Ryokan Beniayu

From the time we arrived at the JR station until we left, the staff took care of everything. It’s a rare ryokan to find with an in-room onsen, meals served in the room, and Japanese-style bedding. The view was breathtaking, the amenities excellent, and the staff attentive. The meals were outstanding too. Beniayu puts a lot of care into its food, with kaiseki choices based on season and price. We picked a mid-range option, and it was spectacular for presentation, variety, and flavor. The chef kept to the traditional kaiseki style while adding some modern ideas and creativity. They also served a selection of locally produced sake. Our stay at Beniayu felt magical. It’s such a gem that part of me wants to keep it secret, but it deserves recognition. I can’t wait to return.

The staff were all so friendly and kind, and went above and beyond. They kindly offered to pick us up at the station. The onsen overlooks the lake and is wonderful; the kaiseki and breakfast were both delicious. The facilities are great, and we had a fantastic one-night stay.

After cycling all day from Mino, this was exactly what I needed. I had an Asahi in the open-air onsen on my balcony, then got a good pummelling in the massage chair while watching birds on Lake Biwa. I won’t forget that experience. The food and service were fantastic too. Highly recommended.

For our honeymoon, this was our first ryokan stay. The staff were friendly and very professional, the meals were fine-cuisine quality, and the setting was idyllic. The private onsen is ideal if public baths make you feel self-conscious. We had to leave before the free shuttle, which picks guests up at Takatsuki station, started running, so the staff booked us a taxi for the time we requested. I highly recommend it, and we’ll be back on our next stay.