Yamado

We only had one night at this beautiful ryokan, and it was such a memorable stay. The staff were extraordinary. I just wish we'd had a whole week there.

What a fabulous, one-of-a-kind treat! I'd say more, but we're heading off to an outdoor hot spring bath with snow all around us.

The crisp vegetables in the middle of winter were especially good, with such a lovely sweetness. I also enjoyed the service, hospitality, food, and hot springs, and left feeling very satisfied. I do wish the private bath slot had been longer than 30 minutes. I was so caught up enjoying the hot springs that I ran out of time and forgot the pita bread they'd made for me for dinner. I hurried to get ready and left it on the table. I'm sorry about that. The price isn't the sort that makes me say I'll definitely be back, but I do want to visit again. Next time I'll make sure to eat everything.

The quiet was a big part of the appeal, since children under 13 aren't allowed to stay. It's a good place for adults wanting to get away from daily life and properly unwind. I'd been curious about staying at Yamabito for a long time, and the staff's warm, thoughtful welcome from arrival through goodbye made me feel at ease. Every room has a semi-open-air bath fed directly by the hot spring, so you can soak whenever you want while listening to the mountain stream. Dinner was a highlight: creative dishes made with local game and vegetables from the inn's own farm, and each one was a surprise. A peaceful stay with fine food that engaged all five senses.