Located in the western foothills of Mount Fuji, Gora Kadan is the perfect vantage point for views and spectacular sunsets
Here we are again, ushering in yet another new year and another season of Singaporeans flocking to Japan. In case you’re one of us, we suggest you retreat to the western foothills of Mount Fuji, where a luxurious ryokan experience awaits.
Gora Kadan, currently a part of the Relais & Château family and a Three Michelin Keys recipient for the second consecutive year, opened its second property not long ago. Located in Subashiri, Shizuoka Prefecture, just a 35-minute scenic drive from Mishima Station, Gora Kadan Fuji, from almost any room, offers the perfect vantage point of the volcano. On clear nights, expect spectacular sunsets, though the early bird will also catch sunrises that are just as magical.
With Ogitsu Architects Studio’s vision of “enriched tranquility”, the hotel has created a sense of place where time feels non-existent. Guests are embraced in peace and quiet, and through Japanese spatial sensibilities and craftsmanship, one is surrounded by the new and nostalgic. Art like antique ceremonial tea bowls that were once used to serve Emperor Meiji coexist seamlessly with contemporary pieces. Guests can also take advantage of a 36-hole golf course, and take a break at the clubhouse and restaurant while they’re at it.
There are 39 suites and three standalone villas, with every room designed to be its own sanctuary. From the smallest suite (74 square metres) to the largest villa (254 square metres), expect an outdoor space that comes in the form of a balcony, terrace or garden, and if you’re lucky, an al fresco bathtub for soaking in the nature. Indoors, there are nice touches like the thick tatami floors, towels warmed by wall heaters, and Sensai-branded skincare.
There is decent skiing nearby and even the Subashiri Trail, one of Mount Fuji’s less-crowded hiking routes, but if the plan is to stay in, you’ll be happy to know that there’s no shortage of dining options at the hotel. There are four restaurants on site, each specialising in a distinct Japanese cuisine (kaiseki, sushi, teppanyaki and kappo), so you’re never left wanting for more. There’s even a cocktail bar, where the menu’s centred around Japanese whisky, sake, wine and caviar.
In between meals and golf, perhaps, the Kadan Spa offers excellent treatments like head immersion therapy and deep-tissue massages with a highly concentrated oxygen oil. It also encourages time spent in healing hot spring waters, whether in private or the communal baths, which you can enjoy indoors and outdoors.
Featured photo by Gora Kadan
