Hotel Kaminoyu Onsen
6,7/10 Good - Based on 86 reviews
Hotel Kaminoyu Onsen sits on the hills above Kai in Yamanashi, presented as a traditional-style ryokan with onsen Yamanashi, offering a mix of tatami Japanese rooms and a small selection of Western-style rooms. Guest accommodation ranges from compact single western rooms to Japanese-style rooms prepared with futon bedding, and many rooms are positioned to frame views of Mount Fuji or the Kofu basin. Practical amenities include complimentary on-site parking, free Wi‑Fi throughout the property, air conditioning, and a shuttle service from the nearest JR station; a 24-hour front desk assists with sightseeing arrangements and local transfers.
Onsen facilities are a principal feature at this ryokan with private onsen Yamanashi: the property operates its own sodium‑chloride source spring and channels the water into eleven distinct bathing areas, from a panorama-facing open-air bath with Fuji views to a variety of indoor pools such as bubble, cascade and reclining baths. Guests can also reserve several private family/kashikiri baths with different atmospheres—including an egg-shaped steam/stone set, a large barrel bath and a cave-style bath—reservations are handled at the front desk and some stay plans include a complimentary reserved session; note that public bathing areas may enforce restrictions for tattooed guests.
Dining focuses on regional produce and seasonal menus: multi-course kaiseki and creative set meals make use of Yamanashi specialties such as Koshu wine beef, local pork and fresh mountain and river fish, with options for in-room service or private dining on many plans. The property accommodates families and groups with banquet facilities and family-friendly plans, provides yukata and selected accessible features in public spaces, and offers spa and massage services; standard ryokan routines apply, with mid-afternoon check-in and mid-morning check-out and staff support for winery visits, fruit-picking and nearby sightseeing.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hotel Kaminoyu Onsen
Positive Reviews
Authentic onsen experience
Multiple guests praised the traditional hot-spring baths—spacious public baths, relaxing warm water and well‑enjoyed bathing facilities that felt authentically Japanese.
Variety of baths and scenic views
Reviewers highlighted many bathing options including open-air/rooftop baths and private-use tubs; some rooms and baths offer clear views of Mount Fuji, which guests found memorable.
Good food and generous portions
Several guests described the meals (dinner and breakfast) as very tasty, with generous portions and highlights like kamameshi and tender meat.
Friendly/helpful staff and shuttle service
Many reviewers noted polite, helpful staff—including managers who offered train pickup and a shuttle to the station—making arrivals and departures easier for some guests.
Spacious rooms with pleasant sitting areas
A number of guests appreciated larger Japanese‑style rooms or rooms with sitting areas and good views, providing a comfortable stay.
Negative Reviews
Aging property and maintenance needs
Multiple comments mention the building and furniture looking worn or run‑down; guests suggested better upkeep or updates to improve overall comfort.
Cleanliness and room condition issues
Some guests reported cleanliness problems such as stained or frayed futons and other unclean areas, making stays less comfortable for those visitors.
Communication and language problems
Several reviewers experienced unclear communication—staff not always speaking English, inconsistent front‑desk instructions, and cases of confusion over charges (e.g., breakfast or paid services).
Location and transport/restaurant limitations
Guests noted the ryokan is remote with few nearby restaurants, requires prearranged meals or taxis to stations, and occasional shuttle timing/miscommunication led to waiting in cold.
Room amenities and bath availability constraints
Some rooms lack en‑suite toilets/showers (futons rather than beds can be difficult for elderly), the private/featured Fuji baths are small and usable only by one party at a time, and breakfast variety was sometimes considered limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan offers Japanese-style rooms (futon bedding) and twin rooms; room types accommodate singles up to groups of four—confirm exact occupancy when booking.
Yes — the property has a hot spring with indoor and open-air baths and public bathing facilities; basic toiletries are provided and towels are available at the bathing area.
Private baths are available and can be reserved; contact the hotel reception to arrange reservations and availability.
A free shuttle runs from JR Ryuo Station (reservation required) during the afternoon/evening window; there is no regular airport shuttle—reach Ryuo by train then use the hotel shuttle or a short taxi ride.
Check-in is from 15:00 (3:00 PM) until the stated check-in cut-off and check-out is by 10:00; guests with dinner included should notify the hotel if arriving late.
Breakfast is served at the property; dinner options may be offered as part of certain bookings—confirm meal plans at reservation time.
Children are welcome but you should indicate ages and bedding needs when booking; pets are not allowed on the property.
Japanese is the primary language; some staff may speak basic English, so contact the hotel in advance if you require specific language assistance.
The ryokan is within driving distance of attractions such as Lake Kawaguchi and Fuji-Q Highland; local sightseeing is easiest by car, train to Ryuo plus taxi, or arranged tours.
There are convenience stores and shops a short trip toward JR Ryuo Station or by a brief drive; plan for late arrivals as nearby shops may close in the evening.