Hoshino Resorts KAI Kinugawa

The property offered a welcome respite from the hustle of Tokyo. Getting there is easier via express train but not necessary. You don’t need to bring a lot with you because they provide extremely comfortable clothes, slippers, and even socks while you’re on the property. Same with toiletries. They have everything you could possibly need. Excursions are wonderful but not necessary if you’re going there to relax. The food is beautiful and nutritious. There are limited snacks and drinks available if you need anything between the planned meals. If you do decide to do excursions, plan for the later dinner as getting around Nikko takes time. I suggest taking a taxi to and from the property if you have bags. But the walk to the train station from the hotel is downhill and easy—about 20 minutes. The staff is wonderful and friendly and is so very kind. They make effort to speak English but everyone mostly speaks Japanese. We visited during New Year and they had lovely celebration meals and decor to commemorate the occasion. It even snowed during our stay and the property somehow became even more beautiful. It was snowing when I went to the onsen and it was unreal. I highly recommend staying here. I would just book well in advance to ensure the time of year you would like to be there. I imagine that Fall is also a beautiful time of year to visit.

This is a true luxury experience that you feel it is away from busy life. The breakfast and dinner is real high end japanese style. Every dish is delicious , delicate, with good dashi flavor. Hot spring is plus too if you like the experience.

Amazing place to stay. Not only was breakfast included but also an eight course dinner. We choose the room style with a private onsen bath on the balcony, and it was absolutely what we needed.