KYUSHU TRAVEL DIARYREVIEW KYUSHU TRIPS WE HAVE VISITED

I can’t say enough about how I much I enjoyed the overnight stay at Ryokan Shimizu. The quiet, mountain location was my idea of a “real Japan” location, just 15 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Yufuin. Yunohira Onsen has been a resort for about 400 years, since the Edo-Period. The weary traveler can experience a traditional Japanese inn along a flowing mountain river and explore its narrow, lantern-lit, cobblestone streets. One feels as though he has traveled back in time at this tucked-away, almost secret location. The Ryokan’s beautiful, immaculate but simple traditional wooden interior, soothing mountain and garden views, the exquisite artistic and deliciously prepared kaiseki cuisine, luxuriously-warm indoor and outdoor baths, are just perfect for escaping the stress of modern life.  

 

The owner, Mr. Shimizu, and several other families and staff members speak English quite well and can provide helpful information on the area.

 

As soon as I arrived, I took and bath. I was delighted with the Ryokan’s beautiful hot spring baths, both the cavern-like indoor bath and the outdoor tub. The fact that no one else was there was a bonus. Next, I sat down in the restaurant for a beautiful kaiseki meal, with course after course of beautifully-prepared local ingredients including radishes and mushrooms. While I was dining, my futon bedding was laid out for me on the room’s tatami mats.

Because I had glimpsed the lanterns strung along the narrow streets, I had to explore, so I set out to walk to the far end of the town. It was a real treat, dressed in yukata and walking with wooden geta sandals down past the well-kept old buildings in town. Climbing back up was a challenge, and I was so tired that I went right to bad. In the morning, a beautiful Japanese breakfast of rice, fish, miso soup, and pickles was served in the dining room.I didn’t want to leave, but I’m sure I will be back.