Takefue

The food was a delight, especially the horse meat and fish. The baths had beautiful landscaping and were so well designed that spending time in them felt like being in a movie or a book. I spent a lot of time researching the best Onsen in Japan for my partner and me, and Takefue lived up to the expectations because of its beauty and privacy. We had a lovely stay and will come back when we're in Japan again.

I came with friends this time and had high expectations since it was my first visit. Honestly, I was a bit disappointed. I quite liked the bath in the room and the foot bath. The meal was good, though not extraordinary for the price I paid. Some staff gave excellent service, but English wasn't fluent. Because of the hotel's landscape, they have to run around and work really hard to handle room service and luggage, and I didn't feel comfortable watching that. Since most guests have meals in their rooms, there was an old food smell in the room that I didn't like.

The views and food were the bright spots for me. The landscape and outdoor onsen scenery are distinctive and picturesque, and the meals were quite good, as expected. But the service fell short of what I'd expect from a high-end ryokan. My assigned room was extremely small. I also noticed the official website doesn't list room dimensions, which would help future guests. Our main attendant, a Japanese male staff member, spoke almost no English. Using translation software is understandable, but the communication gap caused real problems. I wasn't told about hotel activities like musical performances or the Christmas party, and missing that information diminished our stay. The attendant also seemed inexperienced and disorganized. After dinner, he left the used dishes and condiments uncleared. At checkout, other guests received Kuma Mon gifts, but we didn't, and he couldn't clearly explain why. I had prepaid for a special soft-shelled turtle dish, then was told on arrival that I had to order two portions. I asked to cancel, but despite the cancellation, the hotel still hasn't refunded my money. I'd just stayed at another high-end ryokan in Kumamoto, Moonlight No Ki, where the service was incredibly attentive. The difference was stark. For one of Kyushu's most expensive hot spring hotels, the service and payment handling were unacceptable.

With only 12 suites, Takafue offers a serene, luxurious stay built around the existing landscape. Every suite has its own private onsen, and the property blends nature with a sense of exclusivity. The service was attentive without feeling intrusive. Details like warm towels and premium Aesop amenities made everything feel seamless. There are also bookable private onsens and a beautiful spa, alongside the one in your suite. It felt like indulgence in Japanese elegance, and an unforgettable stay.