HOSHINOYA Fuji

"Glamping in Japan The woodblock prints from ukiyo-e artist Hokusai first introduced me to Japan’s most iconic volcano. Between 1826 and 1833, Hokusai traveled to many provinces in Japan to see Mount Fuji from different vantage points as represented in his works Great Wave off Kanagawa, Watermill at Onden, and Nihonbashi bridge in Edo in order to produce the famous “36 views of Mount Fuji” series. I have always loved these graphic prints and was determined to get at least one view of this magnetic mountain in my lifetime. During my stay at Hoshinoya Fuji, I was able to get the same view that Hokusai etched almost two centuries ago in print number #35 of the series: Mount Fuji reflected in Lake Kawaguchi. Set northeast of Lake Kawaguchi, Hoshino Fuji is the destination for those interested in “glamping” and exploring Japan’s natural side. Barely a year old, the resort rises like concrete tree houses among the red pine forest. Upon check-in you’ll be given a backpack with headlight, water bottle, snacks and portable blanket to urge you on for nearby adventures. Around the resort, camping elements are incorporated with hammocks between the pines, open camp-fires at the Cloud Terrace, and portable in-room coffee kit. Each cabin has a plush bed, minimal furniture and a balcony for panoramic views of the lake and Mount Fuji. You can “rough it” with nature outside, but I couldn’t resist pampering myself with the amenities provided by the resort. My perfect morning started with a bath scented with hinoki and flowers before a wholesome breakfast with fresh baked bread on my private balcony. During the day you can go out for a hike or kayak or learn how to smoke food from one of the members of staff. In the evening, learn how to cook over an open fire from the chefs before you enjoy the best dinner with local meat and vegetables. The staff at Hoshinoya Fuji thought of all the details that would create a great camping trip and combined it with the attentiveness of a luxury hotel to create a truly unforgettable experience. A work of art led me here and I can’t wait to return and experience this level of hospitality again."

"While Hoshinoya Fuji bills itself as a glamping experience, more particular types will be relieved to discover that although there's plenty of forest bathing to be had, rooms are decidedly indoors. Make sure you angle for a room with an unobstructed view of Mount Fuji and we guarantee you'll never leave your balcony; even in winter, you can light a small fire to keep warm as you enjoy how the setting sun changes the shape of Japan's most hallowed mountain." - Brandon Presser

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? While Hoshinoya Fuji bills itself as a glamping experience, more particular types will be relieved to discover that although there's plenty of forest bathing to be had, rooms are decidedly indoors. They also come with modern conveniences and sport unparalleled views of Mount Fuji across Lake Kawaguchi. What's the backstory? Hoshinoya Fuji is part of the larger Hoshino collection of resorts and hotels—considered a top class of stay. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? Spartan is the key word here. Make sure you angle for a room with an unobstructed view of Mount Fuji and we guarantee you'll never leave your balcony; even in winter, you can light a small fire to keep warm as you enjoy how the setting sun changes the shape of Japan's most hallowed mountain. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? There's free wifi in the rooms. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? The glamping concept really comes alive with the property's food and beverage service. Expect coffee in canteens; little drinks stations throughout the hilly property allow you to sip warm cocoa on a hammock or in a pillow nook. While there is a main dining room, camp-style meals are worth the extra splurge, especially for larger groups. And the service? Staff escorts you by private vehicle to the forested enclave. Just go with the flow—the process is meant to whisk you from the real world into magical realm of Hoshino. What type of travelers will you find here? Trendy Tokyo types wanting an upmarket forest getaway—without roughing it. Is there anything you'd change? We'd love the rooms to be a little more woodsy to match the surroundings; they feel a bit too sterile. Any other hotel features worth noting? The house blend of proprietary Hoshino coffee is top grade. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? This unique stay blends strokes of modernity and rusticity." - Brandon Presser

"We arrive at the Hoshinoya Fuji at night, taxiing through village streets to stop at a small outpost in a parking lot where we are shown a wall of colored backpacks and invited to choose one. Then we are taken by shuttle, through the rain, up a hillside to a set of concrete cubes — a kind of James Bond villain’s lair — one of which belongs to us, and to us alone. There is blond wood, a sumptuous bed, a balcony with a gas fireplace, and a heated table with a quilt attached called a kotatsu. A woman from Hokkaido helps us cook a seasonal meal of venison and mushrooms. The next morning, we enjoy a backpack-delivered breakfast with a view that includes a lake and a red maple, though Mount Fuji remains hidden by fog." - Travel + Leisure Editors