Kotohira Kadan

This property is truly a gem. While I can comment only on the room we stayed in, room 503 which was a Japanese style room, I would rate it as a 10/10. The staff are all lovely. Every single staff member that crossed our path was very helpful, polite and friendly. Our room had a gorgeous 180 degree view over Kotohira. The sound of the river below was so nice.
If I was to stay again, I would stay in a western style room simply because I found it difficult to get off the floor. I peeked in room 302 on my way out and think any western room on that side of that building with that view, could not be beat.
We did not have our dinners at the hotel but did have breakfast every day for the four days we were there. The amount of food is enough to set you for the entire day. I enjoyed a vegetarian western breakfast while my husband enjoyed the Japanese breakfast. The food is delicious, the presentation is beautifully done and the service is exceptional. Such a hard working team.
The staff were happy to take us to the train station whoever we wanted to go on a day trip. A day trip to the Iya valley and one to the Ritsurin gardens should not be missed.

Lovely room with a great view of the garden and distant mountains. The private bath on our balcony was excellent plus there was another bath that could be booked for private use with a view of the forest, free of charge. We had 2 kaiseki dinners which were delicious. There was plenty of food but the portions were more manageable than some similar hotels. The tempura was the best we've ever had!
Staff were very friendly. You can walk to Kompira-san via a direct route from behind the property. There was a hotel shuttle bus to the station.

The location is great, with the famous Kotohira Shrine just nearby the hotel. We love the onsen on the balcony, and exceptional breakfast and dinner prepared to us. Plus point to Judee who serves us with all the patience. The hotel alone would let you take lots of photos, it's too beautiful!

What could be improved: The car access to the lobby would be a little bit tricky, but not an issue.

I liked the setting in a beautiful garden. The view from my tatami room was superb. Although a western style bed was unavailable on the nights I booked, I found the futon comfortable and at 74 I was able to get off the floor without too much difficulty. I like that you could access YouTube on the TV as I travel alone and was able to have English programs at night. The room was very spacious.

What could be improved: I would have like to have coffee sachets and larger cups in the room. There was only tea.