Pondtail

We really loved our time here.

My husband and I stayed at a pension for the first time in a while on November 10, during the autumn leaves season. The scenery was beautiful, and the kind couple looked after us so warmly. The owners were lovely to talk with. After our bath, we enjoyed drinks and tried several kinds of sake, shochu, whiskey, and more. The owner has experience working in Tokyo and is passionate about every ingredient he uses. It was a wonderful time, and we made lovely memories. We’d be happy to return. The room was comfortable and immaculately clean. The bath was private for 40 minutes, with a choice of two clean, beautiful, comfortable ceramic tubs. Because of cost constraints, each room is limited to one bath session. The food was delicious, just as you’d expect from a gourmet inn. We had a wonderful course meal and booked a plan with a bottle of wine, choosing from several varieties. We enjoyed the meal so much that we finished the bottle in no time. The drinks were incredibly reasonable, too.

The owner and his wife made the stay feel easy and pleasant. Their thoughtfulness and attention to detail meant I didn’t feel stressed at all. The food was delicious, as many other reviews have mentioned, and the experience really lived up to the inn’s gourmet reputation. I’d recommend it, though it was fully booked even on a weekday, so it may be smart to reserve early.

The dinner was beautifully presented, and the shrimp appetizer was delicious. I especially liked the burdock quiche so much that I ordered some frozen to take home. We also had bread from a nearby bakery, taro potage, which was new to me and delicious, and Tochigi beef for the main course. The wife made dessert herself and even wrote a sweet surprise message for my husband. The table setting was lovely, too. I know little about wine, but she explained the choices clearly, and the wine we picked was delicious. Breakfast was just as good, with warm bread, carefully chosen fruit, and unlimited coffee and tea. We stayed on February 17 as a Valentine’s Day gift for my husband. The hotel was close to Rinnoji Temple, our destination, and just a few minutes’ drive from Nikko Station. Even so, its quiet setting in the woods made the stay feel special. The room had a charming interior and was cleaned meticulously. I was surprised that the bathroom sinks and other amenities were even more polished than those at newer hotels. The owners’ warm hospitality was exceptional, and I’d definitely return.