Kawana Cape - Image 1
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Kawana Cape

4.3
·1k reviews·Itō, Japan

A historic golf resort offering colonial charm, legendary courses, and breathtaking ocean views. Step back in time with impeccable service.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Pleasant weather for golf

CrowdMedium
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Kawana Cape - Image 1

Kawana Cape

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Pleasant weather for golf

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic golf resort offering colonial charm, legendary courses, and breathtaking ocean views. Step back in time with impeccable service.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"Colonial charm meets ocean breeze—like Gatsby went golfing in Japan."

Vertical photo
TIP

💰 Budget for Everything

Be prepared for high prices on food, drinks, and even poolside chairs. Pack snacks if possible!

🚗 Plan Your Arrival

Getting here requires planning. Research train and taxi options in advance as it's quite secluded.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary Fuji Golf Course

The Legendary Fuji Golf Course

Golf Course

Tee off on a world-renowned course with breathtaking ocean views. A golfer's paradise!

Ocean View Rooms

Ocean View Rooms

Guest Rooms

Wake up to stunning vistas of the Pacific. History and nature combine for a serene stay.

Historic Colonial Charm

Historic Colonial Charm

Hotel Lobby & Common Areas

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved 1930s resort. Elegant lounges and a grand fireplace await.

Tranquil Onsen Experience

Tranquil Onsen Experience

Onsen (Hot Spring)

Unwind in the soothing waters of the onsen, a perfect complement to a day of golf or relaxation.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elegance (and the Price Tag)

Kawana Cape offers a luxurious, nostalgic escape. Be prepared for premium pricing on everything from rooms to poolside chairs. Budget accordingly for dining and amenities to fully enjoy this historic gem.

Secluded Serenity, Plan Your Transport

This resort is beautifully isolated, meaning easy access is key. Research train and taxi options in advance, as getting to Kawana Cape requires some planning. Taxis can be pricey, so factor this into your travel budget.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for golf
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene ambiance
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

💰 Budget for Everything

Be prepared for high prices on food, drinks, and even poolside chairs. Pack snacks if possible! Reddit

🚗 Plan Your Arrival

Getting here requires planning. Research train and taxi options in advance as it's quite secluded. Reddit

⛳ Golfers' Dream

The Fuji Golf Course is a major draw. Book tee times well in advance if golf is your priority. Reddit

🕰️ Embrace the Nostalgia

Rooms can be dated, but embrace the vintage charm. The bathrooms are often updated. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

💰 Budget for Everything

Be prepared for high prices on food, drinks, and even poolside chairs. Pack snacks if possible! Reddit

🚗 Plan Your Arrival

Getting here requires planning. Research train and taxi options in advance as it's quite secluded. Reddit

⛳ Golfers' Dream

The Fuji Golf Course is a major draw. Book tee times well in advance if golf is your priority. Reddit

🕰️ Embrace the Nostalgia

Rooms can be dated, but embrace the vintage charm. The bathrooms are often updated. Reddit

☕ Coffee Costs

A cup of coffee can be surprisingly expensive. Factor this into your daily budget. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kawana Cape is lauded for its legendary golf course, spectacular ocean views, and timeless colonial charm. Guests appreciate the polite service and historic ambiance. However, the high cost of dining and amenities, along with some dated room features, are noted drawbacks.

"A place so serene, even your phone signal meditates.
Colonial charm meets ocean breeze—like Gatsby went golfing in Japan.
The golf course? Legendary. Even the seagulls pause to admire your swing (or laugh at it).
Rooms feel like history gave you a hug.
Service? So polite, I felt like royalty with bedhead.
Yes, it's a bit pricey—but so is time travel, and this place is basically 1930s luxury in HD.
Caution: You may never want to check out."

CHITRANGAN KUMAR

"Food was okay
Room was very outdated and A/C didn't work in my room
Onsen was great
Views were spectacular
Service was good
Staff was very nice and helpful
Very pricey for what it is"

Jared Wilks

"There is a nice pool but you have to pay 5,000 yen to sit on the plastic chair next to the pool! It’s not a seat at Madonna’s concert for god's sake! They will humiliate you by sending you to sit in a corner in the “free space” far from the rest of the “respectable people”. And guess what? They will ask you to remove your bag and belongings from near the pool and put them in the free space. Don’t get me wrong. It’s an old beautiful hotel with polite staff. But they pretend that everyone is a millionaire here. That’s far from the truth. A family paying 130,000 yen for 3 nights isn’t necessarily rich. The 5,000 charged for two plastic recliners is two or three days' worth of food for a household. A cup of coffee at the hotel cafe costs 950 yen (plus 23% tax and service charge). Breakfast tray is 3,500 yen. Food on the menu is crazy expensive and there is no way to eat elsewhere as the hotel is located in a secluded place far from the town. You can bring your food but the hotel management doesn’t like this and won’t offer a microwave oven to heat your food. In summary, be prepared to spend at least 15,000 yen per person per day for food and services like a chair!"

Ali Noorani

What People Like

Spectacular ocean views
Legendary golf course
Historic colonial charm

What People Dislike

Very pricey
Dated rooms
Expensive amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kawana Cape is quite secluded. The most common way is by train to Kawana Station, followed by a taxi. Taxis can be expensive, so factor this into your budget. Some visitors find the journey challenging due to limited public transport options. Reddit

The hotel is in a remote location, making it difficult to access other towns or attractions without a taxi or pre-arranged transport. Consider this if you plan on exploring beyond the resort. Reddit

Information on shuttle services is limited. It's best to check directly with the hotel or research local transport options thoroughly before your arrival. Reddit

For golfers, arranging transport to and from the golf course is essential. Taxis are available, but pre-booking might be advisable during peak seasons. Reddit

Yes, driving is an option, and parking is typically available at the hotel. However, be aware of Japanese road conditions and navigation systems. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Absolutely! The Fuji Golf Course is legendary and highly sought after. Booking tee times well in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

Yes, there can be significant fees for using the pool area, including charges for loungers. Be prepared for additional costs beyond your room rate. Reddit

As a hotel, Kawana Cape operates 24/7 for check-in and general access. However, specific amenities like restaurants, the spa, and the pool will have their own operating hours. Reddit

Day passes for the golf course are typically available for guests staying at the hotel. Non-guests may have limited access or higher fees. It's best to inquire directly with the hotel's golf concierge. Reddit

There is no general entrance fee for the hotel. Fees are associated with specific amenities like golf, spa treatments, and sometimes the pool area. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

While the hotel has a colonial charm, smart casual attire is generally recommended for dining and common areas. Golf attire is required on the course. Reddit

Yes, the hotel offers an onsen, a seasonal pool, and beautiful ocean views. The historic ambiance itself is an attraction. Reddit

The views are spectacular, especially from the ocean-view rooms and the golf course. Expect panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Reddit

While it caters to a more mature and luxurious clientele, families can enjoy the views and the onsen. However, the high costs and focus on golf might make it less ideal for very young children. Reddit

Rooms typically include standard amenities, though some may find them dated. Bathrooms are often updated. Air conditioning functionality can be inconsistent in older rooms. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The hotel offers French dining and other restaurant options. However, these are known to be quite pricey, and there are limited alternatives nearby due to the secluded location. Reddit+1

Due to its remote location, dining options outside the hotel are very limited. There are convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson nearby, but few full-service restaurants. Reddit

While you can bring your own food, the hotel management may not be accommodating, and there might not be facilities like a microwave oven to heat it. Reddit

Meals at the hotel restaurants are expensive. Expect to spend a significant amount per person per day on food and beverages. Reddit+1

Breakfast is typically not included in the room rate and is offered as a separate charge, which can be substantial. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ocean views from the rooms and the golf course are prime photography locations. The historic architecture of the hotel also offers many picturesque angles. Reddit

Yes, taking photos on the golf course is generally permitted, especially from designated areas. However, be mindful of other golfers and the pace of play. Reddit

While general photography is allowed, be respectful of other guests' privacy. Some indoor areas might have specific photography rules. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for ocean views. Mid-day can be harsh, but the lush greenery of the golf course is always photogenic. Reddit

Drone usage is likely restricted due to privacy concerns and proximity to the golf course and ocean. It's best to check with hotel management before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kawana Cape offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty that families can appreciate. The stunning ocean views and the tranquil onsen provide relaxing experiences for all ages. While the hotel's primary draw is golf, the spacious grounds and the chance to experience a historic resort can be engaging for children. Reddit

However, families should be aware of the significant costs associated with dining and amenities like the pool. The hotel's atmosphere leans towards a more mature and quiet clientele, so it might be less ideal for very young or boisterous children. Planning for meals and activities that cater to younger tastes while managing the budget will be key to a successful family stay. Reddit

⛳ Golf Enthusiasts

For golfers, Kawana Cape is practically a pilgrimage site. The Fuji Golf Course is world-renowned, offering challenging play and unparalleled ocean panoramas. Playing this iconic course is often the primary reason for visiting, and reviews consistently highlight its exceptional quality and beauty. Reddit

Beyond the Fuji course, the hotel provides excellent service tailored to golfers, including knowledgeable caddies. The overall experience is designed to cater to those passionate about the sport, making it a top destination for a golf-centric getaway. Remember to book tee times well in advance, as they are highly coveted. Reddit

❤️ Couples Seeking Romance

Kawana Cape offers a perfect setting for a romantic escape, combining historic elegance with breathtaking natural beauty. Imagine enjoying sunset views from your ocean-view room or unwinding together in the serene onsen. The hotel's refined atmosphere and polite service create an intimate and peaceful ambiance. Reddit

While dining can be pricey, the French restaurant offers a sophisticated setting for a special meal. The overall tranquility of the resort, away from the hustle and bustle, allows couples to reconnect and enjoy each other's company amidst stunning surroundings. It's a place where time seems to slow down, perfect for a memorable romantic retreat. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the Fuji Golf Course

The Fuji Golf Course at Kawana Cape is not just a golf course; it's a legend. Designed by Charles H. Alison, it's consistently ranked among the world's best. The course offers dramatic ocean vistas on nearly every hole, making each round a visual spectacle. Golfers rave about the challenging layout and the impeccable condition of the greens. Even if you're not a seasoned golfer, the sheer beauty and prestige of playing here are undeniable. Reddit

Key features include its strategic bunkering, undulating fairways, and the iconic par-3 7th hole, which plays directly over the Pacific. The caddies are often praised for their professionalism and excellent English skills, enhancing the overall experience. For golf enthusiasts, a visit to Kawana Cape is often a bucket-list item, promising an unforgettable golfing adventure with a touch of old-world glamour. Reddit

Pro Tip: Book your tee times months in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons. The popularity of the Fuji course means slots fill up quickly. Reddit

Stepping Back in Time: Colonial Charm and Service

Kawana Cape is more than just a hotel; it's a portal to a bygone era of colonial elegance. Opened in 1936, the hotel retains much of its original charm, from the grand lobby with its impressive fireplace to the meticulously maintained common areas. The architecture and decor evoke a sense of 1930s luxury, reminiscent of the Gatsby era. This historical ambiance is a significant draw for guests seeking a unique and nostalgic travel experience. Reddit

The service at Kawana Cape is consistently described as polite and helpful, with staff going out of their way to assist guests. While some reviews mention a potential language barrier, the overall sentiment is that the staff are dedicated to providing a high level of hospitality. This commitment to service, combined with the hotel's historic character, creates an atmosphere of refined tranquility that many visitors find deeply appealing. Reddit

Consider this: While the charm is undeniable, some rooms may feel dated. However, many guests find that the updated bathrooms and the overall historic feel more than compensate for any perceived lack of modern amenities. Embrace the nostalgia for a truly immersive stay. Reddit

Navigating the Costs: Luxury Comes at a Price

A recurring theme in reviews of Kawana Cape is its premium pricing. While the hotel offers a luxurious experience, guests should be prepared for significant expenses across the board. This includes not only room rates but also dining, drinks, and even access to amenities like the pool. Some visitors have expressed surprise at the cost of seemingly small items, such as poolside chairs or a cup of coffee. Reddit

The secluded location contributes to the higher costs, as dining options outside the resort are scarce. This means guests are largely reliant on the hotel's own restaurants, which are known for their high prices. While the quality of food and service is generally good, the expense can add up quickly, leading some to suggest budgeting at least 15,000 yen per person per day for food and services. Reddit

Budgeting Tip: If you're traveling on a tighter budget, consider bringing some of your own snacks or non-perishable food items. While the hotel may not provide extensive facilities for outside food, having some provisions can help manage daily expenses. Reddit

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