Local Supporter Toru Kawai | Michikusa Guide

Local Supporter

Fuyutomo Kawai

Reliable Head Chef

At first glance, the head chef at Kai Hakone may seem quiet and intimidating, but he is actually a father of three daughters living near Lake Ashi. He also serves as a member of the Hakone Town volunteer fire corps, and he is always the first to catch and share little bits of information about Hakone. In fact, he loves Disney, and I often see him casually wearing clothes with Mickey Mouse prints.

KAI Hakone: The inn, which stands along a mountain stream, has river views from all rooms. After healing your mind and body in a semi-open-air bath that makes you feel as if you are blending into the scenery, a Meiji-era beef hot pot awaits you.

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Guided tour of the facility by staff

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Local Supporter FAQ

What are your recommendations for the Hakone area (places, experiences, gourmet food)?

The view of Mt. Fuji from Taikanzan and the 'inverted Fuji' reflected in Moto-Hakone Bay are my top recommendations for spectacular scenery.

Also, at Bakery & Table in Moto-Hakone, you can enjoy the bread and drinks you've purchased while soaking in the attached footbath; spending time watching the boats go back and forth on Lake Ashi is a truly luxurious experience.

Please secretly tell us some hidden gems that only a local would know.

Goten Park in Moto-Hakone
It is not very well known, so few tourists stop by, but the autumn leaves are very beautiful.

Sea of clouds appearing over Lake Ashi
A sea of clouds that appears when the weather conditions are right. Even among locals who have lived here for many years, few know of its existence. Mt. Fuji seen beyond the sea of clouds is one of the most spectacular views.

Hakone Shrine in the morning
Visiting the shrine in the crisp morning air gives you an indescribable feeling as you start your day.

Who did you travel with and where did you go last year?: I went to the Chiba area with my family (my wife and three daughters). We visited the Urayasu City Folk Museum, Umihotaru, and Kisarazu, where we learned about the history of Urayasu, traditional games, and how tunnels were dug while having fun.

How do you spend your days off?: I often go for drives around Hakone or to places within a 1-2 hour reach, seeking out sweets and spectacular views. I particularly often visit Gotemba, the Fuji Five Lakes area, Mishima, Ito, Manazuru, and Yugawara.