Takenoya

The hotel has been fully remodeled and feels clean and elegant, and the staff were friendly and very capable. The kaiseki dinner was superb.

I had a comfortable stay in a nice inn. The room was clean, the customer service was good, and everything made the visit enjoyable.

The old-style atmosphere was great, and the service was comfortable. Dinner was just so-so, though.

The meals were delicious and beautifully presented, and I was very pleased with both dinner and breakfast. The menu had combinations that ranged from reliably tasty to surprisingly good. I regretted eating too much at lunch to order the sake tasting. Breakfast looked simple at first, but the seasoning and presentation were gentle and carefully done. I thought I might not manage it after dinner, but I finished everything, and I was glad they offered more clam miso soup. Staff quickly picked up on what we needed during the meal and adjusted naturally. Sometimes they chatted with us, and sometimes they kept conversation brief. I was impressed by how well they read the mood. Their movements and gestures were polite, and the restaurant felt relaxed. The balance of luxury, friendliness, and courtesy made the service comfortable. I stayed alone, so the room was almost too spacious. The sofa was so cozy I couldn't help rolling around on it. The bathroom had a shower and a somewhat small bathtub, and its soft, non-slip floor seemed safe in an emergency. The shrine is only a few minutes away on foot, so it felt safe in any weather. Being so close meant I could visit in the evening, early the next morning, and during the day. I called ahead, and they offered to keep my luggage. If I visit Izumo Taisha again, I'll stay here.