Inn with Private Open-Air Bath Rooms - Okuine Onsen Aburaya Annex Watei

In fact, my wife and I stayed here two years ago in April after visiting Kehi Shrine. Ever since then, whenever we talked about traveling together, she would always say, “How about Watei?” Watei was certainly wonderful, but to be honest, when considering sightseeing as well as the stay itself, I couldn’t quite make up my mind. While I was hesitating, my wife said she wanted to visit Fukuchiyama Zoo and Urashima Shrine—so we went with that plan and decided to stay at Watei again. We arrived early at the Accommodation, but the staff were very pleasant and promptly showed us to our Room.Delicious matcha was served as a welcome drink.This time our view was almost the same as two years ago (from the Room next door), yet it felt strangely calming. When I thought about why, it suddenly occurred to me: you don’t sense other guests at all. Also, because the Accommodation is built atop a sheer cliff, the grandeur of the sea below, the sound of waves rising from beneath you, and how your eye level seems to align with the distant horizon all have a soothing effect.It took me two years to understand this thoughtful design—but perhaps my wife sensed it instinctively; in that sense she may be far more of a travel expert than I am.The Onsen had just the right silky feel and was wonderfully relaxing. The temperature was perfect too, so I soaked many times during our stay.Now for the meals: I generally don’t like in-room dining because food odors linger when you sleep. However at Watei there was no lingering smell at all despite dining in our Room—likely because there is a partition between the bedroom and dining area, and also an exhaust fan in the dining space.Dinner began with five appetizers including an unusual “ugo” aspic; every sashimi selection was thick-cut and delicious.Next came A5 sirloin grilled on a hot stone. Tempura had been listed on the menu next, but as a surprise from the head chef we were served Wakasa guchi instead—and it was outstanding. The rice dish was clay-pot rice with simmered beef and sweet chili peppers; we finished every last bite. Dessert was white pudding accented with red-wine caramel sauce—also excellent.Breakfast had many thoughtful touches as well; my wife especially loved how gently flavored and delicious miso soup with sea bream meat tasted.Thank you very much to the head chef and all staff members.We will be back again.

This Accommodation is perfect in every way.The service is exceptionally attentive, and there are many unique charms you won’t find at other Accommodations, from the cuisine to the Onsen.Having stayed at many Accommodations, this one truly offered everything we were looking for.Thank you very much.We sincerely hope to stay with you again in the future.