A quick report on the newly opened Gora Kadan Fuji. The stay exceeded my expectations for a new property and I can see this becoming very popular with foreign guests (+ locals). It’s big - so it almost feels like a hotel/ryokan hybrid, but facilities were impressive because of the size. A full sized gym, pool, and multiple dining options.

The build quality was top notch, views were spectacular, and food selection was varied (we enjoyed Fuji Kanda, but there is also a sushi option run by Sushi Sho as well as the traditional kaiseki option). If you’re there for the Fuji views, avoid the ground floor rooms with stone baths - those have lovely garden views but you won’t see Mt. Fuji.

There were some service issues, but being a new ryokan only a few months into operations they were not significant enough to complain about and will surely be ironed out in a few months.

We have booked our return in April in the “hare” villa. It comes with a large onsen pool and is essentially a two bedroom suite. Can’t wait to return and hopefully catch some cherry blossom!