Ubuya Hotel is a tranquil ryokan that’s nestled on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi with sweeping views of Mount Fuji.
Name
Ubuya
Location
Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Kawaguchi, Ubuya is a luxurious retreat offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Located in Fujikawaguchiko, it’s the perfect base for those looking to soak in the natural beauty of Japan’s iconic mountain while enjoying a tranquil, high-end stay.
The hotel is conveniently accessible by car or train, with nearby attractions including the Kachi Kachi Ropeway and the Kawaguchiko Music Forest. I ended up taking a taxi from Kawaguchiko Station 河口湖駅 and it only took 10 minutes. There is a complimentary shuttle bus that takes guests to nearby attractions but only operates during the morning.
Booking the Ubuya Hotel Lake Kawaguchi
The standard room set us back a hefty 90,200 JPY and included dinner for 1 night and breakfast the next day. We booked through directly through Ubuya’s website.
Check in at the Ubuya Hotel Lake Kawaguchi
Check in was a pleasant experience as we were seated for the process and also provided green tea and hot towels (oshibori). The staff member carefully explained the hotel amenities and policies in English and provided us with an information sheet.
Room
The signature feature of Ubuya Hotel is that every room has a view of Mount Fuji.
And our room, 315, had a breathtaking view of landmark. The room is a spacious 59 square meters and has been tastefully designed.
As you enter the room, you step into the genkan where you take of your shoes as they are not allowed in the room. Nearby is a counter with complimentary snacks and water, as well as the wardrobe. You also have the toilet located nearby, which is common in Japanese rooms, where the bathroom and toilet are separated.
We opted for western beds, which were comfortable and clean.
The living room is lined with tatami and features a couch and TV.
At the very end of the room is the outdoor balcony, where the open air bath is located. Soaking in the bath while staring at Mount Fuji was definitely a core memory.
Conveniently the bathroom is located next to the balcony. There’s dual sinks, a shower and plenty of storage.
Amenities were from a Japanese brand and smelled pleasant.
Dining at the Ubuya Hotel Lake Kawaguchi
Guests are served dinner at one of the two restaurants, as we were staying in the East building we were allocated to the IWAI restaurant on level 2. At check in we were given several time slots for dinner and picked 6:00 pm.
For dinner, we were served a full sukiyaki feast starting appetisers and sashimi. The wagyu and pork slices melted in my mouth.
The dessert of ice cream, mochi, and fruit was the perfect ending.
Breakfast was served in the same location but this time we could see stunning Mount Fuji reflected on to Lake Kawaguchi. The traditional Japanese breakfast is a delicious meal, I love that the fluffy rice is served in it’s own pot.
Facilities at the Ubuya Hotel Lake Kawaguchi
Arguably the most impressive facility at the Ubuya hotel is the onsen hot springs that has sweeping views of Mount Fuji. It’s open from 3:00 pm until midnight and in the morning from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Soaking in the onsen while gazing at Mount Fuji through the floor to glass windows was a divine and rejuvenating experience.
There’s also a sauna, spa, ping pong tables, souvenir shop, massage chairs, and a lounge with free drinks.
We also partook in a complimentary experience of making our own matcha.
Service at the Ubuya Hotel Lake Kawaguchi
Guests staying at the Ubuya truly experience omotenashi, every staff member I encountered was polite and attentive.
One particular interaction left an impression with me.
After dinner, I heard a knock at the door and two staff members were standing there. The younger of the two proceeded to explain in English that I had been served the incorrect cut of meat and the hotel owner, standing next to her, wanted to apologise in person. Both of them did so and let me know that they would removing the cost of the dinner from my bill.
Earning and spending points at the Ubuya Hotel Lake Kawaguchi
Ubuya is not part of any hotel programs so earning points isn’t possible.
Verdict
The stunning Mount Fuji views, excellent service, and delicious dining makes Ubuya not just one of the best hotels in Fujikawaguchiko but in Japan.
Also read: My Japan travels
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