Kanpei Sushi — Restaurant in Fuji

Best dining experience in Japan, so far. Run by a lovely man and lady who are the chefs. Small bar with space for 6 people to sit, plus a raised tatami seating area (kneeling around a low table) for small groups (up to 4) which we were seated at. A mixture of locals and travellers came in while we were waiting and eating. The atmosphere was friendly so everyone chatted. We got by with our limited Japanese (my friend has JLPT 5 and has lived in Japan for 4 months and managed to hold some light conversation). The owners were very friendly and seemed to take a genuine interest in us, which felt very special. It may be difficult to start a conversation if you haven't done any study, but they can definitely talk you through the menu in English and with some improvised sign language. There are menus translated into English on the wall. Just sitting and listening to the Japanese guests talking while we waited for food was lovely, then at one point, one of the regulars turned to gesture to us and said "shizuka, desune" (they're quiet, aren't they?), wanting to get us involved in conversation as well.

I've never really had sushi before. I hate fish, I really don't like the taste, normally. I think I'm very sensitive to the fishy taste it develops if it isn't exceptionally fresh, but in this mixed platter there was only one piece that wrinkled my nose. Everything was very fresh and very tasty. I was surprised that I was able to enjoy fish this much.

Price 2700円 per person, with green tea served alongside at no extra cost. They also serve beer and sake (which we didn't try). I think maybe it is more expensive than some places but well worth it for the atmosphere we experienced.

After our meal, the lady running the shop gave us each a little gift (which I assume isn't necessarily guaranteed when you visit). Mine is a cloth/tea towel with the names of fish in kanji and romanji.

A truly special evening, perhaps my best ever...

The sushi has to be hands down the very best I have ever tried in Japan, let alone in any other continent (and I eat a lot of sushi)! The 80 year old sushi chef and his wife have been the epitome of Japanese hospitality if one has ever experienced it. They made us feel so welcomed, their company, the food, the atmosphere and the whole experience has to be absolutely top notch. An absolute must-try for anyone...

Phenomenal meal hosted by two phenomenal hosts!

A husband-wife duo welcomed in a traveler with little Japanese capabilities and made me feel right at home.

The quality of the sushi was amazing, felt like it was freshly caught.

Thank you for a meal that felt like my aunt/uncle were taking care of...