Tenryukyo Onsen Hidden Inn in the Valley Kyosen

Although it was a stay at the end of summer, it became the perfect finale to our summer vacation. The Accommodation was spotless, the Room was spacious and comfortable, and the view of the Tenryu River from the Room was outstanding. The dining was also highly refined: themed as “Tenryukyo Jukyo,” inspired by Tenryukyo’s “ten delights,” it offered a wonderfully satisfying course in both quality and quantity—from soba at the start to grilled eggplant, snow trout sashimi, grilled eel-style carp, ayu sweetfish, filet meat, and shiso sorbet. It rained on the day we stayed, but by the next morning it held up enough for us to take about an hour-long walk along the river before breakfast. The scenery from the suspension bridge is an irreplaceable beauty. I felt this is an Accommodation where everything—Facility, service, meals, and location—is exceptional. Next time I would like to visit during the autumn foliage season.

I’d been putting off a visit because it isn’t the easiest place to reach from the city center, but this time I decided to go—and I’m so glad I did.It was incredibly relaxing, and absolutely worth the long journey.Perhaps because of the age restriction, there were no children, so we could enjoy a quiet stay. It’s a calm, adults-only style retreat.We stayed two nights in the Musasabi room. The view from the window was wonderful, and we could enjoy beautiful Tenryukyo Gorge all day long.Morning coffee while looking out over the valley—and an ice-cold beer after a bath in the daytime—were simply unbeatable.(I’d be happy to pay extra if several kinds of alcoholic drinks could be stocked in the fridge; it would save having to request room service.)The free-flowing natural hot spring bath was excellent as expected—my skin felt wonderfully smooth. I lost count of how many times I soaked.As others have mentioned in their reviews, the meals were truly outstanding. The vegetables from Southern Shinshu were vibrant and flavorful, and I was impressed by the chef’s great sense and creativity. Personally, I recommend staying multiple nights so you can fully enjoy the dining experience.The only reason I didn’t give full marks is that insects do appear from time to time. That said, it’s surrounded by nature so it’s understandable, and whenever something came up, staff responded quickly—so even those who aren’t fond of bugs should be fine.However, because connectivity is poor, it can be difficult to reach staff via the in-room tablet phone. Having an internal landline phone would feel more reassuring for guests.Also, amenities are quite minimal, so women may want to bring their own toiletries and personal items.I listed some requests above, but overall we were extremely satisfied.I’d love to return in another season. Thank you very much for taking care of us!