JAPAN Inspiration Gallery 11 Japan
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Takimi Onsen Inn
Kiso Valley

Located in the depths of the Kiso Valley amidst the Japan Alps, Takimi Onsen Inn offers an exclusive and homely stay. As the inn only caters to one party (up to eight people) a night, it makes for the ideal getaway for those seeking a rural escape in Japan’s unspoiled countryside. In our view, this cosy guesthouse is the place to spend a night or two while walking the ancient ‘Nakasendo Way’ walking trail.

You can expect a warm welcome upon arrival here, as the delightful couple that run this traditional inn, Mr and Mrs Koike (who sweetly introduce themselves by their first names, Miyoharu-san and Kazoku-san), both provide great hospitality and the charming property gives off the air of an ancestral home.

A real highlight of this special hotel is the gourmet food: not only is it beautifully cooked by the skilled host over a traditional ‘irori’ (sunken hearth) right in front of you, but it is arguably traditional Japanese ‘kaiseki’ (multi-course haute cuisine) at its finest. Changing with the seasons and availability of local ingredients, the dishes constantly vary; you will be spoilt with a selection of succulent meat – we enjoyed Wagu beef, wild boar ‘shabu-shabu’ (hotpot) and fresh trout while dining here – and vegetarian options, alongside perfectly grilled vegetables plucked straight from the fertile land outside. If this isn’t enough to whet your appetite, rest assured that even the simplest of ingredients – along the lines of rice and sesame – are curated into mouth-watering delicacies that you are bound to crave when home! As is typical in Japan, everything is cooked with outstanding care and attention-to-detail, and it really is a treat to watch this in such close quarters here, as well as cook a few of the specialities yourself.

Another of this property’s perks is its private natural ‘onsen’. These hot spring baths make for the ideal introduction to this uniquely Japanese cultural tradition and the bubbling mineral-rich water is sure to relax and rejuvenate your muscles after a long day walking. Soak in the indoor bath or step out into the pristine mountain air to bathe outside overlooking the impressive waterfall: our idea of bliss.

This picturesque idyll is without a doubt our favourite guesthouse in this area; not only does it promise exclusivity and tranquillity, but its authenticity as a family-run ‘ryokan’ (Japanese inn) ensures a memorable stay.

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My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus

Client Testimonials

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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!
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- Leslie Siben, India
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- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
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
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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- Matthew Nicklin, North India
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!
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