Sasayuri-Ann

The rating of only two stars is seriously misleading. We arrived to beautiful grounds with several separate, multiroom cottages, surrounded by immaculate Zen gardens and kept in perfect condition. Every detail felt carefully handled, from the welcome to the outdoor terraces for sunrise and sunset and the koi ponds. The shabu shabu was the finest meal we’ve had in Japan, and the people running the place are fantastic and clearly care about it. My wife and I are Americans looking for different experiences in this wonderful country, not local guides, but we’d rank this property alongside the finest places we’ve stayed anywhere. We only had one night and wished we’d stayed longer. If we’re lucky enough to return to Japan, we’ll definitely come back.

The meals were incredible, and the owner and his family were so lovely and helpful. My wife and I recently stayed in this stunning villa, with landscaping and woodwork among the most beautiful we’ve ever seen. It was easily the highlight of our trip to Japan. We’d highly recommend it!

The villa’s calm setting and mountain views made it a real escape from everyday pressures, and I found myself drawn to its tranquility. Every detail, from the sand and stones to the objects around the villa, felt thoughtfully placed, with such taste and precision. I can’t remember seeing a more beautiful place in my life. It has a wonderful Zen-like elegance. I’d booked the Ozunu (The second villa) for one day, but as soon as I arrived, I asked Matsubayashi-san if I could extend my stay for another night. Matsubayashi-san and his wife made us a sumptuous shabu-shabu dinner over an irori the first night. The next evening we had a healthy, delicious farm-to-table Japanese-European meal with fresh produce from the farm around the villa. Breakfast also included fresh fruit and vegetables from nearby. Matsubayashi-san is both a businessman and a mountain monk (Yamabushi), and he shared what he knows about meditation, concentration, and Japanese culture. We also joined a flower arrangement session with his wife, where he explained ikenobo and its origins. They were both lovely, respectful, and kind. I hope I get to see them again soon. Thanks for having us.

The family who run this place were so welcoming and kind. We stayed in a gorgeous traditional-style villa that had been renovated beautifully, with views over terraced rice paddies and a picturesque mountain range. On our first night they made us a private shabu shabu dinner with delicious local beef. Thank you for having us!