Daimaru Besso

I stayed here while visiting home from Tokyo, also to celebrate my mother’s birthday. I consulted with the staff in advance about celebrating my 84-year-old mother, and on the day you kindly prepared a signboard at the dining area, special dishes, and even a cake—thank you very much. My mother was deeply moved and teared up, saying it would be “a keepsake for the afterlife,” and the surprise was a great success. I had already known how wonderful the Onsen water quality is, and since it’s easy to reach from my family home and has convenient access from the airport as well, I’d love to stay again. We were also lucky enough to see fireflies unexpectedly, making it a memorable stay for both of us. Thank you for taking such good care of us.

First, getting there: I took an express bus. The lonely staircase down from the highway made my heart race a bit, but the Accommodation was just a short walk away. On the way back, I chose the train since it’s easier to plan around. The station is a bit far, so I took a taxi. There were lots of traffic lights and it took longer than expected—1,500 yen. If I had to name one drawback, it would be that access by train isn’t great.Since this is an Accommodation where His Majesty the Emperor has stayed, it has a very prestigious atmosphere.Check-in was smooth. The staff’s demeanor was wonderful, and their kimono were beautiful. Service was refined, quick, and excellent.The Room was spacious, impeccably cleaned and spotless. The high ceilings made it very comfortable, and the in-room bath had a lovely hinoki cypress scent. It was the most reasonably priced option and I was completely satisfied. The tea sweets were delicious too.The amenities were surprisingly high quality across the board. Even the toothbrush had just the right softness and felt great to use—I brought my own but ended up using theirs.The futon provided firm point support with perfect firmness, and even the pillow was adjustable—flawless.Dinner was served in a private room with its own entrance like something you’d find at a traditional restaurant. We didn’t upgrade anything in particular; every dish was carefully prepared—not typical pre-made frozen kaiseki items you often see elsewhere. Everything was outstanding. The portions were just right for someone who enjoys drinking sake as well. The rice cooked in an earthenware pot was delicious both at dinner and breakfast—fully satisfying.The Onsen had both cooler and warmer areas so I could relax at length. It’s free-flowing from the source and overflowed generously—it felt amazing. I think I soaked 4 or 5 times.Overall, this is an exceptional Accommodation, and I would absolutely love to visit again.