Kakimotoya Ryokan

Not many current reviews for this 100 year-old ryokan. There were other Western guests the nights we stayed, but most of the clientele were Japanese. We liked: 1.) the location. It's a 10 - 15 minute taxi from the Oji train station. (Taxi queue just outside the station). Taxi fare is 1,600 Yen. The hotel sits on a hilly area, thick with trees and a few local houses. Wonderful views. Nara is on the far horizon, and Shigisanchogo-ji Temple can be seen nestled in the trees nearby. An easy 20 minute taxi ride took us to the Horyu-ji Temple area. Cost, nearly 3,000 Yen. 2.) We loved the room, Japanese style, which looked newly refurbished. Quite large, with entrance area, sitting room, separate sleeping room, (mattresses on the floor), and a terrace overlooking the forested hills that surround the hotel. We did not get the in-room hot bath tub, which is an extra cost. Bathroom had double sinks and a very good shower, Again, everything looked new. Only quibbles: no comfortable chairs to sit in. The tatami mat floor is OK, but it's not for sitting. No English language channels on the TV, but that's common in Japan. 3.). We loved the evening dinners that come with the price of the room. Top quality Japanese formal dinner, different each of the three nights we were guests. Service is delightful, but English is quite limited. Breakfast is also Japanese style unless you request the 'Western-style" breakfast, which is only OK. We were charged extra for hot coffee. Japanese tea is included. An excellent stay and we would love to come back. This area has quite a lot to offer, including very convenient train service from Kyoto and Osaka. Less than 20 minutes form the Oji station to Tennoji Station in Osaka. Highly recommended ryokan.