Rakuyu
9,3/10 Exceptional - Based on 1637 reviews
Rakuyu is a hillside lakefront ryokan that looks down over Lake Kawaguchi and frames Mount Fuji from many indoor and outdoor vantage points, presenting a quiet, time-focused atmosphere described on the property’s own pages. The property positions a light-filled lobby with a warming fireplace and a small club lounge alongside rooms that blend Western beds and tatami corners; select suites include an in-room view bath designed for private soaking while other standard rooms offer wide windows and lake views.
Bathing is a central feature: the ryokan’s large scenic public onsen provides a panorama of the lake and surrounding hills, and the property also operates a reservable private bath (booking or a supplementary fee is required for exclusive use). Several room types feature dedicated bathing facilities, including suites with a “view bath” and a separate reservable unit listed as a sky/private bath; public and private bathing options make this an appealing ryokan with onsen in Yamanashi for travelers seeking both communal and intimate hot-spring experiences.
The inn maintains practical services that support local sightseeing: a shuttle links the property with Kawaguchiko station, the hotel sits within a short drive of the area’s major attractions and offers a buffet breakfast plus daylong lounge hospitality that includes tea and evening refreshments. The house policy limits stays to guests aged 13 and over, and staff-present amenities such as parking, free Wi‑Fi in common areas and concierge assistance are highlighted for a calm, service-focused stay in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Rakuyu
Positive Reviews
Stunning lake (and Mt Fuji) views
Many guests praised the panoramic views from rooms and the onsen overlooking the lake, describing the scenery as breathtaking and a major highlight of the stay.
Excellent onsen experience
Reviewers repeatedly mentioned the attractive public baths and available private onsen (for an extra fee), highlighting the relaxing atmosphere, cleanliness and the memorable lakeside setting.
Generous tea time / cocktail & evening buffet included
The hotel’s tea time and evening ‘cocktail’ snack (presented as a substantial buffet) were noted as abundant, high quality and included in the price—many guests found them delicious and great value.
Attentive, professional staff and helpful services
Staff were described as very friendly, professional and helpful (for example assisting at the station or with luggage delivery). Guests appreciated the hospitality and personalized help provided.
Comfortable, spacious and well-kept rooms
Guests found the rooms large, comfortable and very clean, often with lake views. Many also highlighted the overall cleanliness and quality of hotel facilities and food (breakfast and dinner buffets).
Negative Reviews
Hilly location / uphill access
Several guests noted the hotel sits higher up and involves a steep climb from the lake; walking there can be strenuous and many recommend taking the hotel’s shuttle or a taxi.
Private onsen limitations and extra fee
While private onsen is available and enjoyed by guests, it usually requires an additional charge and some reviews mentioned restricted morning access for private baths.
Lounge/club not accessible after checkout
One guest reported they could not use the salon/club area after check‑out while waiting for their train, which was inconvenient for those with late departures.
Limited nearby restaurant choices
A few reviewers mentioned there are few restaurant options immediately nearby, so dining choices outside the hotel are limited without traveling further.
Early breakfast closing and light-blocking curtains
Some guests found breakfast service ends quite early (around 9:00) and noted the room curtains do not fully block morning light, which may disturb light-sensitive sleepers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rakuyu is adult-focused: the minimum check-in age is 18 and children are not accepted; cribs and extra beds are not available. Most room types are designed for one or two adults, with twin and rooms that include a tatami area offered.
Rakuyu has public mineral hot spring baths (separate men’s and women’s areas) and offers reservable private baths for an extra fee. Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
Yes — a complimentary pick-up shuttle operates between Kawaguchiko Station and the property during set hours (typically mid‑afternoon to early evening); guests should call the hotel upon arrival at the station to request it. Advance confirmation of shuttle times is recommended.
From Tokyo you can take the JR Fuji Excursion direct train or transfer via Ōtsuki on the Fujikyuko Line (about 1.5–2 hours), or use an express highway bus from Shinjuku/Tokyo Station (roughly 1.5–2 hours). From airports, travel into central Tokyo then use the train or highway bus connections to Kawaguchiko.
Staff regularly assist international guests and can handle basic-to-moderate English enquiries; booking and tourist information are available in English, though fluency levels can vary. For complex requests it’s helpful to confirm details in writing or via your booking confirmation.
Expect a blend of traditional and modern: some rooms include tatami areas, guests are provided yukata, and communal onsen bathing and lakeside/Mt. Fuji views contribute to a classic ryokan atmosphere with contemporary comforts. The property also offers tea and lounge services that many guests mention.
Rakuyu sits very close to the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway (a few minutes’ walk), is within walking distance of Lake Kawaguchi (around 15–20 minutes), and is a short drive from Fuji-Q Highland and other local sights. The location is convenient for sightseeing around the Kawaguchi lakeside.
Free self-parking is available on site and the property is a short drive or walk from Kawaguchiko Station; taxis and local buses provide easy onward travel. Many guests combine public transport and short taxis to reach nearby attractions.
Standard check-in is from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM and check-out is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM. The front desk has limited hours but the property provides luggage storage; confirm arrival arrangements if you plan to arrive very early or late.
Private baths can be reserved for an additional fee; pets are not permitted on the property. There are cafes, restaurants and convenience stores within walking distance and larger supermarkets a short drive away for basic supplies.