Atami Onsen Sakuraya Ryokan

We wanted to experience something special during this long-awaited trip to Japan and were referred to this ryokan (traditional inn) by a former client of mine. On paper, it has several things going for it: It’s located directly on the train route between Tokyo and Kyoto; Features both a large onsen (mineral bath) and private tubs in the rooms; Includes both breakfast and dinner. Also, it threw me a bit at first but was actually quite reassuring that the website for this ryokan is entirely in Japanese. I took that as a sign of its authenticity, and management was very gracious to correspond in English via email. When we arrived, we were not disappointed with the warm welcome and very comfortable accommodations. Although our room was the smallest at the inn, it was actually a small suite of rooms with lots of modern amenities as well as traditional decor. We changed into our yokatas and lounged in our sitting room enjoying tea and snacks before dinner. That dinner was amazing! Having notified management that our aging knees do not allow us to sit on the floor in the traditional Japanese manner, we were delighted that they arranged a private dining room and server for us. We’d never before seen such an ongoing stream of exotic and delicious foods. After a while, we just laughed as our server brought us more and more dishes. Our private mineral bath was the perfect way to unwind after dinner. I’m not sure what minerals are in the piping hot water, but it felt so good. Sleeping on tatami mats was a challenge, but not impossible. In the morning, breakfast was a slightly shorter version of dinner, with multiple small dishes of beautiful and delicious foods. Before checkout time, we had some time for a walk down to the beach and around the neighborhood. Finally, when it was time to leave, the inn provided a ride to the train station. Everyone we encountered at this ryokan was so gracious and accommodating. It was a wonderful, relaxing, and unforgettable experience. Be aware, though, that this type of inn is not cheap. Most of them charge per person per night. But if you want to pamper yourself, I highly recommend this place.