A must-visit in a lifetime: Japan’s classic hotel that stays “true to tradition”

Photos & Text / 100 Selected Japanese Inns: A Sanctuary of Wa, the Hotel Bible by Renowned Inn Expert Kazuhisa Kashiwaya – 100 Picks of Breathtaking Views, Hot Springs & Gourmet Stays

Fujiya Hotel – An absolute must-visit in a lifetime, a classic hotel that remains “true to tradition.”

The Fujiya Hotel is an iconic landmark in Hakone and has been loved by tourists since long ago. Many visitors come here to admire its architecture, dine inside, or even decide to stay overnight and enjoy a relaxing time.

People have come to know the Fujiya in many ways, and for a long time, it has also brought spiritual fulfillment to many visitors to Hakone. How has it continued to win the love of travelers and become such a unique presence in Hakone, where the lodging industry is highly competitive? What is the secret behind this? Located along National Route 1 near Miyanoshita Station on the way from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, for those coming from central Tokyo who are used to seeing high-rise city hotels, the Fujiya’s exterior is more reminiscent of a traditional Japanese inn.



Turning off from the bustling intersection and entering the hotel grounds, you’re struck by its classic façade right at the entrance — the word “nostalgic” alone doesn’t do justice to the feeling. The Fujiya Hotel was founded 135 years ago and is known as a pioneer of resort hotels in Japan. The year it was established, 1878, was the year after the suppression of the Satsuma Rebellion, during the still unsettled period of the Meiji Restoration. It’s truly amazing that such a beautifully designed and creatively conceived hotel was built in Hakone back then. This impression only grows stronger as you walk through its corridors or up and down its stairs.

After dining at the non-guest-accessible restaurant “Wisteria,” famous for its beef curry, I headed to the tea house “Ran” for coffee, where the elegant aroma of the brew relaxed my body and mind. The soft-spoken conversations of diners created a pleasant atmosphere throughout the main building. I was shown to a twin-bed room on the second floor of the main building. As I opened the large door and stepped into the room, I was immediately enveloped by an indescribable ambiance. The high ceilings, unpretentious yet noticeable furnishings, and exquisitely arranged details everywhere left a deep impression.



Many both well-known and anonymous foreign guests have stayed in this room. Even in this room full of exotic charm, one can faintly sense a tranquil atmosphere akin to that of a traditional Japanese inn. I believe this is because although the hotel values tradition and formality, the service is thoughtfully executed in every detail. The Japanese garden and various corners of the hotel subtly express a “Japanese style,” representing the hotel’s uniquely thoughtful design.

The hotel retains all the amenities expected of a resort property, yet it doesn’t hesitate to serve guests with the uniquely Japanese inn approach of “wholehearted hospitality.” This is what makes it a true hotel. Compared to some older hotels that are overly attentive to the point of making guests uncomfortable, the service provided by the Fujiya Hotel staff feels heartwarming and relaxed. They always respond with smiles and courtesy to even simple requests or questions, which is truly touching.

Even located in Hakone, close to the capital region and easily accessible, it should still listen to the needs of its guests and continuously innovate. Whether it's group travelers, families, or couples who love to relax at the hotel, a good inn (or hotel) should evolve along with changes in its clientele — this principle isn’t limited to just hotels in the Hakone area.



When renovating an old building, the most efficient method is often to tear it down and rebuild. But the Fujiya Hotel didn’t do that. Instead, it brought in experienced craftsmen and preserved the hotel’s appearance to this day through cultural property restoration techniques. Since it’s a functioning hotel, halting operations for renovations isn’t feasible. The refurbishment and repairs of the Fujiya were meticulously planned — efforts were made to prevent guests from noticing, concentrating construction progress during off-hours, and more.

Among the many guests who have visited the Fujiya over its long history, numerous have become regulars. To cater to their preferences as much as possible, great care has gone into crafting the kaiseki meals served in the restaurants — a testament to the dedication of the highly service-oriented hotel staff. The veteran craftsmen responsible for renovations, the staff who tend the greenhouses and nurture flowers day and night, the concierge team who interact face-to-face with guests and provide evening tours, as well as the waiters and sommeliers who understand the preferences of restaurant diners and offer heartfelt service — from conversations with them, you can deeply sense how much they love the hotel where they work.



I’ve come to realize that those who strive to ensure guests’ comfort place the utmost importance on the spirit of “preservation” — preserving ancient buildings and, just as importantly, preserving the experience of guests from days gone by. This attitude of not blindly following trends gives the hotel a profound depth honed by time. “True to tradition” — the Fujiya Hotel, which has withstood the test of time for 135 years while maintaining its classic style, not only preserves its unchanged exterior but also continues to shine with its unwavering dedication to warmly welcoming all guests.