Waterside Cottage Heron

The meal was wonderful, with fresh seasonal vegetables prepared beautifully, like farm or garden straight to the plate. There were simple dishes with clever touches, such as persimmon gratin topped with roasted goat cheese. The room was larger than I expected from the photos, and I loved sitting by the canal and watching the river. The owner, her daughter, I think, and their friend were all so kind and attentive. I had a good feeling before arriving and the place exceeded what I expected. I came back for a second visit, this time with family, and will definitely return.

The rooms and setting felt luxurious and relaxing, right beside the inlet from the bay. We spotted lots of wildlife, including a manta ray and its baby. The food was so delicious, I'd give it six stars if I could.

Waterside Cottage Herson sits right by the canal leading out to Kumihama Bay, and also serves lunch and dinner. I had a fantastic meal there featuring local oysters. My fried oysters came with handmade potato salad, fresh vegetables, diced fruit, and shredded cabbage salad. The meal started with cauliflower pottage and fresh-baked bread, then ended with coffee or tea. I ordered lemon cake topped with fresh lemon curd with my tea. There was crab paella for two, but it takes around 50 minutes to prepare, so I didn't order it. At the time, February 2020, lunch and a drink cost 1650 yen per person, the paella for two was 3850 yen, and the cake was 550 yen. I also liked the open layout and wood-burning stove.

There isn't any food, and it's a long walk from Toyo-Oka station. Still, if you don't mind the distance, it's a nice place to have a drink.