Asaba

I have stayed in Shuzenji at Yagyu-no-Sho and at Sora next door, but this was my first stay at Asaba.　The moment I arrived and stepped into the entrance, a pond and a Noh stage opened up before me—an overwhelming view. I also noticed the pleasant scent of wood and the crisp, refined air. I assume everything is kept impeccably clean. Our Room was in the second-lowest price range, but it still had a view of the Noh stage, and with two adjoining rooms it felt very comfortable.　Both the staff member who guided us to our Room and handled check-in, and the attendant who served dinner and breakfast, were courteous yet pleasantly friendly, which helped me relax. Some luxury top-tier Accommodations have staff who make guests feel tense, but that was not the case here.　Dinner made it clear that each dish was prepared with great care. The soft-shelled turtle winter melon soup and the horse mackerel sashimi were outstanding. However, as others have mentioned, since the grilled dish was sweetfish and the rice was also sweetfish rice, I would have preferred a sea fish for the grilled course.　I used the large public bath about twice without running into anyone, so I could unwind in peace. The in-room bath was also very comfortable. I spent time in the salon before dinner on day one and after breakfast on day two; it was wonderfully quiet there, so I could relax while looking out over the pond and Noh stage.　I would like to stay again in a different season.

Asaba, a place I had long admired.Having watched videos and the like, my expectations were very high.Even so, the hospitality exceeded anything I had imagined, and I became convinced that Asaba represents the pinnacle of Japanese hospitality.The staff were not only polite; every single person was clearly mindful of true “hospitality” and proper conduct, and it was consistently upheld throughout.The other guests staying there were also all very refined. Greetings were exchanged everywhere—throughout the property and even in the baths—and it was a valuable learning experience for me as well.Dining was equally meticulous, down to the choice of plates, serving temperatures, and pacing. The explanations of each dish were also pleasant to listen to. You truly preserve the traditions of Japanese cuisine; while I’m still young and not in a position to judge, I savored each course and enjoyed it immensely. It was such a wonderful time that it naturally made me feel humble.The Onsen is fed directly from the source as well. I felt refreshed both physically and mentally.Most striking of all is the Noh stage seen across the pond. The Nishikigoi swam beautifully, captivating me both day and night.At night in particular, lanterns are floated on the pond—it’s truly magical, like a dream—and I found myself gazing at it for ages.I definitely want to return someday.I believe this is an Accommodation where you will never feel disappointed—even when staying for a special occasion.