This article is a research guide for an inn we have not visited based on official information and current accommodation information as of 2026-08-11. Cat presence and accommodation conditions may change, so please check with the facility before making a reservation.
About the photo: it does not show this inn or its resident cats
This illustration does not document the rooms or cats currently in residence.
Illustrative image (not a photograph of Lee or the facility) / Photo: FOX ^.ᆽ.^= ∫, Pexels
“R GARDEN” in Yamanakako Village, Yamanashi Prefecture is a glamping facility where you can enjoy a bonfire and a cabin stay at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Lee, a black and white cat, lives in the garden, which is also an inn where you can stay with your dog.
Lee is a female local cat who appeared in the 2026 Rakuten Travel resident cat ranking. The charm of this inn is that it is not a cat-only facility, but that you can spend time with the cats freely roaming the garden.
Resident cat Lee’s favorite spot is in front of the sign
According to the facility’s introduction, Lee’s favorite spot is in front of the “R GARDEN (R GARDEN)” sign. The black and white tuxedo pattern and pink nose are the landmarks. The facility describes Lee as roaming the grounds, rolling over to show her belly, vocalizing to people, and asking for attention.
We classify it as B because there is specific information about relaxing near people and trying to actively interact with them. However, the cat lives freely on the property, including outdoors, and there is no confirmation that it will come to the guest room. Even if you meet them when you arrive or in the garden, they may not show up depending on the cat’s mood or the weather.
When Lee approaches, let her sniff your hand first; if she shows no signs of discomfort, interact with her quietly. Do not feed, pick up, or chase the cat while it is resting.
“Bonfire Treat” to enjoy at the foot of Mt. Fuji
Official website features as its theme “Bonfire Treat,” which combines bonfires, people, and retreats. This is a stay where you can feel the flickering of flames and the sound of firewood, and enjoy an extraordinary experience with your family, friends, and beloved dog.
Because it is based in an independent cabin, it has a different character from a typical ryokan where you can move around in a large lobby and corridor. If you want to meet Lee, it’s best to check in and take a look around the sign and garden, where cats are often seen.
Please check the accommodation plan, meal options, bonfire usage conditions, and dog-friendly guest rooms when making your selection on the reservation screen. The area around Yamanakako is at a high altitude, and it gets cold after sunset and depending on the season. If you are waiting for the cat outdoors, it’s a good idea to bring warm clothing and rain gear.
Yamanakako’s location is easy to get to without a car
The location is 865-289 Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture. The official website states that it is “easy to get to without a car” and “there is a supermarket nearby.”A convenience store is about a 3-minute walk, a supermarket is about a 7-minute walk, and the day-trip hot spring “Benifuji no Yu” is about a 10-minute walk.
When using public transportation, check in advance the stops and last bus of the express bus or local bus that matches your date of use. Cars also need to be prepared for snow and frozen roads in the winter. The business hours and closing days of surrounding facilities change depending on the season, so please check the inn’s access information for the latest information.
Basic information
| Item | Contents |
|---|---|
| Facility name | R GARDEN (R Garden) |
| Location | 865-289 Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture 401-0501 (local address: 〒401-0501 山梨県南都留郡山中湖村山中865-289) |
| resident cat | Lee |
| Distance with cats | You may be able to interact with the resident cat around the sign or in the garden |
| guest-room visits | unconfirmed |
| Features of the inn | Cabin, bonfire, dog-friendly plan |
| Official website | R GARDEN (R Garden) |
Location and Google Maps
R GARDEN (R GARDEN)
〒401-0501 山梨県南都留郡山中湖村山中865-289
Summary
R GARDEN (R Garden) is a cat inn where you can enjoy a cabin at the foot of Mt. Fuji and a bonfire while waiting to meet Lee, the resident cat, who walks freely in the garden. Although time with cats is not guaranteed, there is a possibility that Lee will approach you on her own. If you visit on a schedule that allows you to enjoy the outdoors, you can have a typical Yamanakako time even on days when the cats are resting.
