Araya Totoan

Set along the mountains of the Ishikawa Prefecture, Araya Totoan is a beautifully designed, traditional ryokan hotel with views of the natural landscape and private baths.

• The natural light, light wood and open windows of the rooms that allow travelers to fully immerse themselves into the lush landscape of Kaga
• The private outdoor terrace and onsens fed by the natural hot springs of Kaga, attached to each room

Araya Totoan is a beautifully designed, traditional ryokan that has been run by the same family for eighteen generations. The property is bright, clean and calming, with only seven rooms, allowing guests to feel the warmth and attentiveness of Japanese hospitality. The rooms embrace the minimalism of the Japanese ryokan experience, with warm-hued cedar wood, woven mat floors and low tables lined with cushioned seating. The private onsens in each room—many of which are double-tiered baths—are fed by the natural springs that have made Kaga a sought after destination and are the epitome of relaxation. Guests also have the option to join the communal bath area.

Upon arrival, like many ryokans, guests remove their shoes and are given socks and traditional yukatas to wear around the property. For those unfamiliar with a traditional Kaiseki dinner, a delicious 12-course meal of traditional food can be served in your room or a private dining room. It is a must for first time travelers to Araya Totoan.

Another must: taking the time to simply relax in the room. Few moments are as soothing as opening the sliding door onto a private terrace overlooking the lush greenery of Ishikawa after a private onsen bath—at Araya Totoan, this kind of ease is expected.

Friends, couples and families with older children who want to experience a traditional Japanese experience in a serene and natural setting for one or two nights

The draw of Kaga is its landscape and hot springs, so a short but revitalizing trip is recommended.

30 minutes by train from the city of Kanazawa or a 30 minutes driving from the Komatsu airport

Some of the staff will know very limited English.