Kanko Ryokan Yamato

I really enjoyed the two large Ofuro (Japanese-style baths). The owner was very friendly, and I'd happily stay here again.

The inn has a striking view and gave us a very traditional Ryokan experience. Breakfast was top-notch, though there was too much for us. When we asked for a smaller portion, they handled it beautifully. The innkeeper even grows the vegetables herself. If you aren't driving, you can take the cable car up to the inn instead of climbing a small mountain. Just be careful with the directions: the inn isn't at the parking location shown. We climbed a lot of stairs with our three suitcases before realizing we were in the wrong place.

The hostess was warm and welcoming, and the room had a lovely view. It was wonderfully quiet at night. The location is convenient, too, with Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka all reachable within an hour.

Yamato is run by such sweet, kind people, and the view alone is worth every yen. I'd planned to spend time in Osaka City and Nara, but once I was here, I mostly wanted to relax in Ikoma. Ikoma itself is gorgeous and seems to have everything you need. I can see why it's become a successful satellite suburb for Osaka commuters, even if it isn't on many foreign travelers' radar. Sincerity and earnestness matter to me, and those words fit Yamato well. I hope I can return someday.