8 hotels and glamping sites in Kawaguchiko with the best Mt Fuji views

Hoshinoya Fuji offers a unique glamping experience that few of Japan's most exquisite hotels can match. The property's geometric cabins are nestled in the pine-draped mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture, overlooking Lake Kawaguchiko, thus providing you with a stunning, unobstructed view of Japan's sacred mountain. This exceptional retreat elevates the concept of glamping, providing the ultimate digital detox in nature. 

You can choose between indulging in picnic baskets on your private balcony while gazing out at Mt Fuji, participating in outdoor wood-fired pizza workshops, or savouring a feast of local game including wild boar and venison. Beyond the cabins, you can explore the surrounding scenic mountains, go on guided trekking trips, embark on early morning canoeing on Lake Kawaguchi, or bicycle along the lake's shores.

The rooms at The Garden Resort have clean, bare walls and no extra furnishings save for the white beds and a few grey cushions, but that's not to say they're bland by any standards. As soon as you step through the door, Mt Fuji, in all its majesty, commands your attention, visible through the expansive floor-to-ceiling window that graces every room.

Although the hotel itself is small, its optimal location unlocks a world of excitement and adventure. Firstly, it's within walking distance from Kawaguchiko Station. Plus, a short six-minute drive will land you at Fuji-Q Highland, one of the most renowned theme parks in Japan and home to record-breaking rides such as the adrenaline-pumping Dodonpa, which holds the world title as the roller coaster with the fastest launch acceleration.

After an adrenaline-filled day, unwind at Hotou Fudo, a charming local eatery conveniently located near Kawaguchiko Station. This popular eatery is famous for its heart-warming pots of miso vegetable stew, filled with soft, chewy udon noodles – the perfect local delicacy to refuel and relax after a day of adventure.

Designed as an ultra-luxe retreat, Fufu Kawaguchiko offers a truly sumptuous experience, with 32 lavishly furnished suites that boast unparalleled vistas of the majestic Mt Fuji and the sparkling waters of Lake Kawaguchiko.

Each suite has its own private open-air hot spring bath lined with volcanic rock, where you can enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery that surrounds the grounds. During the colder winter months, stay warm and comfortable with heated floors and a personal bioethanol hearth while taking in the crystal-clear panorama made possible by the dry air.

Another standout gem is Ubuya, where the rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated with traditional Japanese elements such as tatami mats and shoji screens. The hot springs here feature naturally sourced mildly alkaline water known for its healing properties and ability to soothe tired muscles. Some of the suites come with their own private outdoor baths, allowing you to soak in the warm waters while taking in the breathtaking scenery. 

In addition to its picturesque surroundings, Hotel Ubuya also boasts a variety of amenities to enhance your stay, including a fine dining restaurant serving up local cuisine, a relaxing spa, and a table tennis room for some family-friendly fun.

For a quintessential ryokan experience, head to Hotel Konansou on the shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, where you’ll find a haven of serenity and relaxation. This traditional onsen hotel offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, which can be enjoyed from the comfort of your room or from the hotel's outdoor hot spring baths.

Konansou features a variety of rooms, ranging from traditional Japanese-style abodes with tatami floors and futon bedding to modern Western-style rooms with plush beds and contemporary amenities. In addition to its world-class hot springs, Konansou also offers in-room kaiseki dining with an extensive selection of sake. 

Take a trip to Yamanashi and enjoy the natural scenery that surrounds Japan’s favourite volcano, Mt Fuji. The grounds at Pica Fujiyama are an ideal spot for ambitious climbers: it’s just a half-hour drive or 40-minute train ride to the volcano’s fifth station, which is the highest starting point for ascending the mountain on foot. However, the stunning scenes of Lake Kawaguchiko and the secluded environment make it a worthwhile destination even outside of the climbing season.

With all this space, paragliding courses are an option for adrenaline junkies. There are also kayaking, glass blowing, cooking classes and pottery classes for visitors who prefer something slower paced.

Located in the stunning open plains of Oishi, Dot Glamping Fujiyama is the perfect destination for travellers seeking a unique and luxurious outdoor experience. This contemporary campsite features a range of accommodations, from spacious tents equipped with modern comforts to cosy cabins with panoramic views of the surrounding natural beauty.

At Dot Glamping Fujiyama, you can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking and fishing. The campsite also features a communal lounge complete with a fireplace, providing the perfect place to unwind and relax after a day of outdoor adventure. In the morning, you can wake up to the breathtaking sight of Japan's iconic peak, and watch as the sun sets behind the mountains in the evening.

Looking to reconnect with both nature and your nearest and dearest? Then a stay at Glamping Villa Hanz could be in order. Nestled between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Lake Kawaguchiko – the most scenic and accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes – this gorgeous site has been welcoming guests since 2020.

There are three different accommodation options – ‘paos’ (dome tents), open-plan villas, and a 100-year-old five-bedroom guest house. The paos get you closest to the great outdoors. Each sleeps up to four people and comes with its own private outdoor kitchen and a large shower room complete with Japanese-style toilet. With no on-site restaurant, you pick your food box from a menu and then barbecue the contents yourself under the stars – lessons are available for those looking to master the art of Japanese grilling.

The activities – including bike riding, archery, forest walks and unforgettable canoe trips on Lake Kawaguchiko – will get the heart racing before a relaxing session in the onsite onsens or barrel sauna. And if at any point you want your breath taken away just look up – the spectacular views of Mt Fuji can’t be bettered.