Araya Totoan

Our one night at Araya Totoan was the highlight of our honeymoon in Japan. The service and staff made the stay especially memorable. Everyone took real pride in making things enjoyable, and the service was the best we’ve ever experienced. The room and the whole property were pristine. Our room was spacious and comfortable, and the private open-air bath was delightful. We also booked private massages in the room, a perfect way to start the stay. The food was fresh and very good. We loved the kaiseki dinner, with its distinctive flavors and huge amount of food. The wine list had a very good selection of Burgundy and Bordeaux. We chose the Western-style breakfast, which was also very good, and had some of the best croissants I’ve ever eaten. It’s only been a few days, and we’re already dreaming about coming back someday. It really was that special. Run, don’t walk, to stay at Araya Totoan. You won’t regret it.

We had a great stay at this ryokan, which has been in the ryokan business for 17 generations. The location, service, meals, and bath were all great. The price felt a little high, and it’s a small boutique ryokan with only a limited number of rooms. If I could add one thing, it’d be some zabuton cushions in the room. Otherwise, it was a perfect ryokan.

We spent two wonderful nights at Araya Totoan. Our spacious tatami-style living and sleeping area came with a private onsen, and the ryokan has three public onsens, each with its own feel. Every dish was beautifully presented and full of flavor, making the food another highlight. The service really made the experience, especially Ms Miho, who was attentive and professional and went out of her way to help. She checked the train schedule for us, and when I accidentally left my bag in the dining room, she kindly brought it back to our room. Her thoughtfulness made a real difference.

A very prestigious ryokan in front of the main site in Yamashiro. The guests and staff, especially the Okami, felt very authentic. There were also wonderful Kitaoji Rosanjin masterpieces.