Kiri-no-Sato Takahara Lodge "Organic Hotel"

Arrived on a trek of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route run by MT Sobek. It's a small eccentric country inn with exceptional food, run by a charming family and their staff, some of whom are young Americans studying Japanese language and culture. The decor is wacky -- a melange of Victorian Japanese bric-a-brac (the owner, Jian, got many items from his grandfather, he said.) Jian is a hilarious storyteller and sometimes serenades his guests by playing Spanish flamenco guitar (he's good.). The clean, comfortable rooms all overlook mountain valleys where the morning mists drift in like a scene from a Kurosawa movie. The onsen baths are small but it's only an eight-room hotel, and they have porches that overlook the valley. When it's cold, a fire burns on the patio. A pot of coffee is put out early for early risers. You can use the inn's washing machine for your clothes, but you must hang them to dry yourself. The food is delicious and infused with color and taste -- mostly Japanese but with fusion elements like pate mixed in. It's amazing how many little tapas-type dishes the tiny kitchen can turn out using seafood, meat and lots of local vegetables. The vegetarians and pescatarians in our group were as happy as the omnivores. We didn't test the kitchen's vegan or gluten-free talents but it was accommodating (given enough warning). And sitting around chatting in the big dining/viewing space, with the staff as part of the conversation is a delight.

Loved this little space of rest. The host Naomi and her husband are lovely and very hospitable. The food was amazing all home cooked and fresh. Everything we needed was provided for. Highly recommended. If you looking for traditional Japanese experience with modern comfort then you will enjoy your stay

Magical lodge, sweetly decorated with eclectic art and antiques. It's a perfect landing spot after a day of hiking. The rooms are scrupulously clean and tidy and the sharen baths well appointed. The food is very good and presented prettily. The hosts strive to create a convivial atmosphere among the guest - playing songs after dinner and warmly greeting each party.

After a half day hike, this was heaven to walk into. The welcome from the host was warm and the facilities were just perfect for our group. The onsen was a highlight, followed by a delicious dinner. Sunset and sunrise were astounding watching the colours change over the mountains. It’s a fun place to stay with an engaging host who played us a song for breakfast.

If you're doing the Kumano Kodo, try your best to stay here. A family run Lodge. From the start everyone was friendly and welcoming, I got there super early so decided to wait outside and enjoy the scenery, I was given a glass of water while I waited and when it started to rain somebody rushed out and told me to wait inside. Once checked in and I stepped into my room I was gob smacked by the view from my balcony. The bath was lovely and hot. I decided to spend the evening in the lobby/dining area and read while listening to the mainly Spanish style music playing and the whole time I was there I just had conversation after conversation with everyone. It was so easy and welcoming. Food was amazingly delicious and there was so much of it and then we were blessed with a flute rendition which I could hear from my room in the morning whilst staring out at the mist in the valley below. I didn't want to leave.

This is possibly my favourite guest house of all time. Beautiful rooms and setting. Onsite onsen. Half board included and the food was incredible. Lovely place to relax. The staff and owner are the best.

Probably the nicest place we stayed on the Kumano Kodo. Beautiful mountain views. The onsen was a treat after a day of hiking. Spacious dining and lounge area with decks overlooking the valley. Great food and friendly service.

INCREDIBLE experience all around. Best place to stay on the kumono kodo trail bar none. Great owners. Super kind and sweet. Chilled cocktails. Great food. Views are incredible. Hot pool with a view. Couldn’t recommend more.