A relatively nondescript, and ordinary looking structure up from a distance, however as one reaches the entrance of Itō Kowaki-en guests will feel a overwhelming sense of belonging with understated graceful simplicity. A simple building in a style often associated with Japanese architecture. Clean, modern and practical.

Its no secret, the establishment is a favourite restful getaway for the citizens of Tokyo for two reasons, unbelievably fresh seasonal fish such as awabi (abalone) and amazing onsen (hot spring). Additionally, the hotel provides a complementary pick up service from the JR Itō station for guests, about a 90 minutes train journey from the Tokyo station.

The muted and discreet exterior facade of the building masks a thoughtful and beautiful interior that is elegant and minimal. Warm lush lights flood the lobby during the day, giving a sense of serene calmness. The hotel staff are professional and polite in a way that represents the best of omotenashi, Japanese hospitality. In a city relatively untouched by time, this hotel encapsulates perhaps one of the most interesting eras in Japanese architecture. Where the influences of the western world meets the charms and simplicity of traditional Japan. The result is a hotel that offers the comforts of the west with a flavour that is native and distinct to Japan.

Guests at the hotel might also want to enjoy a pre or post dinner drink at the hotel bar, do some laps at the swimming pool (only open for the summer) and sing their hearts out at the private karaoke rooms. Do note that reservations in advanced are required for the private karaoke rooms. Itō Kowaki-en is indeed a venue for all types of travellers, families, friends and even couples who like to escape the norms of society and spend quality time with each other.

Room

The thoughtful and extraordinary design extends into the rooms, with distinctive rooms to suit the extent of your preference. From the traditional Tatami Mat rooms, to luxurious Modern Japanese-Style rooms, there are a total of 55 rooms in hotel. Refresh in the contemporary bathroom, which boasts a separate bath and shower from the washroom together with luxurious Pola brand bathing products. Beds are extremely large and comfortable for that quick afternoon power nap and restful night slumber. Japanese artworks adorn the walls of the bedroom and toilet and window shades are made similar to what was used in yesteryear, sliding style with wood and Japanese paper. If guests prefer a dimmer ambiance a modern pull down blind is mounted on every window.

The Tatami mat styled rooms are a good option and can accommodate up to 5 people on traditional straw mats. A step up is the Japanese styled rooms with two single beds, and is spaciously cosy for two people. The semi western styled rooms is the next tier, followed by the Modern Japanese styled rooms. These rooms are definitely the crown jewels of the establishment with immaculate design and modern aesthetics that is comfortably chic. The latter two room categories comes with in-room breakfast and dinner service.

Dining

Dining at the Itō Kowaki-en is a beautiful affair. The restaurant boast some of the best seasonal delicacies in town. The breakfast buffet spread is absolutely scrumptious and much like the rest of the hotel, there is a perfect blend of continental and traditional Japanese cuisine. Scrambled eggs vs onsen eggs or pasta vs soba noodles, no need to contemplate when you can have all choices according to the regular changes in dishes.

The main event of course, being the dinner service, should be completely titillating for fans of Japanese cuisine. Itō revolves around two industries hot springs and fishing, making it home to some of the best culinary outfits in Japan. Itō Kowaki-en is no exception on this, with an amazing selection of seasonal fish, and produce, guest of the hotel will be spoilt for choices befitting royalty.

Onsen

The hotel offers both an indoor and outdoor hot spring experience that really captures the spirit of onsen. That being said, the facilities aren’t overly fancy or ultra chic, instead what you have is the authentic onsen experience, how it was tailored to suit the Japanese people, modernised over centuries of refinement. Experience the elegance and simplicity that is real onsen, the way it is supposed to be experienced.

Itō Kowaki-en doesn’t look like much judging from it’s exterior facade, but do not be fooled for like a good book, there are wondrous luxurious hidden just barely beneath the surface. For those feeling nostalgic and want to immersed themselves in originality or just looking for a different kind of escape, this is the little slice of perfection for you.