Since we were traveling with a large group, we opted to rent three cars instead. We arranged for a 7-seater and two sedan cars through Tocoo Japan , spanning a rental period of 5 days. We picked up the vehicles from the Shinjuku outlet which is near where our hotel was and planned to return them at the Odawara outlet since we will be staying near there at Hakone. From there, we intended to take the shinkansen from Odawara to Kyoto. The 7-seater rental came to approximately SGD$1000 for the entire 5-day duration.
Expasa Dangozaka (Outbound) Tomei Expressway
Approximate location: Dangozaka, Ashigarakami District, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
We checked out of Hotel Groove Shinjuku at noon and started on our road trip!! With kids and elderly on board, we decided to take a rest stop at Expasa Dangozaka to stretch our legs, grab a snack, and recharge before continuing our journey. The rest area’s serene surroundings and facilities offered the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate, ensuring that everyone remained comfortable and refreshed for the remainder of the trip. The drive from Shinjuku to Expasa Dangozaka took around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken.
Expasa Dangozaka, located along the expressway outbound from Tokyo, serves as a convenient rest area for travelers embarking on longer journeys. It provides a welcome respite from the road, offering various amenities such as restrooms, dining options, and vending machines. As rest areas are situated along highways, they don’t typically have traditional street addresses like buildings or landmarks. Instead, they are identified by their names and locations along the expressway. When traveling, look for signs indicating the exit or entrance to the rest area to ensure you don’t miss it.
Fuefukigawa Fruit Park
Address: 2312 Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko Town Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture 401-0304
Contact: Phone: +81 553-23-4101
The journey from Expasa Dangozaka to Fuefukigawa Fruit Park typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car. This fruit park promised a delightful hands-on experience, allowing visitors to pluck ripe fruits straight from the trees. However, our excitement was dampened when we arrived, only to learn that there were no more strawberries to harvest as the season was over when we arrived in early May. Luckily, the boys were very understanding even though they were disappointed. We should have called ahead to check on the harvesting status.
For Fuefukigawa Fruit Park, , the recommended months for fruit picking can vary depending on the specific fruits grown at the park. However, here is a general guideline:
- Strawberries: December to May
- Cherries: Late May to June
- Blueberries: June to August
- Peaches: Late June to August
- Grapes: Late August to September
These are approximate months, and the exact timing may vary slightly depending on weather conditions and the specific varieties grown at Fuefukigawa Fruit Park.
Check-in – Lake Kawaguchigo Shuhoukaku Kogetsu (逆富士 秀峰閣湖月)
Address: 401-0304, 山梨県南都留郡富士河口湖町河口2312
It was close to 6pm by the time we checked in. Situated on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, Shuhoukaku Kogetsu boasts breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re sipping tea in the garden or relaxing in the soothing waters of the onsen, every moment is accompanied by awe-inspiring vistas.
🏞️ Onsen Oasis: Immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters of the onsen, where relaxation meets panoramic views of Mount Fuji. With both indoor and outdoor baths to choose from, my husband and I took turns enjoying the soothing soak while admiring the breathtaking scenery. Afterward, we indulged in a moment of tranquility at the massage chairs provided in the lounge, melting away any lingering tension.
🌿 Room Retreat: Our spacious room provided the perfect sanctuary for rest and relaxation. With a foot bath at the balcony overlooking the majestic Mount Fuji, even our boys couldn’t resist soaking in the view. We had 3 rooms. The room was thoughtfully designed with two beds, ideal for the elderly members of our group, and the staff kindly prepared futons on the tatami floor for the boys to sleep comfortably. Yukata was provided, even for Hengboi size, allowing us to move around the hotel in traditional style and utmost comfort.
🍽️ Exquisite Dining Experience: As part of our room charge, we were treated to a sumptuous dinner – kaiseki (or japanese fine dining) menu each evening. With the option to dine in the comfort of our room or gather together in a private dining room, the hotel accommodated our group of 10 with gracious hospitality and impeccable service. Each meal was a culinary delight, featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors.
Breakfast was also provided as part of the room charges and the view of Mt Fuji from the breakfast area was just unbeatable.
✨ Personalized Service: Throughout our stay, the staff at Shuhoukaku Kogetsu went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction. From arranging dining reservations to providing recommendations for local attractions, their attention to detail and warm hospitality made our experience truly memorable.
