Kasen-An Seni Onsen Iwa no Yu

A last-minute cancellation opened up, and I was truly lucky to get a Reservation at this Accommodation—often said to be “the hardest to book in Japan.”I’ve stayed at many Onsen Ryokan across Japan, and I think this one is the best.From the parking lot to the Room, I was surrounded by beautiful greenery the entire way. It was such an atmospheric Ryokan—like stepping into another world. At check-in, enjoying the greenery and the sound of the river while having delicious welcome snacks instantly made me forget the day’s busyness, fatigue, and even the intense summer heat. It felt as if time had stopped, and I became completely calm.The Room was spacious and spotless, and it even had a CD player, so I could truly relax.The indoor bath, their signature cave bath (“Cave Onsen”), and “Musou,” a private Onsen—all of them were outstanding.The food was probably the most delicious meal experience I’ve ever had during any stay. In particular, the salt-grilled ayu sweetfish, brown rice soup, and Shinshu Orein pork shoulder loin were exceptional.After check-out, it was also fun to take a walk along the promenade trail.Thank you to all the staff for your kind hospitality.This is an Accommodation that exceeds expectations—I had a deeply satisfying stay. Now I understand why it’s so hard to get a Reservation. I’d love to come back in another season!

It was a wonderful Accommodation surrounded by greenery. Because we could take our time during meals, we ended up completely full, but it reminded me that this is how dining is meant to be enjoyed. The bath was also incredibly relaxing. The Accommodation itself offers very generous space per guest, creating a true sense of openness, and the beautifully maintained garden trees and the gentle sound of the river were wonderfully soothing. Above all, the staff’s warm, unpretentious hospitality made us want to return in a different season.