Kappo Ryokan Wakamatsu

I stayed at this Accommodation at the end of June.Overall, I was extremely satisfied.At check-in, I was served delicious matcha. The staff were great to talk to and showed thoughtful, subtle hospitality. The meals I had been looking forward to were truly wonderful in both presentation and taste. The salted squid served at breakfast was especially delicious. I also enjoyed the bath while listening to the sound of the waves.Thank you very much.

On the first night, we stayed near the lively Hakodate Station area. Dinner at an izakaya was fine and tasty enough, but to end our trip we wanted a good Onsen and delicious meals, so we chose this Accommodation.We were soothed by the atmosphere unique to a long-established Ryokan and by the warm hospitality of the staff. Both dinner and breakfast left us completely satisfied. Even amid global warming and today’s wave of price increases, we could feel the chef’s heartfelt care in every dish, and we enjoyed it with deep gratitude. The traditional tableware was also beautiful, making each bite even more enjoyable.In the bath area, ancient hinoki cypress is used in key places, filling the space with a wonderful fragrance. According to an information board, two massive logs—about 2 meters in diameter and 200–250 years old—had remained submerged deep under the sea for some 2,000 years after falling while still alive. Because of this, they did not decay; their natural components were preserved within the old wood and gently released into the bathing space. The water temperature was just right—comfortable and not taxing on the heart—so we could soak with peace of mind.The Room had two Japanese-style rooms with low beds, which were very comfortable.Because of the layout—with some distance to reach the toilet—guests with mobility issues or those who need frequent nighttime bathroom visits may find it slightly inconvenient at first. Once accustomed to it, however, there is a changing area, a bedroom, and even a tea-ceremony-style preparation space; overall it felt like a thoughtfully designed setting full of character.The TV was not one of today’s large-screen models; it sat in one corner of a spacious veranda furnished with wicker chairs. We took that as part of the travel charm.After bathing before bed, I really wanted to watch soccer news while lying down; by sliding one side of the shoji partition over, I managed to find an angle where I could watch.Some people may prefer modern luxury Hotels above all else—but this stay reminded us how enjoyable it can be to sense an Accommodation’s spirit while savoring rich local character. It was a wonderful experience.The view from the large dining hall was stunning: windows designed like framed paintings transformed everything from evening waves rolling in to midnight-black moonlit scenery into something like Japanese art. We were truly moved.We occasionally saw other guests inside—from older travelers to young people—some in groups and some solo. We found their choice reassuringly tasteful.To all of you who handled what must be one of the most demanding roles—the meal service—thank you for your gracious hospitality in kimono that suited each person so well!When we left this Accommodation and were seen off by everyone in such classic fashion as only Japan does best, something warm stirred inside me as Japanese.Thank you very much for taking such good care of us.