Kikunoyu Ryokan

What a hidden jem! We stayed there for two days. The place is located just 15 min drive from the Matsumoto station. We went to many Ryokans but always returned to this place. Why? First when you arrive and see the front door, you can tell that this is a real traditional Japanese ryokan. Thick hinoki (Japanese cypress) pillars and beautiful trees. When you enter the ryokan, the reception area is cozy with lots of Japanese antiques. We found everyone to be very friendly and the service was warm and attentive. (They told us that there are 14 rooms there but they don’t fill all rooms because they want to take great care of all guests.) How about the onsen? Well, water quality is top-notch. Once you sink yourself in the onsen, you feel your skin get smoother (according to my wife) and the water temperature is right on. Not hot, not warm. Just the right temperature. Food? OMG! They used seasonal ingredients and beautifully dished up on plates (kaiseki). It was a full course meal and every single plate was attention-to-detail meal. Also the ryokan was very clean and well maintained. If you are looking for a traditional, peaceful, and cozy ryokan, this is it. No need to look around!