Pension Ashitanomori

The river across the road with geothermal heat was a wonderful surprise. Having a cool dip in the river followed by a relaxing bath in a self created rock pool at the edge was so relaxing after a days walking on the Kumano Kodo. Very quiet area compared to Yumonime Onsen village a few kms down the road.

We stayed here partway through hiking the Kumano Kodo and it was one of our favorite stays during our two week Japan trip. The owner (?) is so kind and had great recommendations for food nearby and in the town we were going to. He even made us a lunch for our hike the next day! The hot springs in the hotel and in the river are wonderful. Note that you do need to take a bus to-from the trail, since it's not directly off the trail, but the bus schedules are easy to navigate.

Best place in Kumano kodo- kawayu onsen. A beautiful ryokan run by a lovely and caring family. Very clean and comfortable room with an amazing view. The restaurant by the river has tasty and ecstatically served food. The onsen is private and with a Mountain View, The hotel is by the river with many hot spring pools . Perfect location, comfortable and sparkling clean and great family-Great value, highly recommended.

Wonderful stay on the Kumano Kodo. Location is fantastic - directly in front of the hotel is the outdoor hot spring by the river. The family who own it are so friendly and helpful.

This was my favorite accommodation during my 3 week trip to Japan. The owners were the most hospitable and warm people that I encountered, and that is saying something for such a welcoming country like Japan. I have always been a fan of Japanese culture and have watched many movies and TV shows where characters stay in minshuku, and staying here felt like exactly as I imagined. Super cozy, impeccably clean, the room was a perfect size for two people, fantastic views of the river from our window, and the beds were comfortable. There are two private baths which was amazing, but my favorite part was the outdoor bath by the river. It was the highlight of my trip, sitting in the 40 degree (celcius) water, looking at the mountains each morning and evening. It is literally directly across from the front of the Inn. The breakfasts and dinners were also very well done, plenty of food and very fresh. The owner's young daughter even came out to say goodbye and made us origami cranes with our names on them, which is my favorite souvenir that I brought home. I cannot recommend this accommodation enough, and I plan to return with my wife in the next couple of years.

We feel like home staying here, where the host is very hospitable and cater for all the needs. And provides helpful tips on how to get to our next destination.

Kawayu Onsen is a truly enchanting destination, and my experience was greatly enhanced by the exceptional hospitality of the local guesthouse. The family-run establishment is managed with utmost care and dedication, and the culinary offerings were simply exquisite, leaving me with fond memories and a desire to return for more. The young daughter of the family is an absolute delight, and engaging in conversations with her about various geographical locations can be a delightful experience. Throughout my stay, I felt genuinely welcomed and received invaluable advice regarding my travel plans, which I highly recommend heeding. It is establishments such as these that leave an indelible impression, primarily due to the remarkable and compassionate individuals one encounters during their stay.

A wonderful experience here. This is a family run business, and it shows in the way they care for their guests. They are available to answer any questions we have about the Kumano Kodo Trail. Food is delicious. Location is spectacular with a lovely river, with geothermal hot springs seeping out of the ground. Enough to make your own personal hot spring pond! Don’t hesitate and book your stay here- a highlight of our Japan trip.