We had a double room, and it was perfect. Two large beds, seating area, plenty of space. The hostel has a charming little kitchen with all the utensils; they offer free coffee and choices of excellent herbal teas you can brew yourself. And being able to use the bikes was just an additional treat, for 500 yen per day per person. We rented the bikes and did a tour around Lake Kawaguchi and the bikes were in surprisingly good shape. Location is great - some 10 min from Shimoyoshida station - which is convenient for trains within the region but also for the buses to Tokyo (which are behind/near the station). Just from outside the hostel, is the famous crossing with the view of Mt Fuji, where everyone takes pictures. This makes it a great location because in the morning, you can just peak out the window to see how the sun is shining on Mt Fuji and hop outside to take pictures. It is also close to the Pagoda platform of Mt Fuji 15-20 minutes - basically up the mountain behind the station. And that covers pretty much the major sightseeing spots.

The only thing is that you have to walk a bit to find a convenience store. That;s not a fault of the hostel of course - just a statement. So if you run into one, just buy your stuff and bring it as there is none just next door. The rooms in the main building (above the reception) are up some narrow stairs - if you have heavy luggage, or issues walking up stairs, be aware of that. Also because the toilets are down the stairs next to the kitchen.

The view from our room was incredible, waking up to the mountains was perfect. The room we stayed in was huge, felt like our own little apartment, well equipped with a kettle and crockery. The room had great decor, comfortable beds and we loved the shower too. The staff were very hospitable, they even showed us the artist residency building which was great to see! The breakfast was delicious, we bought our breakfast voucher when we checked in and the cafe was lovely. We also asked for a recommendation for dinner and it was a great local Izakaya called “Sasaume” which was delicious and very friendly staff. Would highly recommend this place to anyone staying in this area.

Only having one night here!! Definitely book for longer as it’s just perfect.

Everything, great communal area with locally grown tea available, plus coffee, with a fireplace to keep it cosy Futon were really comfy, and the room was large. Communal showers and toilets were really clean and always tidy. the Location was perfect, and we found some excellent Izakaya a couple of minutes walk from the Hostel. We were super impressed with the stay - we were there for 3 nights, and would have happily stayed for more.

I have read a lot of great reviews about Hostel Saruya before experiencing one-night stay here. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly, recommending us with supermarket and dining options nearby. Hostel facilities are great, there is a supermarket within 8-minute walk so we could buy groceries and cook some food. The hostel is right at the famous spot for taking photo of Fuji-san at Honchou street so you can wake up early and go out to take some pictures before it gets too crowded. The vibe here is relaxing, although I think they may have changed some of the set-ups. Beds are super comfy and our room is spacious too. There are not that many rooms so you can feel relaxed like at home. The hostel can be suitable for people travelling for work as well.

The stairs are a bit steep so you have to be careful going up and down. Train stations are not that close so walking to and from the hostel can be somewhat tiring, especially with luggage. Even though beds and provided duvets were warm enough, the air condition seemed to not function properly.

The hostel is in the middle of a typical old middle-class Japanese village lost in time, perfect for a one or two-night stay exploring Mont Fuji. The hostel is simple but very charming, super pretty, quiet and calm. I would stay there again.

The view from the room window was disappointing, as the backyard of one of the neighbours was a mess, super dirty, and full of trash. But I think that's something they can't do much about it. If you close the curtain is fine.

Beautifully restored old homes within the Shimoyoshida area. The property has a focus on revitalising the local area by connecting with local artists, using local products in the bathrooms and for the bedding etc. The staff could not have been more helpful: assisting with local food recommendations, directions to places of interest and local art events, and how to operate the washing machines. The room was peaceful and connected to a shared area where you can cook if you wish. 'The street view' of Mt Fuji is just outside the front of the accomodation. Overall, a must visit for those who love art, interior design, and architecture.

Great experience, public area was really clean. Kitchen was well equipped with beautiful cups and plates. Really quiet, excellent location We visited with a baby and the room was large enough and comfortable to use

The only issue is that we stayed in a room with a balcony overlooking the Publix working space which is open between 9-7 In practice this didn't bother us at all, people were incredibly considerate but I think this is something that should be mentioned in the room description

Enjoyed the stay here. Despite the name hostel, it is a great experience staying in a more traditional setting with modern amenities. Cozy comfortable room with enough space to lounge and rest, and the common toilets are sparkling clean. Beautiful space with minimalistic design and wood tones made it feel like Muji Hotel but in Fujiyoshida. Checkin time is only until 6pm, but the staffs made sure to send us self check in instructions, which is super helpful since we arrived late due to changing buses. Location is great, near Fujiyoshida shopping street, train stations and Chureito pagoda, but it might be a little bit far out if you're aiming to go to the Lake Kawaguchiko area.

Wished for bit more privacy at the ground floor common area - currently the glass window is fully transparent. The door hinges are loose causing the door to sag, which resulted in us making tons of noise opening our room door, but we eventually figured out how to lift the door to close it quietly. Door locks can be better too.

The property is located on the main road next to the tourist info centre. It is very well decorated, the room was big and spacious, toilets and communal areas immaculate clean. In the living room there was a counter with a coffee machine and selection of teas and infusions available to guests. The property is very well looked after by both the staff and guests.

All great apart from the heating that was slightly too hot

It's both traditional and modern. Many tea options in the cute dining section. Beds were so so comfortable. Had such a great sleep after a long plane ride. Very clean. Room had refreshing circulation of mountain air.

We had to self-check-in because the reception doesn't stay open late. With the directions, it was able to find the back entrance but it took quite a while. It was also hard because they only send the instructions one day ahead, most of which I was on my flight, so I had to stand out in the cold trying to load the info and maps and try not to accidentally trespass. As it is a little complicated to find, I wish they gave more time to look over beforehand.