Onsen Garden Yumoto Ann Kiyohime

We booked the two-story suite for three nights, with four beds, a floor-to-ceiling projection screen, and indoor and outdoor baths. It felt luxurious and was the highlight of our trip. The minibar was free and replenished each day with local beer, sake, soft drinks, and even iced green tea. Both the daily kaiseki dinners and breakfasts were amazing, and I wish we could have stayed longer. Everyone was so friendly, from the housekeeping and dining staff to the reception team, who would jog over to greet us when we returned to the car. With the high price tag, I still felt we got good value.

The ryokan is close enough to the airport that we could relax until nearly the last minute before heading there. Dinner and breakfast were both very, very tasty, and the food was presented beautifully. It was also kid-friendly, with bathing toys for children and hanabi to play with at night.

We chose this hotel for its private onsen rooms, and the room looked brand new, with a fantastic outdoor onsen. The traditional eight-course Japanese meal was good, and they accommodated my wife's vegetarian requests at the last minute. In a small town, it was a nice place to get away from the crowds and relax. The staff were incredibly professional and friendly, and made a real effort to communicate in English using technology.

A quiet, private onsen stay, with a brand-new room design, tasty meals, and staff who were helpful.