ฮิดะ โคคาวะ โทเก็นเคียว ออนเซ็น × โรงแรม·เรียวกังที่มีคะแนนความพึงพอใจสูง

This is a Japanese-style suite reached by stairs. As you enter, folk-art furniture sits on the wooden-floored entry area; open the vermilion-lacquered double-sided kumiko shoji framed by carefully crafted natural-wood pillars and rails, and you step into a tatami Room scented with fresh rush. Seasonal hanging scrolls and flowers, and a large low table complete the setting. From the wide north-facing window, you can see the river surface and the temple’s great roof. By the window are a box hibachi used as a table and a small rocking chair. At the back of the south-side wooden-floored area, it seems an extension has been added: a large, bright bath area (a thick, oversized hinoki cypress tub big enough for about four people to soak together, washing space, footbath, and washbasin). Through the glass door you can view mountain ridges; open it to step onto the veranda and feel the breeze. The water flows continuously 24/7 despite concerns about humidity affecting wooden construction. Everything is kept very clean and well maintained—an indulgent bathing experience. After finishing an excellent meal at a calm small dining room table facing the garden, we returned to find our futons laid out. A bed would be easier, but it would probably feel out of place in this Room. I adjusted the futon orientation to my preference. In addition to air conditioning there is also a gas fan heater, so it should stay warm even in winter. Renovation work seems to be progressing in stages, and I’m looking forward to seeing newly refurbished Rooms.

Upon arrival, your son—nearly three years old now—welcomed us with a cheerful “Welcome.” His slightly shy expression was so adorable that it instantly brought a smile to our faces. Having known him since he was a baby, seeing him again each year is one of the reasons we keep coming back. This time we stayed in the Room “Hagoromo.” From the spacious veranda, we could lie back at night and gaze up at a sky full of stars. Spending time there in the pleasant evening breeze, pleasantly tipsy after dinner and drinks, felt like pure luxury. The cuisine was a summer herbal course. The mousse-like sauce made with herbal broth had a distinctive depth of flavor—I couldn’t resist asking for a spoon and enjoyed every last drop. The tomato simmered in herbal broth and served chilled also had more of a Western touch than before, making it an elegant and refreshing dish. The happy-hour herbal-syrup frappe was perfect for cooling down after our walk; it felt truly reviving. The morning coffee also tasted exceptional, so I asked about it and learned they use rare peaberry beans. Because only one bean develops instead of the usual two, the flavor is said to be more concentrated—and I was told the owner carefully roasts them from green beans himself. I was deeply impressed to see the same sincere dedication found in their herbal cuisine reflected in their coffee as well. Once again during our meal, the proprietress spoke with us warmly by our side. I started writing Reviews after last year’s visit, and looking back, I realized that Accommodations I rated highly always shared one thing: heartfelt hospitality with true attention to detail. This Accommodation embodies that better than anywhere else—and I feel that even more strongly now.

The staff, Facility, and meals were all beyond expectations and absolutely wonderful. There was a wide variety of welcome drinks, along with a coffee maker and tea provided. We also enjoyed welcome sweets, including daifuku. For breakfast, we had Japanese cuisine, which was surprisingly delicious. Every side dish was so tasty that we wished for more rice! It was such a delightful experience. We would love to stay here again!

Our family of four stayed here. Dinner featured local cuisine we had never tried before, which was a fun experience and absolutely delicious. The Hida beef steak was very tender, with sweet, rich fat—highly satisfying. There was a minor issue with the air conditioner, but we truly appreciate your sincere and attentive response. Our whole family enjoyed both the Accommodation and the streetscape of Hida-Furukawa. We would love to stay again.

The exterior is a two-story house, while the interior features a rescue cat shelter and accommodation with a warehouse-style design. Staff are always on-site to care for the cats. The accommodation feels like an added bonus. It is in a condominium style, fully equipped with a kitchen, refrigerator, tableware, and detergent. Water in the refrigerator is free of charge. Alcoholic beverages are also available at very affordable supermarket-level prices. Guests can cook if they bring their own ingredients. The TV allows access to YouTube and other streaming services. The bathroom does not have reheating functionality, and there is a strong odor from the drainpipe. The sauna outside was not used during our stay. The toilet is clean, and the washroom offers hotel-quality amenities. Original pajamas (top and bottom) are provided for each guest. For multiple night stays, linen changes are available upon request. The shelter area connects via an enclosed corridor with double locks; it can be accessed freely between 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Guests can assist with breakfast or dinner preparation for the cats if desired; however, as nearly 60 cats live together in one room, there is quite a strong smell present throughout that area. If doors to the accommodation section are left open, odors may spread into that space as well. While functional as a shelter facility for rescued cats, it cannot be described as entirely hygienic—cleaning of litter boxes appears infrequent. Please note this location operates differently from "cat cafes," so expectations should align accordingly. In conclusion: unless you absolutely adore cats beyond measure—this experience might not suit everyone’s preferences! However passionate feline enthusiasts will likely find themselves returning repeatedly despite challenges faced amidst what could only humorously yet aptly described perhaps akin-to-a-cat-heaven-or-chaos scenario!