Gyokuhokan

The food and service were top notch, and the rooms, gardens, and onsens were all incredible. Such a beautiful location, and a highlight of my whole Japan trip. I won’t forget this stay anytime soon. Definitely recommend.

We booked the dinner and breakfast package and had a great ryokan stay during cherry blossom season. It was pretty expensive then, but felt worth it. The welcome drink and snack were a nice touch, and there’s a free drink coupon for the quaint bar. It has a 1970s retro feel that’s 10/10, though there aren’t many cocktail choices. You can also book a private onsen room. I’d happily come back. One thing to plan for if you don’t drive: checkout is strictly at 11am, and the shuttle takes you to the station, so you can’t really wander around afterward. It’s about 10 minutes from the train station and quite close to a street lined with Sakura trees.

The baths were lovely, and you can reserve one of three private baths for your own use at no charge, depending on availability. Dinner was delicious, with each dish explained to us. Staff were friendly, and some spoke English and could help non-Japanese speakers. They provide samue, a kind of pajama, and yukata, or perhaps a kimono robe, I’m not sure. Ladies can look through other colors and patterns. It’s a bit of a hike from kawazu station. We were impatient waiting for the bus and walked with our luggage, which I would NOT recommend, but that was our choice. During the sakura festival, it’s probably best to explore nearby and come back for the bus, since you’ll likely get there around the same time anyway. I haven’t stayed at other ryokans, so I can’t compare.

The dining was a real highlight, with delicious food made from locally sourced ingredients. They even turn leftover food and rice into rice balls for a late-night snack. Breakfast can be eaten outside, where you can enjoy the Japanese garden. The hospitality was amazing too.