Moegino Sansou

I stayed in early summer and would like to come back when it's cold and snowy. This cozy mountain lodge in Hara Village's villa area only takes two groups a day, so you can relax in the quiet natural surroundings. The mountain-loving owner cooks a satisfying dinner with seasonal ingredients. I also really liked the dining room, with its hearth and bouldering wall that rises to the roof. The owner's care shows in the space. The rooms are a bit small, and it's better to bathe at the nearby hot spring facility, so I'm giving it four stars, though I was very satisfied with the stay.

The stars were beautiful at night, and the inn's warm, cozy feel suited its lovely surroundings. A nearby hot spring is open for day trips. The owner clearly loves the mountains, with a hearth and what looks like a hobby bouldering wall on the dining room wall. The homemade dishes were all delicious, and the plates made them look even nicer.

Even with Japan's notorious heat, I was comfortable here without air conditioning. The chef's heartfelt cooking made the stay special. Thank you very much.

That antique clock on the living room wall ticked through the night and kept waking me up, since I'm sensitive to noise. Still, this was a unique stay I wouldn't have had anywhere else. The inn is cozy, and the meals are delicious and carefully prepared, enough to satisfy any guest.