Wafu Ryokan Tsuenosho

The Ryokan is an easy 15-18 mins walk from Yufuin train station. Also it’s approx 10 mins walk to Lake Kinrin/main shopping street. We booked a room with mountain views, half board for 3 nights and it certainly didn’t disappoint. We loved waking up each morning to the eye catching views of mount Yufu. Our room looked and felt very traditional, it’s spacious, bright, quiet, clean and fully equipped with everything you need. They have a small indoor/outdoor onsen which one we used a lot. Luckily every time I went it was empty. One time I bathed outside and it was snowing which was a wonderful experience (all that was missing were some Snow Monkeys!) Also, I have to mention the kaiseki. The food is just out of this world- for me easily one of the best kaiseki dinning experiences. The evening meal consisted of 6 beautifully presented courses. You could just tell they used the freshest local ingredients and prepared with a lot of skill/care. Breakfast consisted of a delicious traditional Japanese breakfast with an assortment of dishes. Both breakfast/dinner was served in a traditional way making the overall experience all the better. Dinner is served either at 6pm or 7pm and breakfast is served either at 8am or 8.30am. The staff were all very attentive, welcoming and helpful. Hats off to the girl who served us dinner- she was very professional and took time to explain what the dishes consisted of (not that it’s a problem but just be mindful not all staff speak English very well). The only minor issue was that it would have been nice to have the bins in our room emptied during our stay. Also it would have been nice to have a pick up/drop off service from/to the train station. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful place to stay surrounded by nature together with the whole traditional Ryokan/kaiseki experience then you won’t be disappointed.