"The absolute best Japanese experience of our lives. Once I read about the history behind Asaba I wanted to stay here. My husband & I were so excited once we were able to get a reservation. I was worried this place would not live up to my expectations, but Asaba blew our expectations out of the water. It is about 2 hours from Tokyo by train in the country side. Once we arrived we were greeted by two kind gentlemen. We were early, so he called a Soba restaurant within walking distance and got us lunch reservations. Once we came back to Asaba, we were shown the grounds by a sweet lady. We had to use our Google translate but we understood the customs. We changed into our robes and walked the peaceful grounds. Later that evening they had a drum performance. It was spectacular! Our room attendant, Yoshie, was the sweetest and kindest young lady. Our dinner was served in our room and was 5 star. After dinner we walked the grounds and took more beautiful photos and came back to our marshmallow futon beds. They were so comfy. We also enjoy our in-room onsen with the sounds of the waterfall and frogs. The next morning, we had the traditional Japanese breakfast and they was great as well. We then had to say goodbye to Yoshie and the team. A handful of Asaba family team members gave us a memorable farewell. I teared up, it felt so heartfelt. Our overall our stay has enriched our souls. This three Michelin star facility is worth every penny from arrival to farewell we will never forget this our time and if we are fortunate to come back- we will in a heartbeat."

"We absolutely loved our time at Asaba. As a luxury travel advisor, I would confidently send my clients here without hesitation. Everything was truly outstanding. The peacefulness of the hotel was so special. We loved that it felt serene and tucked away with the beautiful waterfall in the background, yet still close to town. The rooms and bathrooms were immaculate, the onsens were wonderful, and the food was lovely throughout our stay. The bedding was especially incredible. The comforters were so fluffy and comfortable, and we slept wonderfully. The pajamas were also such a thoughtful touch. Most of all, the team was exceptional. Everyone was so kind and helpful, especially assisting us with arranging taxis for our transfer to another hotel and allowing us a slightly later check out. It was a truly wonderful stay and one we will remember for a very long time."

"Definitely gorgeous courtyard and maintenance. But the food quality is so poor that I won’t expect to see in any 20000+ kaiseki restaurant in Tokyo"

"There are some reviewers that, in my opinion, unfairly criticize this ryokan. They expect a typical Michelin starred dining experience that you can get in New York, Paris or any other major city. If that’s what you’re after then maybe this isn’t the place for you. However, if you are looking for an authentic, beautiful ryokan experience, you will love this place as much as we did. The Asaba it has been owned by the same family for almost 500 years. I did not have the pleasure to meet them but it’s obvious that they care deeply about the traditions and standards that have made this ryokan endure. We were lucky enough to stay in the recently renovated Hagoromo room. It definitely has zen qualities with beautiful finishes, tatami flooring, and a location overlooking the pond. We were also lucky enough to be there when they had outdoor performances of traditional Japanese music/story telling on a stage that floats in the pond itself. The food is a draw for many guests and I would say it’s excellent, served by charming staff that wants nothing more than to make you happy. Meals are brought to your room. I have never experienced cuisine of this level served in my room. I can’t imagine the logistics so I suggest giving some grace when reviewing that aspect of the culinary experience. The town itself has a lot of personality. Lots to do if you like hiking and taking in nature. I highly recommend this place."

"We are now staying at the Hagoromo room in asaba ryokan and i must say while we were initally in awe of the room and beautiful surroundings, the whole experience was marred by the totally underwhelming kaiseki dinner tonight Given the rave reviews i had read and the 3 michelin star on its dining experience, i must say i am flabbergasted. While the taste was relatively good and simple (i guess to jive with the zen theme of the ryokan) the whole presentation left us absolutely positively dissapointed! I understand the need for 'zen' but from cutler to plating to food presentation... The only word that comes to mind is dissapointing! Made worse by all those wonderful reviews from other guests. And the dessert... A scoop of so called cherry blossom ice cream that tasted more like vanilla ice cream thats not even trying hard to look like anything but!! Seriously! And btw for a place that charges upwards of usd 2.5 to 3k i do feel somewhat cheated and taken for a ride. Views and room aside... Also for that amount... U dont even get body lotion in the bathroom and i had to request for one! Go figure. Extremely disappointed"