JAPAN Inspiration Gallery 11 Japan
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Hakuchoro
Kanazawa

The Hakuchoro is a charming and quirky property dating from the feudal Edo period in the 19th century. It exudes an old-world Japanese charm, with an idiosyncratic layout due to the fact that Edo-period property rates were calculated on building frontage rather than area. The old customs of Japan are evident in the tatami mat dining room, their kimono clad concierge team, as well as the communal hot spring baths. These natural onsen are a rarity in Kanazawa and provide a great spot for a long, relaxing soak after a day’s sightseeing - particularly as the bathrooms in the renovated rooms are a typically compact modern style. Other relaxing treatments are available, such as a sauna and you can even indulge in a Japanese massage.

The rooms themselves are of a very generous size, starting at 30 sqm with premier rooms at 40 sqm (equivalent to a luxury Tokyo hotel). While the rooms only offer twin beds, in keeping with the Japanese preference, effort has been made to accommodate Western guests in other aspects - especially at breakfast as one can choose between the mixed selection of cuisine available. Dinners are a more formal affair with ‘kaiseki’ traditional cuisine being prepared using local ingredients.

One of the most endearing features of this hotel is the tea lounge, which retains the original stained-glass windows that were in vogue in Japan towards the end of the 19th century. For those seeking an unalloyed Japanese experience, we recommend enjoying drinks in the Maharoba lounge with its panoramic windows looking onto the private traditional garden.

The Hakuchoro is home to many useful amenities, such as speedy Wi-Fi and sits in a convenient location. It is well within walking distance of the majority of the key sights of this culture-rich city. Kenrokuen (famed for being one of Japan’s 3 most beautiful gardens) and Seison-kaku Villa are just five minutes away, while Higashi Chaya district (the traditional tea house district) and the sleek 21st century art museum are both less than fifteen minutes away. Bicycles are available to rent from this hotel, if you tire from sightseeing on foot and would like to cover more ground as there are so many sights to see in this exhilarating, often overlooked, city.

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To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson

Client Testimonials

I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
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- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
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- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
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- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland

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