It’s a sense of romance that’s not lost on Hoshinoya, with cute pavilions tucked among forested hills. Each features picture windows and expansive decks to take full advantage of the charming setting, with some even sited on a bird sanctuary. Inside, a considered aesthetic marries contemporary design with traditional ryokan charm in soaking tubs of and chic, knee-high furnishings.
There’s a similar blend with the accommodation’s dining options. In Kasuke, you’ll be treated to kaiseki-style dining as the finest in Japanese cuisine is perfectly presented across multiple degustation courses while Bleston Court Yukawatan offers more recognisable dishes. Here, French menus showcase Japan’s love for the finest in European dining.
That said, the retreat’s amenities are quintessentially Japanese. There are teahouse libraries, onsen hot springs and nature tracks animated by flying squirrels and native birds. There are even horse riding trails. In addition to the onsen, more contemporary relaxation can be found with the spa treatments, with atmospherically lit rooms taking advantage of the geothermally heated waters.