The Kayotei

This is one of the most peaceful and traditional resorts. Incredible surroundings the walk along the river was mesmerizing its beginning of fall the Japanese maples, ginkgos, crape Myrtle's, pines and several other native trees and shrubs are changing colors absolutely stunning. The service is 5 star so is the food. No shoes inside and they provide a Yukata robe to wear are the place. Private dining exclusive private onsen hot tubs in your rooms. Only 10 rooms in the foothills beautiful not on the traditional tourist/beating path. A must hard to get reservations so book early before your trip.

From the minute you step out of the taxi and up the driveway you are welcomed like family, with a greeting party of no less than 4-7 people each time. The service here is excellent. Probably the best possibly ever, and done with such kindness and care. Thru provided yukata (Japanese kimono) for us and the kids to wear while at the hotel, and during the day you walk through the river path or the town. We opted for the paper making and Ichiban class with local artisans and it was a highlight. The kids loved doing something hands on and creative. The meals were so elaborate, filling and delicious with the finest of local food served on locally made plates, bowls, etc. Our room, the kokutani suite was perfect for a family of four. And we had our own shower and onsen. Having the private onsen was great since I could go whenever and not have to do the shares one each time I wanted a dip. The shared one is super nice though and also enjoyable. This area and hotel is a GEM.

Staying at the Kayotei in Yamanaka was an experience we will never forget. The quaint inn is so charming- every corner has an antique or special flower arrangement. Breakfast and dinner was served to us in a lovely small private room that looked out on one of the gardens. We had both the traditional and western breakfasts and they are both excellent and filling. You will not need lunch. Dinner is an 8 or 9 course meal, elegantly served, presented and delicious. The staff was ever helpful and kind- we felt so well taken care of. There are two onsens here- one has an outdoor pool. We were here during the winter and sitting in the outside onsen with the snow falling and looking at the stream coming down from the mountain was so calming- one cold morning a fox appeared for us. The Inn had us booked for one of our dinners at a local restaurant , a short walk from the Inn. The Enuma Station is the name of the restaurant. It is a French Japanese fusion restaurant run by a young couple- another outstanding meal. The town of Yamanaka is small and fairly quiet during the winter but the public baths are worth a visit as is the theater next door where we watched a traditional Japanese dance. We hiked the trail that runs along the gorge twice, once in the snow. This hike would be nice anytime of year. At the end of the trail just below Kayotei, we stopped into Higashiyama Bonheur for coffee and a piece of cake. We are so happy we found this area and The Kayotei.