Local Guide ~ An Original Japan Travel Guide by Hoshino Resorts' Local Staff

Local Guide

Kawai, Tetsuyu

A chef you can count on

At first glance, he may seem quiet and scary, but he is the father of three daughters living near Lake Ashi. He is also a member of the Hakone town fire brigade and is always quick to catch up on petty information about Hakone and provide it to us. In fact, he loves Disney and can often be seen casually wearing clothes with Mickey printed on them.

Hoshino Resorts KAI Hakone: The inn is located along a mountain stream, and all rooms have a river view. After relaxing in the semi-outdoor hot spring that makes you feel as if you are blending into the scenery, the Meiji beef hot pot awaits you.

Introduction page

Local Guide FAQ

What do you recommend in the Hakone area (places, experiences, food)?

Fuji from Taikanzan and the upside down Fuji in Moto Hakone Bay is one of the best views you can enjoy.

Bakery & Table in Moto-Hakone offers a luxurious place to enjoy your bread and beverages while soaking in their footbath and watching the boats pass by on Lake Ashi.

Please sneak in some hole-in-the-wall places that you know because you live there.

Goten Park in Moto Hakone
Not many tourists stop by this park because it is not well known, but the autumn leaves are very beautiful.

Sea of clouds over Lake Ashi
Sea of clouds appears when the weather conditions are right. Even locals who have lived here for many years rarely know of its existence. Fuji beyond the sea of clouds is one of the most spectacular sights.

Hakone Shrine in the morning
The start of a day is indescribable when worshipping in the dignified morning air.

Where did you travel to last year and with whom?: I went to the Chiba area with my family (wife and three daughters). We went to the Urayasu City Folk Museum, Umihotaru, and Kisarazu to learn about the history of Urayasu, old games, and how tunnels were dug while playing.

What do you do on your days off?: I go for a drive around Hakone or to places that are only an hour or two away, looking for something sweet and a spectacular view. I often go to Gotemba, Fuji Five Lakes area, Mishima, Ito, Manazuru, and Yugawara.