Akaishi Ryokan
9,2/10 Exceptional - Based on 584 reviews
Akaishi Ryokan sits on a gentle slope above Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi, offering a compact, traditionally styled stay that emphasizes views and simplicity. The property presents a rooftop terrace and common sitting areas where guests can look toward Mount Fuji and the lakeshore, and the atmosphere is intentionally low-key: modest communal spaces, timber detailing, and tatami-lined corridors shape the overall experience. This small, family-run ryokan functions as a quiet base for exploring nearby parks, shrines and the regional attractions around Mount Fuji.
Facilities focus on classic ryokan comforts rather than luxury amenities. The on-site public thermal baths are fed by natural hot springs and are the primary wellness feature; bathing facilities and toilets are shared rather than en-suite. Practical conveniences include a morning shuttle to the local train station, free on-site parking, a lobby with basic Wi‑Fi and a breakfast service that many guests highlight as a notable part of the stay. Yukata robes and communal bathing etiquette are provided and explained, making the bathing routine accessible for visitors unfamiliar with onsen culture.
Guest rooms are traditionally appointed with tatami flooring and Japanese futon bedding; several rooms offer direct views toward the lake or Mount Fuji, while compact layouts prioritize rest and authenticity over large private bathrooms. With roughly a dozen rooms and attentive, hands-on hosts, the ryokan delivers a personal, unpretentious experience that suits travelers seeking a ryokan with onsen in Yamanashi and a straightforward, culturally rooted stay in Fujikawaguchiko. Its scale and services make it a practical choice for those who value location and local atmosphere over modern hotel trappings.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Akaishi Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Spectacular views of Mount Fuji and the lake
Multiple guests highlight an outstanding view from rooms and the rooftop/terrace overlooking Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi; many spent long time enjoying the vista and found the location scenic and peaceful.
Warm, attentive hosts and helpful service
Reviewers repeatedly praise the owners/staff for being friendly, accommodating and informative—providing clear information, local recommendations, extra help (e.g. calling to arrange pick‑ups) and a morning shuttle to the station.
Excellent traditional Japanese breakfast
The breakfast is frequently described as exceptional, abundant and authentically Japanese; hosts sometimes prepared it earlier to suit guests with early departures.
Comfortable, clean traditional rooms and futons
Guests enjoyed the traditional ryokan experience—spacious tatami rooms, comfortable futons and generally good cleanliness and simple, well‑equipped accommodation.
Pleasant onsen and relaxing traditional atmosphere
Many reviewers appreciated the onsen (described as relaxing, enjoyable and almost private at times) and the overall traditional, calming ambiance of the ryokan.
Negative Reviews
Onsen availability, condition and privacy expectations
A few guests reported issues: the onsen can be older in appearance, occasionally out of service (requiring use of another onsen), and some travelers were surprised by the shared/communal bathing setup rather than private shower cabins.
Signs of wear and minor cleanliness/maintenance issues
Several reviews mention ageing features (tatami or wall marks), and problems with curtains (holes or not fully clean), suggesting some areas need upkeep.
Meal availability discrepancies
At least one guest found that dinner or breakfast was not provided despite expectations from the listing, indicating occasional mismatches between advertised services and what was available.
Access and transport considerations
The property sits on a small slope (not ideal with heavy luggage) and is somewhat distant from the main station for some guests—though the ryokan provides a morning shuttle, visitors should plan transport accordingly.
Local tourism and perceived price
A reviewer noted that the surrounding area can be busy with tourists and there were comments that rates feel a bit high—though many considered the price fair for an authentic ryokan experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with tatami and futon; some rooms can accommodate up to four guests while superior double/twin options suit one or two. Children older than four are charged as adults and cribs or extra beds are not available.
Yes, the property has public hot‑spring baths typically open from 15:00–23:00 and 06:00–09:00. Be aware that guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from public bathing.
Private onsen reservations are not listed and the baths are public. Pets are not allowed at the property.
A free shuttle to/from Kawaguchiko Station is available but must be reserved when booking and you should call the property on arrival; shuttle pickups are generally offered in the late afternoon/evening and the ryokan also runs morning shuttles back to the station.
From Tokyo, most guests take a highway bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko or take trains via Otsuki and the Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko Station, then use the ryokan’s shuttle or a short taxi ride to the property.
Japanese is the primary language, and staff are known to be friendly and helpful; some English is often spoken but ability may be limited, so sending arrival details in writing is recommended.
Check‑in is from 15:00 to 22:00 and check‑out is until 10:00. You should inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance.
Breakfast is offered and highly rated; guests without a meal plan who want breakfast must reserve by 20:00 one day in advance. Dinner is not guaranteed, so plan to dine locally or request options when booking.
Lake Kawaguchi and lakeside parks, Kawaguchi and Fuji Sengen shrines, and Fujikyu Highland amusement park are all a short drive away, with scenic views of Mount Fuji nearby. Walking the lakeside and visiting local parks are popular options.
Convenience stores and a supermarket/Forest Mall area are within a short walk or drive, free on‑site parking is available, and Kawaguchiko Station provides local buses and trains for exploring the Fuji Five Lakes area.