Kawana Hotel
A Colorful Winter Journey in Izu
Perched on a hill overlooking the sea in Kawana, Izu, Kawana Hotel is one of Japan’s most iconic classic resorts, having opened in 1936. Founder Kishichiro Okura, who studied in the UK for many years and was known as “the Baron,” designed the hotel after the castles of England. The eagle emblem above the large fireplace in the main lobby, symmetrically placed Italian marble columns, grand chandeliers, and various custom-designed lighting fixtures—all quietly reflect Okura’s passion and dedication. By the 1950s, it was even said among the upper class and influential figures of the day that spending the New Year holidays at Kawana was the ultimate status symbol. Conceived on a grand scale to create a world far removed from everyday reality, this tranquil retreat continues to offer a special experience today as it celebrates its 90th anniversary.
The World-Renowned Kawana Hotel Golf Course Fuji Course and Its Spectacular Views
Kawana Hotel is so closely associated with golf that many simply say, “Kawana means golf.” The Hotel boasts two world-renowned seaside courses with spectacular views. Among them, Fuji Course is consistently selected among the top 100 golf courses in the world and is often compared to Pebble Beach, making it a course that golfers dream of playing.
Designed by British golf course architect C.H. Alison, Kawana Hotel Golf Course Fuji Course opened in 1936, the same year as the hotel. Built in an era before heavy machinery, the course follows the natural undulations of the terrain. Its deep-faced Alison bunkers, sea breezes, and strongly grained greens all add to the challenge.
Above all, as its name suggests, Fuji Course offers magnificent views of snow-capped Mount Fuji across the sea, especially in winter when the air is at its clearest. More than 90 years after the course first opened, this beautiful scenery remains unchanged, continuing to captivate golfers who visit in winter.
Cherry Blossoms Bring an Early Touch of Spring
Blessed with a mild climate, Izu enjoys gentle sunlight even in winter. Kawazu-zakura, one of the region’s best-known early-blooming cherry varieties, gradually begins to bloom in early February and is distinctive for its long blooming period of approximately one month. By late February, its deep pink blossoms spread the most beautifully, adding an unexpected splash of color to a winter journey. At Kawana Hotel, even non-golfers can enjoy a special experience touring the world-renowned scenic golf course by cart while taking in spectacular views of the cherry blossoms and the sea. The contrast of the blue winter sea and clear sky, the green fairways, and the vivid early-blooming cherry blossoms create a landscape that feels as though the seasons have been slightly fast-forwarded.
Savor the Tranquility of the Night Beneath a Starry Sky
The front garden of Kawana Hotel is also a hidden gem for stargazing. Winter brings exceptionally clear skies, and the Hotel’s secluded location, largely removed from the glow of the city, reveals a magnificent canopy of stars overhead. During the winter season, the hotel opens its “Spectacular Stargazing Garden” exclusively to staying guests. Spend a peaceful evening in the garden, where the sea breeze drifts gently through the air, and gaze up at the twinkling stars surrounded by the soft glow of lanterns.
Winter tranquility, snow-capped Mt. Fuji viewed from a spectacular golf course, the colors of early-blooming cherry blossoms, and the brilliance of the night sky—Kawana Hotel offers a unique Izu experience where seasonal beauty and historic charm come together.
Why not add an unforgettable new page to your winter journey at Kawana Hotel?
