Best hotel I have ever stayed in”

I am a cheap person so I have never spent more than $120 on a hotel room, ever! Because of this, I was very hesitant when deciding whether I wanted to book at this hotel. Even if it was the cheapest room at this hotel, it was more than twice what I am used to. However, what drew me in were the good reviews, the garden, and the three onsens. Now that I am back home after my 11-day trip all over Japan, I have come to realize that my best experience, best memories, and my most beautiful photos are from Hotel Kaneyamaen! Even though we only spent 1 measly night here, we experienced so many wonderful things. I realized that despite the high price, it was definitely worth it! 1. Free breakfast and dinner. Wow, the dinner was a 2-hour experience with so many courses! 2. Free drum show and game of bingo in the evening. 3. Access to three different onsens. The best one is the one on the roof with a view of Mt. Fuji. 4. The most beautiful garden I have ever walked through. I still have no idea how big this garden is; it kept going and going. We crossed a bridge over a river. We hiked up a hill to viewpoint where you can see Mt. Fuji. I think the garden keeps going, but after spending 2 hours exploring and taking photos, we had to get ready for our dinner reservations. We did return the next morning before checking out, but I saw signs that kept pointing further so I don't even think we saw the entire garden. 5. Free tea ceremony in a beautiful room within the garden. 6. Free sample of some drink in another beautiful room within the garden (sake possibly, but I remember being told it was not alcoholic). 7. Free shuttle pick up and drop off. 8. Friendly staff throughout the hotel. They grabbed our bags/luggage the second we got off the shuttle. One staff guided us to our room and made us sit down while she made us tea. While we sipped on the tea, she gave us a map of the hotel and explained the hours and directions to the onsens, our dinner reservation, etc. It was

Japanese hospitality at its finest ”

Our stay at Hotel Kaneyamaen was unbelievable. A true example of Omotenashi(selfless service), with such kind staff that basically anticipated our every desire and movement around the hotel. The facilities and decor were top-notch, somewhat resembling a traditional Ryokan but with modern finishes. The grounds outside were even more spectacular. We enjoyed walking around the rock gardens, koi ponds, the rushing river and the serene tea houses and private bathhouses. I should mention that the onsen here was one of the nicest I have ever seen...but were no comparison to the absolutely beautiful private wooden bath that we enjoyed on our bathroom balcony. It had a direct view of Mt. Fuji; so good that we felt we didn't need to explore any better vantage point. Every time the clouds cleared from Fujisan, we hopped in the bath to soak in the view. Honestly, could I have afforded to stay longer at Kaneyamaen I definitely would have but the price bit my wallet a bit! Still worth every penny

Amazing Experience”

Hotel Kaneyamaen is the best place I have ever stayed at. The private onsen in my room was awesome and so relaxing. The staff was so nice and accommodating. There is a tea ceremony in the garden in the day before 6 PM, which was short and delicious. The Japanese garden in the hotel is enormous and beautiful! Lots of opportunities to take great photos. The dinner was held in our room and was so delicious. The Taiko drum show and bingo was a fun way to entertain guests. The breakfast is held in a buffet style and was very impressive and delicious. I wish I could stay here every time I come back to Japan. Tip: If you are coming from Tokyo, please contact the hotel ahead of time to get on a shuttle at Mt. Fuji station. We made the mistake of not doing that and ended up taking a bus and walking quite a bit from Mt. Fuji station.

Amazing ”

Hotel Kaneyamaen is a truly amazing experience, located at the base of Mt. Fuji. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left , we were given the best service and hospitality. The hotel is beautiful , with unbelievable gardens right on the hotel grounds. We had a garden view room with an an onsen in our room (I have a tattoo so was not able to use the regular rooftop Onsen). Well worth the money, and great to be able to get in our own private onsen anytime. The room was beautiful and spacious, a luxurious Ryokan style room. We got the Kaiseki dinner plan, and had two world class multicourse dinners. The breakfast that was included was the most amazing breakfast as well.. with both western and traditional Japanese dishes all made fresh. Definitely a once in a life-time experience. There was a little bit of a language barrier, but it was more then made up for with hospitality and willingness to assist. A must stay if you are in the Fuji area.

A pleasant memory of experiencing the Japanese Culture ”

We were welcome abroad by a team of 4 members who helped us to bring our luggage to our room, provided brief information regarding the hotel facilities, the meal plans, and showed us to our room as well. During our stay, most of the hotel staff were friendly and helpful., especially the senior waitress at the Harmony Hall, and the stylist, who helped us to dress up the kimono. Most of our meals were served in Kaiseki cuisine, which were sensational and scrumptious. Most amentities were sufficient with good quality, except the bristles of the tooth brush were relatively stiff. Most facilities in the hotel were at good quality, especially the beautiful garden and the gorgeous view of My. Fuji. The housekeeping was fine, and the room was neat and tidy. Nevertheless, it would be better to enhance the pests control in preventing the big ants from crawling into the room. Above all, we are willing to choose this hotel as our first priority once we re-visit the Fujiyoshida next time.

Honeymoon retreat away”

Absolutely beautiful hotel resort tucked away with a view of Mt. Fuji. The staff were absolutely wonderful and made our stay extremely welcomed. Kaiseki dinner's were stunning and delicious, beautifully presented and melt in your mouth delicious local beef. The multiple onsens were fabulous and our private one made it so much more special. Love the massive size of our room and the sofa bed up against the window so we could look out directly at Mr. Fuji. The Japanese garden is a must to take a stroll through with the foot onsen as a bonus. The Taisho drum & firework show was also great. Just note - if you dont bring lunch or go out during the day, then there isnt many options for food unless you cross the road to the local Udon shop which has fantastic hospitality too and isnt too expensive. The staff at Hotel Kaneyamaen really made us feel welcomed and special.

Well worth the money for a once-in-a-lifetime experience”

We felt like royalty from the moment we stepped into Hotel Kaneyamaen. The grounds were beautifully kept, and the service was impeccable. We were able to call the hotel through a payphone at the Mt. Fuji station for the shuttle pick-up. The day we arrived the rooftop onsen was reserved for women only, so I was able to watch the sunset with an unforgettable view of Mt. Fuji. We felt very lucky we were able to see Mt. Fuji on a clear day (early April visit). Make sure you are familiar with onsen etiquette, as some staff members that attend the onsens are not as fluent in English as the front desk. The next day was reserved for men, and we surprisingly woke up to snow! We also had a private onsen in our room, and the view was truly breathtaking. Of course, the weather will be variable during your visit, but the gardens and activities provided (taiko show/bingo) kept us engaged but still feeling very relaxed. The kanseiki meal and breakfast buffet was delicious!

Nice big onsen hotel !~ ”

Location is a little far from town but since we rent a car, it's okay for my family. Hotel is big with beautiful garden & a chapel. The matcha tea ceremony is quite unique. There's 3 onsens and the roof onsen has a beautiful view of Mt Fuji. We booked a room with private garden onsen and like it a lot. Kids had the modern Japanese room and futon is comfortable. Drum show is interesting follow by bingo games. I stayed at hotel Konansou the second night and I want to say that Hotel Kaneyamaen is way better. So the money is definitely worth it. Staff is very friendly and speak good English.

Exceptional”

Stayed two nights for my honeymoon in mid May, stayed in one of the Yamabiko-Tei rooms with private bath, garden view. The experience is overall fantastic. Service, facilities, presentation of building interior, cleanliness, friendliness are faultless. Needing special mention are the gardens outside - they were simply magnificent during that time of the year with the yellow and red leaves. We were also impressed with the Kaiseki dinners. And managed to catch the peak of Mount Fuji (requires you to wake up before 8am though). The only thing to note is the location. It was in Fujiyoshida rather in Kawaguchiko (neighbouring towns, so it's not too big a deal). The location is 10mins drive from the nearest train/bus station (Mt Fuji). They provide a free shuttle service every 30mins to either Mt Fuji station or Kawaguchiko station - which we used to visit Kawaguchiko town.

Amazing experience. Breathtaking view from rooftop onsen. ”

Upon arrival to Hotel Kaneyamaen, we were greeted by staff who were extremely helpful. Shown to our room, explained where all facilities were located, including dinner and breakfast restaurants. Lovely Japanese Garden on-site. All public onsens were well maintained and clean. Absolutely would recommend to future travellers, rooftop onsen with Fuji View was something which can only be experienced, words cannot describe how amazing this view is.

Amazing hotel! A must when in Mt Fuji”

We travelled as a couple to mt Fuji and stayed at Kaneyamaen. It was simply wonderful. The staff were incredibly lovely and hospitable, and we're very kind to two western travellers in a very traditionally Japanese hotel. The food was to die for, stunning taste and presentation, 10/10. The onsen there were fantastic. Very beautiful and clean, with clear instructions for westerners. We had a wonderful time and will definitely be coming back.

Ryokan offering serenity and quality experiences under Mt Fuji”

Kaneyamaen is a plush Japanese Ryokan in a serene and tranquil environment located near Mount Fuji. The hot springs offer an escape from other-world issues, enjoyed in their large spa, in a smaller high-level spa, or privately in rooms with views towards Mt Fuji. Their quality and ingenious Japanese cuisine, together with stunning Japanese garden make this a very special stay.

Japanese Luxury”

Hotel Kaneyamaen never failed to amaze us. Everything was topnotch, staff, the room was great with its own private onsen bath and view of Mt. Fuji, mouth watering and deinitely master chef quality dinner and excellent service and experience! Would definitely come back if given the chance.

By far the the greatest place i have ever stayed”

The hotel, hotel staff, and dinner were amazing. The grounds were flawless. The view of Mt Fuji from our room and from the 10th floor hot springs were breathtaking. If it wasn't for the 6000 mile flight from the US I would make Hotel Kaneyamaen my go to place every week-end.

Be Surprised”

We do not normally splurge on accommodation but since we planned our vacation on short notice we went with Hotel Kaneyamaen. Absolutely no regrets. In fact we were pleasantly surprised, and believe us we are not easily surprised. There is no superlative to describe our stay except to say simply, we enjoyed our 3-night stay which tops the many years of our travels.

Fantastic hotel with stunning views of Mount Fuji”

Although the hotel is located in a rather grim, industrial-ish city (this is really the only negative aspect) once you enter its premises it's a whole different thing. Mount Fuji is incredibly close and can be perfectly viewed from many spots around the hotel, be it from guest rooms, the female outdoor onsen or the onsen located on the 10th floor. Service is impeccable; they offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the hotel to Fujisan and Kawaguchiko Stations, they welcome you with tea and sweets and make you feel at home with their hospitality. The breakfast buffet is plentiful and offers alternatives for both Western and Japanese tastes. Dinner is beautifully served and delicious; moreover, being a full course meal, it allows you to try many local specialties. We stayed at a room with a private hot spring bath with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, which was absolutely worth it because it allows couples to have some privacy without the need of reserving private baths (which don't have the views I mentioned). Perhaps some facilities are a bit "old-school" and could be updated, and some of the furniture in the rooms show minor signs of wear and tear (however, the cleanliness of the rooms is superb). They also do not offer lunch to their guests (although one may take the shuttle that runs every half hour into Fujisan or Kawaguchiko). But the positive aspects fully compensate these minor flaws; all in all, an amazing experience I would fully recommend to anyone wishing to splurge in top-notch accomodation combining traditional Japanese lodgings' characteristics with all the ammenities and services of a 5-star hotel.

We love Kaneyamaen!”

Wow....this was our fanciest hotel we've ever stayed at. You are greeted like royalty when you arrive and ushered to your room where you are provided with yukata to wear around the grounds, & they make tea for you in the room as a welcome gift. Every day they leave you a new sweet to try in your room with your tea, and all of the sweets they serve are available for purchase in their gift shop. The grounds are gorgeous, even when covered in snow, and there's lots to explore---matcha tea house, another house where they serve a warm rice drink, cafe that serves drinks and cakes, spa...and much more we didn't have time to see. We had little reason to ever leave the hotel and spent our whole trip relaxing on site! The only thing that was lacking was nowhere to really grab lunch at the hotel...but the breakfast buffet has tons of food and the dinners there are probably about 10 courses, so you can get by with just snacking throughout the day to leave room for the huge dinner that awaits you. We definitely had the fanciest dinners of our life here. For us the dinner had a lot of unusual tastes we weren't used to, but given the incredible presentation and care that went into each course, we were thrilled to have the chance to try everything just the same. The drum show + bingo was a super fun experience, and the onsen was amazing. Our room was very comfortable with a great view of Fuji-san. We loved our time here.

Unforgettable!”

As part of our 10 days in Japan, we decided to spend 2 nights at a ryokan. We picked this property after reading good reviews on Reddit, and seeing pictures of the Mt Fuji view. The service in this place is truly phenomenal. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel like a special guest. They even arranged for the hotel shuttle to take us into town on the full day that we were there to eat lunch, with no added charge. The kaiseki meals were experimental and high-end, the rooms were beautiful (and our room had a private onsen that was amazing to spend time in as a couple), and the gardens were huge and breathtaking. I couldn't stop marveling at the views. If it's a clear day, Mt Fuji towers right in front of you the whole time. A stay here might seem expensive, but you get 2 good meals a day for 2 people, so it really feels like you got your money's worth. The 2 nights we spent were a perfect stay-cation to wind down after spending 4 days walking ~30k steps in Tokyo.

Awesome stay, definitely recommended”

My Husband and myself stayed a night at the hotel as I wanted to experience personal onsen whilst viewing Mount Fuji. The hotel shuttle arrived very fast upon contacting the hotel. The staff were there to welcome us, and check-in was a breeze. We were brought around to the various facilities so we knew where to go when needed. The room was marvellous with great amenities. The private onsen was indeed facing Mount Fuji and we would have our private moment admiring it, at our own pace and decided timing. Dinner was awesome. We felt like Super-VIPs with the treatment they provided us. There was drum-shows, bingo and piano recital for guests who prefers to explore the hotel. Although it was quite a distance from fujisan station to the hotel, the hotel shuttle made it so much more convenient- for overseas guests who do not have a phone line, you can just phone the hotel via pay phone directly outside the station. Overall, if I’m planning another trip to Japan, I would definitely come back to this hotel for a day or two to enjoy Mount Fuji and the onsen. Cheers.

Beyond my Expectations”

I will definitely visit again when I got to Japan! Loved everything about the Kaneyamaen.