This was my first time visiting Mount Fuji, and I decided to experience a traditional guesthouse. I chose one closer to Fuji, in Lake Yamanaka.
Transportation: Very convenient, whether by bus or train. On the way there, I took the Fujikaiyu from Shinjuku, spent some time in Kawaguchiko, then checked the schedule and took either the A1 or F1 bus to the entrance of Hana no Miyako Park, a 3-minute walk away. For the return trip, I took the highway bus from Yamanakako Station (I bought tickets in advance, choosing the Japanese option to get this stop).
Environment: Lake Yamanaka is incredibly peaceful, with very few tourists. We stayed in room 202, which offered a view of Mount Fuji. Although the room didn't have a private bathroom, the shared onsen (hot spring) and shower facilities felt much more authentic! They were very clean, and the hot spring was wonderfully relaxing! Just note that the onsen closes at 10 PM.
Food: Supermarkets, convenience stores, and 100-yen shops are all within a 10-minute walk.
Scenery: The guesthouse offered electric-assist bicycles for rent. I don't quite remember the price, but the bikes were easy to ride and saved a lot of effort. I highly recommend cycling around the lake!
Minor drawback: The soundproofing wasn't great; I could hear the alarm from the next room at 4:30 AM.
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