Yoshino Jingu Station × Stays Popular For Snow-View BathsHighly rated for dining at Hotel·Ryokan

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.

Perhaps because there was availability on a weekday, they upgraded us to a larger Room. We were very satisfied with the open, airy Room and the mountain views from the large windows in our corner Room. The meals were all delicious, with plenty of dishes, and we left completely full. It was our first time trying venison—it was tender and excellent. The bath and the entire property were clean and very pleasant.

When we arrived at the bus stop, Mr. Kuboji was there to pick us up by car. We hadn’t requested it, but since it was raining, his thoughtfulness made us very happy. The Room was spacious, and although three of us stayed, we were able to relax comfortably. The meals were delicious, and we had a wonderful time. The warm, home-like atmosphere was the best.

It wasn’t like the Hotels I’ve stayed at before or a fully equipped Ryokan, but it had a relaxing atmosphere and warm hospitality. There is no toilet or washbasin in the Room, so it may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. There was a piano in the Room—are guests allowed to play it? The Onsen is spacious enough for two people to enjoy comfortably, and you can also use it as a private bath without making a Reservation. On the second day, checkout was at 12:00, so we could take our time. They also stored our luggage while we went to collect Gorogoro Water and visit Godaimatsu Limestone Cave, which made sightseeing much easier. The elderly gentleman kindly said, “It’s hot down below, so please take care of yourself.” After returning to Osaka, I somehow felt lighter and full of energy! It was a mysterious place—somewhere between the world below and heaven.