Inn Hanaya Tokubei

We stayed here as a couple during the Obon holidays. Even though it was the hottest time of midsummer, Tenkawa Village was wonderfully cool—a top summer retreat in Kansai where we could stay comfortable without using the Room air conditioner and without breaking a sweat. We had long admired the charm of Dorogawa Onsen and had wanted to stay there at least once, and choosing Hanaya Tokubei was absolutely the right decision. The whole town has a lovely atmosphere, but Tokubei stands out for its especially distinctive and tasteful building.Because there are few guest Rooms with private indoor baths in the area, we stayed in “Higashi no Tenku” with an indoor bath. The view is mostly of the courtyard, so if you are used to resort-style Onsen facilities it may not exceed expectations. Still, considering this is traditionally an Accommodation used by ascetics, we felt it was a true luxury and enjoyed it.The meals were delicious Japanese cuisine featuring plenty of local ingredients, with thoughtful touches throughout that kept our Multiple Night Stay from ever feeling repetitive. We were completely full but couldn’t bear to leave anything behind—and finished every last bite.Spending time on the veranda at dusk with a beer in hand while watching people pass by was simply wonderful. After sunset, strolling around the area in yukata is also great fun. Wherever you walk, the lantern lights feel magical, and Tokubei lends out portable lanterns as well. It was like stepping back into a period drama.There were also foreign staff members, and they were genuinely kind and attentive—we truly appreciated it.This is an Accommodation we would love to visit again. Highly recommended if you are sightseeing in Dorogawa Onsen.

The service was attentive, and the locally sourced meals were delicious. Although it took some time to get there, we had a wonderful stay where we could truly experience the great outdoors and the purity of the water.