Kai Funagata Shrine Hotels

"Beautiful views with amazing hospitality. Family run and the owner is quite involved and very kind, he chatted with us three times during our one night stay (check in/out and restaurant). Grandchildren playing and helping out gives this hotel a wonderful homey summer camp feel, as do the available amenities (table tennis, rooftop views, indoor + outdoor onsens) and watercraft rentals (saw paddleboards and kayaks). We stayed the night before climbing Fuji and found the rooms to be very spacious and the food filling. Note that restaurants/activities outside the hotel are limited as this area is remote. Bus access direct to the hotel is very convenient, although the bus ride can be long depending where you come from. We were greeted immediately upon bus arrival and helped to check in and out to catch the morning bus by wonderful staff and owners. Hotel is stair-based, not wheelchair friendly, was fine with us but important to know. Very foreigner friendly (have reasonable expectations as guests). For foreign tourists, a few notes: Shoji Lake is a very remote, mountainous area. Bugs exist. Japan does not do pest control (killing) in the way Americans are used to--if you're not prepared for that, perhaps stick to the cities. You need to take the bus to get here, it is a long ride from Shin-Fuji etc. and you must have cash or IC card. The bus only runs a few times a day, PLAN AHEAD. This experience was wonderful for us and well worth the trip!"

"The breakfast included was pretty handy, specially if you are climbing Fuji san and have no time to waste in the morning. It was a japanese style, so no bread. The food was delicious. The room itself was small but very tidy and clean. Good range of personal care items available close to the front desk."

"Fuji view, close to fuji q highland. Onsen included."

"Food is always fresh with local ingredients. Never fails to impress us. "

"The staff are exceptional : genuine and respectful. The staff welcomes us every year when we return. After we climb the Mt Fuji and unable to walk further from our car to the main door, the staff will greet us from afar and help us with the luggage’s, not for tips but for their professionalism and values they cherish much. "

"I had the incredible chance to stay at the world’s oldest hotel, and it genuinely lived up to its legend. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was stepping into a different era — not in a museum-like way, but in a quiet, living continuation of tradition. The surroundings are stunning: mountains, rivers, pure silence. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and just be. The hot springs were a highlight — natural, healing, and beautifully maintained. I left feeling physically and mentally reset. Meals were exceptional — local, seasonal, prepared with real care and balance. You can tell this isn’t just hospitality, it’s heritage passed down through generations. The staff were some of the kindest and most thoughtful people I’ve ever met. Discreet but always there when needed, with a level of attention that feels almost forgotten in today’s world. It’s more than a hotel — it’s an experience of Japanese culture, stillness, and deep respect for nature. I honestly hope my descendants can visit this place another 1,300 years from now. It’s worth preserving forever."

"we are 2 but there is only 1 pillow in the room and no free tooth brush but over all the stay is good. "

"This place was the highlight of our trip. The grounds and place is picturesque and the service amazing. Would love to go back here again"

"I booked this hotel because I've stayed in Dormy Inns before and because I wanted a hotel with an onsen. The room suited my needs, and the onsen was very enjoyable. The staff were professional and helpful. The room was clean. The bed was comfortable. It was a pleasant stay. An extra bonus was an excellent vegan restaurant, Fluunt Kofu, just a few doors down from the hotel. Highly recommended."