Hotel Koryu
8,6/10 Excellent - Based on 2045 reviews
Hotel Koryu sits on the lakeside of Kawaguchiko, combining traditional Japanese rooms and Western-style twin rooms with lake-facing vistas and occasional sunset views. Rooms range from compact tatami-only layouts to larger Japanese–Western suites and a selection of rooms that include a private open-air bath directly overlooking Lake Kawaguchi. The property presents itself as a ryokan with onsen Kawaguchiko, where low furniture, yukata robes and floor-to-ceiling windows are used to frame the scenery and create a measured, restorative atmosphere for solo travellers, couples and families.
The bathing facilities are central to the experience: large indoor public baths paired with a garden rock bath and an open-air bath that looks toward the Southern Alps and the lake, each set to roughly 15:00–24:00 and 05:30–09:30 for scheduled use. A rentable private bath is available by reservation in the late afternoon and evening with booked 45-minute slots; advance booking is required for private use. Bathing areas are designed to accommodate different needs—soaking, walking-bath features and an outdoor terrace-style pool—while staff provide clear guidance on bathing etiquette and reservation procedures.
Dining has shifted to a buffet-style format for guests on plans that include meals, with a wide selection of hot and cold dishes and beverage service during meal periods. Practical amenities include a free shuttle service from the nearby train station, on-site parking, free Wi‑Fi in public areas, a 24-hour front desk and accessible room options. Located within easy reach of local attractions such as the panoramic ropeway, amusement park and lakeside walks, the property functions as a convenient ryokan with private onsen Yamanashi base for exploring the Fuji‑Kawaguchiko area.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hotel Koryu
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen and bathing options
Guests praise the large, clean onsen facilities: indoor and multiple outdoor baths (including ones with lake views), private outdoor onsen options, and tattoo‑friendly access.
Authentic traditional ryokan experience
Many reviews highlight the traditional atmosphere—tatami floors, futon bedding, yukata provided—which creates a strong immersion in Japanese style and charm.
Food, snacks and refreshments
Buffet dinner and breakfast are frequently described as varied and very good with local specialties; the hotel also offers free snacks at check‑in and drinks/snacks available for guests.
Attentive staff and useful services
Staff are repeatedly described as friendly and helpful. Useful services mentioned include a free shuttle to the station, parking, bike rental, and English‑friendly staff.
Great location and lake views
The hotel’s setting on the lake provides superb views and easy walks along the shore; it’s conveniently located for the ropeway and within walking distance or shuttle distance of the station.
Negative Reviews
Some areas and decor feel dated
Several guests noted worn or tired corridors and walls and that some parts of the property could use refreshing, even if this adds to the traditional feel for others.
Futon and bedding comfort varies
A number of reviewers found the futons thin or firmer than expected, which some guests found uncomfortable.
Bathroom size/layout and dated fittings
A few guests mentioned small or somewhat outdated bathrooms (e.g. sink positioned in the room entrance) and cramped shower areas in some rooms.
Onsen changing logistics and occasional noise
One review noted the changing area for the private onsen is located in a different room which can be inconvenient; another reported the women's indoor onsen area being noisy at times.
Perceived value for price / breakfast cost
At least one guest felt the overall décor and offerings did not fully match the price paid, and one mentioned the breakfast felt a bit expensive despite being well stocked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms include Western twins, Japanese tatami and mixed styles; some rooms sleep up to five guests, making the hotel suitable for couples, families and small groups.
The hotel has multiple public hot-spring baths including outdoor baths and garden baths, generally open 15:00–24:00 and 05:30–09:30; a private bath is available by reservation in the afternoon and evening.
Yes — a private bath can be reserved in advance for a set time slot in the afternoon/evening; please contact the hotel to book your preferred time.
Yes — the hotel offers a free shuttle between Kawaguchiko Station and the hotel; shuttle pickup must be requested in advance and there are set operating hours, so inform the hotel of your arrival time.
Most guests travel from Haneda or Narita by train or highway/express bus to Kawaguchiko or Shinjuku, then continue to Kawaguchiko Station and use the hotel shuttle or a short taxi ride to the hotel.
The hotel provides English-language information on its site and front-desk staff assist international guests; the website and materials are also available in multiple Asian languages.
You can stay in tatami rooms and wear yukata, sleep on futon in Japanese-style rooms, enjoy public and outdoor onsen, and use amenities such as the buffet restaurant and leisure facilities like a manga library and family activities.
The hotel sits on Lake Kawaguchiko and is a short walk to the lakeside; nearby attractions include Fujikyu Highland, museums and Mt. Fuji viewpoints accessible by local bus, taxi or a short drive.
Check‑in generally begins at 3:00 PM (until early evening) and check‑out is by 10:00 AM, with early-morning departures supported at specified times.
The hotel has on-site restaurants serving breakfast and dinner buffet options, and convenience stores and shops are within easy reach near the lakeside and Kawaguchiko Station; pet policies vary, so please contact the hotel directly to confirm.