Hopscotch: JAPAN TRIP #3 KAWAGUCHIKO

Finally after months, here is part 3 of my Japanese trip. After leaving Tokyo we headed for an onsen in Kawaguchiko, one of the five vulcanic lakes at the feet of Mt Fuji. We spent 2 super relaxing days there. Good food, fresh air, hot spa baths. What more can you ask? We even experienced one night of typhoon. Amazing non-stop downpour. The sound makes you feel extra cosy whilst snuggling in your futon :)

This is the Fuji trainline that took us to Kawaguchiko. So cute!

On the train. We can't wait to see Mt. Fuji!!!

This is the yukata provided by our onsen. We stayed at Sunnide Resort Village, a really nice and quiet place by the lake in a forset outside town. I would definitely go back. The staff was so helpful. They even come to collect us at the station when we arrived. It is wrongly listed as a hostel on the net, but I can assure you it is not.

We chose a traditional Japanese room. It was very comfortable. Here I'm preparing tea :)

Our stay at the onsen included breakfast, dinner and unlimited use of the spa with a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji. I would have never expected to be fed so much considering the small price we paid. Everything was so good and beautiful! I was shocked! Look how many yummy courses they brought us...

Home-made lavender ice cream... bliss!

Time for bed.

Sightseeing. We took a long walk through the countryside and along the lake. We stopped to visit shrines or anything interesting we found on the road. We were also given complimentary umbrellas by the hotel staff in view of the approaching typhoon.

Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine. The shrine was built in 865 for Konohana Sakuyahime goddess.

Immerse in the forest... so peaceful and silent.

Nanahonsugi (Seven Japanese Cedars). Ancient and holy.

Rice paddies.

Traces of family fun abandoned by the shore... It must be busy here in the summer months.

You can find one of these anywhere. This was literally in the middle of nowhere. Quite addictive...

Even the sewage signs are pretty in Japan...

Traditional Kawaguchiko noodles called Hoto, a rustic udon soup garnished with vegetables. Very delicious and filling.

Fresh deep fried little fish straight from the lake...

We wanted to order tea, but the lady of the restaurant insisted we drank Fujisan water "very good for you!". Maybe it was all in my mind, but I really felt great.

Up to Kachi Kachi Mountain! I'll tell you the story of the racoon and the rabbit later :)

View for the top.

I hate that stupid rabbit.

Lavender soft cone!!!

Dinner on the second evening. Magnificent once again.

Not to mention that the breakfast at Sunnide was also amazing! It was a buffet including continental, American and Japanese food. I opted for the full Japanese experience including natto, pickles and onsen egg :D (to name a few things).