Tazawa Station × Accommodation With An Animal Crossing-Like WorldHighly rated for rooms and amenities at Hotel·Ryokan

Obuse, the town of Hokusai and chestnuts, is known for its beautiful streetscape that feels almost like a theme park. We arrived a little early by car, so we visited Gansho-in Temple and Jokoji Temple before heading to Masuichi Kyakuden. The ceiling painting at Gansho-in—Katsushika Hokusai’s “Phoenix Glancing in All Directions”—was truly breathtaking. As soon as we pulled up in front of Masuichi Kyakuden, a staff member came right out and promptly carried our luggage inside. The hugely popular and notoriously hard-to-book “Chestnut Dessert Suzaku” will be available from 9/10 this year; since guests staying at Masuichi Kyakuden receive priority guaranteed access, Reservations for the Accommodation also become difficult after 9/10. Because we stayed before then, it was easy to secure our stay. Stepping inside Masuichi Kyakuden, you’re immediately enveloped by the stately atmosphere of the kura storehouse building. Our Room was on the second floor—we chose the relaxing twin—and despite being in a kura-style structure, it even has a terrace with plenty of sunlight, making it bright and open. We were told there are other Rooms with an even calmer, more traditional kura feel; however, all are designed with high ceilings to avoid any sense of confinement. Designed by architect John Morford, the Room is fully Western-style with extensive use of stainless steel; the glass-and-stainless bath is well worth seeing. Amenities are L’Occitane, there are complimentary drinks in the refrigerator along with coffee and tea—everything you’d expect from a high-end Ryokan—and overall the Room is very comfortable. For dinner, we walked about three minutes to Obusedo Main Store (part of the same Masuichi group). Every dish showcased the chef’s experience and refined sensibility. The soup course, simmered dishes, and grilled items had a Kyoto kaiseki influence—above all else, the dashi was exceptional. The sashimi was fresh and perfectly seasoned as well. They also made good use of local ingredients throughout, which made for a highly satisfying meal. Note that the first dishes served—blanched Kurakake beans and Matsumae-zuke—are not part of the course menu (just so you know). They’re clearly meant as snacks for alcohol—especially sake brewed by Masuichi Ichimura Sake Brewery within the same group—and they pair beautifully: firm Kurakake beans soaked in elegant dashi alongside Matsumae-zuke packed with seafood umami go perfectly with slowly sipped Masuichi sake. In autumn Obuse becomes all about chestnuts; while we couldn’t try “Chestnut Dessert Suzaku,” we did get to enjoy “Mont Blanc Suzaku,” a Western-style take on Suzaku. It’s available at their affiliated shop “Entotsu,” but just when we were about to give up due to long lines, we learned that overnight guests can make Reservations—so we were able to enjoy it without waiting. If you stay at Masuichi Kyakuden, be sure to treat yourself to one of their chestnut sweets featuring “Suzaku.” Overall it was an excellent stay—we thoroughly enjoyed Obuse.

This trip was to celebrate my mother’s birthday. She requested to see the Onsen she had visited with my late father during their honeymoon, and also the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park. We chose this Accommodation because Reviews repeatedly mentioned the private family bath and a homey, relaxing atmosphere. True to the Reviews, it was a wonderfully quiet and peaceful place. The warm glow of washi paper lamps displayed throughout was beautiful, and we could feel the proprietress’s thoughtful care in every detail. And the food—absolutely delicious! Dinner just kept coming (laugh). Every dish was freshly made and served hot. The best of all was the kake soba hand-made by the chef that very morning. I love soba and visit many places, but I’m sorry—this was truly the best I’ve ever had anywhere. Breakfast also made us happy with piping-hot dashimaki tamago. The highlight of breakfast was the miso soup—I wanted to take home the whole pot. As we’ve gotten older, we choose our trips carefully based on both meals and Accommodation quality, and this place offered outstanding value for money. More than anything, we made unforgettable memories here. On our way out, I bought one of the lamps that were on display at the Accommodation as a gift for my mother. Thanks to you, it became the best birthday present possible. We’ll come again in winter—and again for her birthday next year too. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to listen kindly to my mother’s stories (＾ω＾)

The owner was very kind and gave us a warm welcome. They recommended many wonderful local attractions, such as apple picking, which we thoroughly enjoyed. The Room was spacious enough for one person, very quiet at night, and provided a comfortable stay. Additionally, the **bath (bathtub)** allowed me to relax as if I were at home. I would love to stay here again if I have the chance!

It was quiet and relaxing, and we were able to unwind comfortably. The breakfast was also very delicious. Thank you very much.

I was able to use the day-use Onsen Facility, and in such a nature-rich setting, I truly felt refreshed. Breakfast was reasonably priced as well, and I had a comfortable stay—next time, I’d like to plan my trip so I can stay a bit longer.