Getting off at Daigatake bus stop, it was in the middle of the hill directly opposite. But it took us a while to find as we didn't see the signpost. Here we go at the entrance of the Ryokan. It was so peaceful and quiet.
Kinnotake 金乃竹
Because of the name "金乃竹", bamboos were found all over the Ryokan for decoration. This was the reception. We took our shoes off before stepping in. On pressing the bell, the hostess appeared with a welcoming smile and said that they were waiting for us for a long time!
We were then taken to our room "HARUKA (遥)". There are only 10 guest rooms in this Ryokan and each room has different layouts and features. All of the rooms have a private onsen (hot spring bath).
Entering the room, the toilet was on the left. Again super high tech.
Our room was beautifully designed with 2 floors. The lounge and toilet were downstairs while the bedroom with the in-room onsen upstairs. The Japanese lady gave us a tour of the bedroom and confirmed the dinner time we wanted. Then the room was all ours. I couldn't wait but ran up the stairs to see the onsen.
WOW!!!! That was absolutely amazing! The view was breathtaking overlooking the mountains and greenery.
I wanted to jump in at once. There was a shower area on the left which was very convenient.
Next to the bath is the little dressing room with modern design. I like the glass tap. This area was cleverly separated from the bedroom with a glass door.
No need to bring anything. Like all the hotels in Japan, they had all the amenities you could possibly need. They were all branded skincare. Love them!
This was the super huge and comfortable bed.
To enjoy the whole experience of Ryokan genuinely, we also tried on the Yukata. This is the dinning area downstairs where our dinner and breakfast would be served. The view was equally amazing.
Simon looked like a Japanese in Yukata. Haha!
We then started our bathing immediately. For 72,000 yen a night ( about £500), of course we had to make the best of it. With the stunning views, the bathing/soaping was very very relaxing and soulful. That was such a unique and lifetime experience that it was worth every penny.
About 1 hour later, our own personal server started to serve our dinner in our room. She treated us with great respect and courtesy in traditional Japanese manners. e.g. bow everytimes she came in the room or went out of the room, showcasing the best that Japanese hospitality has to offer.
This was our dinner menu. Over 10 course Kaiseki meal which featured seasonal and regional specialties. We were spoiled rotten.
Every dish was presented so beautifully like a piece of art.
So creatively arranged that you don't want to ruin it.
Desserts. I don't remember what they were but they tasted wonderful and a perfect ending to our spectacular dinner.
The whole dinner lasted about 2 hours.
After dinner, we watched TV for a while then started our bathing experience again. I have lost count on how many times we had a bath on that night.
I just booked a room at Kinnotake, thanks to your wonderful review! Just a question, did you leave a tip? I've done research and the answers vary. I know Japan has a "no tipping" custom but with ryokans it seems to depend on the amount you are spending. I appreciate your help!
ReplyDeleteHi, as I heard in Japan tips causes more confusion than appreciaion, we therefore didn't leave tips anywhere in Japan including at the ryokan. Plus I paid the room by credit card. If you feel like it, you can give it a go.
ReplyDeleteYou will love it there at Kinnotake. Have a great time.
Thanks Leeanne! We'll be spending our 4th anniversary there and intend to do half the Hakone Loop prior to Kinnotake and then finishing it up the next day (if there's enough time!).
ReplyDeleteGreat! It's perfect for honeymoon and anniversary. Do get the most of it,if there is not enough time, I would prefer to give that loop a miss and stay at the Ryokan and soak in the onsen.
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