Located in the town of Takachiho, with its dramatic gorge, shrines and nightly traditional dance performances, this moderately expensive ryokan features lovely gardens and excellent food. Our room was comfortable with a private outdoor hot spring bath with its own traditional garden. The hotel is owned and run by a family that makes sure that every detail is correct. They provided us with transport to the dance, which was good fun and, at our request, provided folding stools to sit on during the performance in place of having to sit on tatami mats.

The only thing we didn't like was that they seemed to insist that, before dinner and the dance, my wife come to the office to chose a kimono and have a staff member accompany her back to the room to tie the obi properly, and I was likewise encourage to wear my yukata. At dinner that was fine, but at the dance, we found ourselves to be the only people in traditional dress while everyone else was in normal street clothes! We think the ryokan should make the dress arrangements more of an option, rather than an obligation.

Let me start with the location. Rekan is very conveniently situated — right near Takachiho Shrine, close to the bus station, and just a short walk from a local market with souvenirs and regional products. There are also cafés and restaurants nearby. It’s not far from Takachiho Gorge, and overall, there’s always somewhere nice to walk and explore. The hotel has its own parking as well. The room was excellent — clean, spacious, fully equipped, with a generous selection of complimentary snacks and drinks. There’s a private onsen and a small garden that you can enjoy. Honestly, I didn’t even want to leave my room. The staff were extremely polite and friendly. Always ready to help — they personally advised me on the best places to book in the city and recommended where to go. They were genuinely interested in my trip and eager to assist. Both dinner and breakfast were outstanding. I overate every time. The staff kindly explained and presented everything with such care that I even felt a bit awkward from their overwhelming politeness. It’s a wonderful place, and I’d love to return again.

Absolutely loved the efficient and personalized check in process. They were already expecting us with a warm welcome and greetings by our name. Luggage was pick up from our car and delivered directly to our room. Check in was done in our room, making it feel more valuable and enjoyable after a long drive. Room was impeccably clean, well-maintained and comfortable bedding. Thoughtful amenities with excellent taste (eg. Fabric freshener, Dyson hairdryer, good minibar selection, high-end toiletries). Compliments to Saida-san who was attached to us throughout our stay. She’s friendly and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure we feel welcomed and supported throughout our stay. It was truly an amazing experience.

Nothing. From front desk to concierge to housekeeping, every detail was perfect and flawless!

The property is, of course, fabulous and the villa very cosy and comfortable! But the highlight was the extremely attentive hospitality that strove to anticipate and meet guests’ needs, e.g., when we returned after a day out, the attendant handed the room keys to us the moment we got out of the car, so that we wouldn’t have to walk to the reception building to retrieve them. We felt very honoured that the landlady herself greeted us on the first evening and saw us off on our last day with a gift of Shinsen green tea. Thank you for a memorable stay, Takachiho Ryokan Shinsen!

Nil.

Everything!!! Staying here is an experience in itself and one I would do again without hesitation. From the moment we drove up the driveway, the customer service was exceptional, one I've certainly never had in accommodation. The room is beautiful, and your own private onsen pool is heaven. Then you have the absolutely delicious dinner and breakfast. We loved every minute of our stay here and would recommend anyone going to Takachiho to do the same, a unique and luxurious experience you'll never forget.

Hotel staff are very nice. We felt like very warm welcomed. They offerred great food, comfort room 1st class service, and free ride to bus station in the end.

Not a big deal. If I have to say, it’s probably just a miscommunication. A lady(not local staff, looks like from other country) led me to front desk to choose the yukata for a free trail. Then she told me to go back to my room and someone will come to help me with the dressing. But no one came until I mentioned to another local staff at dinner. They apologized and re-arranged it.

I appreciated the staff offering me help. They kept my luggage before and after my time, so I could explore the town well. I arrived by bus + foot, and they gave me a ride to the bus station on my return. They dressed me in Yukata(summer kimono) and were ready to chauffeur me to an outdoor evening show, but I declined and enjoyed my bath in my backyard. Whereas usual Ryokan serves food in your room, this place has two food serving areas, and they walked me to different rooms for dinner and breakfast. I liked the nice garden views from two different locations.

I had very high expectations for the food. Not that it wasn't delicious. It was beautiful and tasty. They even made me onigiri from leftover breakfast. However, as I paid for single occupancy, I expected to see fabulous food for the amount I paid. It took a few days for me to understand that I didn't pay for special food, but the room and the gorgeous surroundings. (problem of a solo traveler!)

Our experience was absolutely amazing. The friendly staff did an excellent job communicating to us, and they accommodated our dietary requirements with the breakfast and dinner which was one of the best we’ve eaten during our stay in Japan. The staff went beyond our expectations and we are forever grateful for their efforts to make us comfortable. We can’t wait to come back here :)

Exceptional service, food and room. Kaiseki dinner and breakfast during the 3D2N stay had different menus and was in different rooms allowing us to experience different things. I like that they let us try different specialties from the region - Takachiho Beef, Ozaki Beef, Miyazaki mangoes. They also provided yukatas, not only for the adults, but also the children!

None.

We came to Takachiho to visit the famous gorge and when looking at accommodation, there were little around. Ryokan Shinsen was definitely more on the pricer side, however having stayed the 2 nights, I would be more than keen to stay here again. The facilities and rooms were immaculate. The service was excellent, very attentive. Breakfast and dinner were included in the stay and it's definitely an experience. There is plenty of parking if you're planning on driving and close to tourist attractions.

Loved every aspect of the stay