Auberge Yusura

These Are the 12 Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Hotels in Japan - AFAR

"A relaxed boutique ryokan offering five pond-facing villas named after trees, where guests can meditate amid tranquil waters and gardens. Bathrooms are stocked with locally made Mikimoto amenities and feature deep Kiso cypress soaking tubs; sleeping options include comfortable Japanese futons or Simmons mattresses and soft cotton pajamas. The kaiseki cuisine is a highlight, featuring dishes such as matsutake beef and seafood like abalone and lobster harvested by local female Ama divers. The property is a short walk from major local sites, including the bayside Futamiokitama Shrine and the iconic wedded rocks tied with a sacred rice-straw rope." - Adam H. Graham