“We work very hard with the services we offer so that customers will be glad they stayed with us. The water in our natural spa is highly rated,” tells President Hayashi. This long-established inn has been in operation for more than 126 years and the hotel wing is internally connected to the inn. It is quite convenient for accessing the natural spa in the inn.

When I asked about meals, I was told, “dinner and breakfast are available and can be reserved when checking in. Dinner features the delights of field and sea including fresh fish from Wakayama. Both breakfast and dinner are eaten at zashiki (low tables on matted floors).” You get the service one would want and expect from a Japanese style inn.

I also learned about recommended walking courses: “There is a loop course nearby and Kimiidera Temple is about 5 minutes on foot for those wanting to say prayers or make offerings.” Kimiidera Temple is a historically prominent temple and is known for its early blossoming cherry trees and the wondrous view from the grounds. You can see both Wakanoura Bay and downtown, therefore you really should get up early and check it out.
The hotel’s neighborhood, known as Monzenmachi, a temple town, retains the color and atmosphere of long ago. How about a stroll through the streets and popping into the many stores?

I was given a tour of the facilities by a cheerful staff, Ms. Koshiba. She was very easy to get along with and made me so happy when she said, “After you finish your tour, please enjoy the spa before heading home.” I could feel the simple warmth of the people of Wakayama. The outdoor bath was wonderful and had a view of the garden. Next time I am here, I will definitely be bathing again!

In the lobby of the inn are very comfortable sofas and the greenery of the garden is placating to the mind. It is a perfect ambient for relaxing to a newspaper or magazine.
If you have spare time, you might pop into their souvenir store just for a change. They have plenty of local specialties amongst the confectionaries, fruit and more, and just looking can be fun.
By the way, the President’s recommended souvenir is the Arita mikan (Mandarin orange). With a big smile, he told me, “At the time of the symposium, they will be picking the first mikans and we will be more than happy to send them to you. Wakayama mikans are delicious.”