10 Must-Try Restaurants in Kawaguchiko for Newly Engaged Couples
Your engagement day marks the start of your forever, a milestone that deserves to be celebrated in every detail. While the proposal itself is the highlight, where you go after to toast the moment matters just as much.
From intimate dinners to cozy cafés with views of Mount Fuji, Kawaguchiko has no shortage of places that turn an already unforgettable day into something even more magical. Here are 10 restaurants I recommend for celebrating your engagement in Kawaguchiko:
1. Sanrokuen – A Traditional BBQ Experience
If you’re after authenticity, Sanrokuen is the place to be. Housed in a 150-year-old building, this restaurant offers a rustic robatayaki dining experience, with charcoal hearths glowing as you grill fresh seafood, duck, scallops, and vegetables right at your table. The atmosphere is interactive, cozy, and romantic, perfect for celebrating this moment with your loved one.
2. Kosaku Kawaguchiko
Every region has its signature dish, and in Kawaguchiko, it’s houtou noodles. Kosaku serves them in giant steaming bowls, rich and hearty enough to share. Enjoy the meal in tatami seating surrounded by folk-style décor. Trust me, it’s a local specialty you won’t want to miss.
3. Shaw’s Sushi Bar & Dining
If you’re looking for something modern that still feels comfortable, Shaw’s is an easy choice in Kawaguchiko. The menu focuses on fresh nigiri and beautifully presented sushi rolls, alongside drinks and appetizers. It’s a great spot for a date night after saying “yes.”
4. Yakiniku Izakaya 871
If you’d rather celebrate tucked away from the crowd, this yakiniku spot is perfect. Yakiniku Izakaya 871 offers semi-private seating, with sunken kotatsu or tables divided by noren curtains. The menu highlights local Yamanashi ingredients like Koshu beef, Fuji Sakura pork, and Shingen chicken.
Bonus: some seats even come with a view of Mt. Fuji!
5. La Luce
When you’re in the mood for pasta and wine to celebrate, La Luce hits the mark. It’s cozy, welcoming, and feels a little like a hidden Italian corner in Kawaguchiko. They serve Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and gelato, while also offering vegetarian and vegan options. The English-speaking staff are attentive, which makes the experience easy and enjoyable for visitors.
6. Café Troisieme Marche
If you’re looking for somewhere that feels laid-back but still special, Café Troisieme Marche is a great pick. With its French countryside vibe, antique furniture, and dried flower décor, it’s the kind of place where you naturally slow down. Located near the Music Forest Museum, it serves simple meals like curry and sandwiches, but the real highlight is the desserts, perfect for ending the day on a sweet note.
7. La Cueillete
Do you want to cap off the proposal with French dining and mountain views? La Cueillete is the perfect restaurant to visit. Celebrate your engagement surrounded by vineyards, with Mt. Fuji in front and the Yatsugatake Mountains behind.
The menu is French, prepared with fresh local ingredients, and served in a simple but elegant way. It’s a quiet spot if you want something scenic and refined to celebrate this milestone with your loved one.
8. Kitchen Fujiyama View
Located on the second floor of the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center, this restaurant looks out toward Mt. Fuji. One of their signature dishes is a bright blue curry with rice shaped like the mountain. It’s lighthearted, fun, and memorable, offering playful dishes for you and your partner to enjoy.
The place also has a souvenir shop selling their local specialty, handmade blueberry jam. You can also join a jam-making class or go blueberry picking downstairs to make the most of your visit.
9. Lake Bake Café
For something more casual, Lake Bake Café is a must. Enjoy freshly baked pastries by the lake as you relive the special moment together. Their breads are made with natural yeast and pair perfectly with homemade jam and coffee on the terrace overlooking Mt. Fuji. It’s peaceful and intimate, making it perfect for couples who like to keep things cozy.
10. Brand New Day
Last but not least, end your day with wood-fired Neapolitan pizza or freshly baked croissants at Brand New Day. Pair it with coffee or craft beer, then head out to the terrace to enjoy the panoramic view of Mt. Fuji together. It’s a scenic spot that makes for a satisfying way to close out your celebration.
Crafting a Day to Remember
From choosing the perfect spot to savoring a memorable meal, every detail of your engagement day deserves care and thoughtful planning. Kawaguchiko offers no shortage of breathtaking backdrops and intimate dining spots, making it an ideal place to celebrate such a milestone.
If you’re planning your engagement here, I’d love to help you not only capture the moment but also guide you through the experience. From locations and outfits to where you’ll celebrate afterward, I’ll help make your engagement day feel effortless, meaningful, and truly unforgettable.
