Mastlamp: A Small Hotel with Natural Hot Spring Flow

Located in the mountainous region of the Izu Peninsula, this accommodation is built on a sloped site along a narrow, steep road in the outskirts of Ito. The detached building still retains the fresh scent of new wood. More details can be found on the accommodation's website. From the second floor, you can enjoy views of Ito's sea. A river flows through a valley to the south of the property, and you can constantly hear its soothing sounds.The bath features a fan-shaped tub approximately 1.5 meters wide with natural hot spring water at an ideal temperature. The slightly salty water feels warm even during winter. The glass doors on both the south and west sides of the bathroom fully open, with access to a terrace on the west side. While there is another detached building located just below to the south that limits distant views, it offers an atmosphere perfect for enjoying forest bathing.Dinner is served simultaneously in a dining area where all guests gather quietly. For an additional charge, you can turn your main bouillabaisse dish into risotto by adding rice or eggs at your preference.

A serene and relaxing time awaits even solo travelers. The room features an open-air bath and a private terrace, welcoming you as if gently embracing your daily fatigue. The cuisine highlights French dishes centered on fresh seafood from Izu and locally sourced vegetables. Among them, the standout was the renowned lobster bouillabaisse, offering a rich depth of flavor that encapsulates the blessings of the sea. The soup harmoniously blended the essence of seafood and vegetables, leaving a lasting impression. Afterward, I requested "just a little" risotto made with the same soup but ended up finishing it entirely—it was that delightful. From dinner to breakfast, every dish reflected meticulous craftsmanship by the accommodation staff, leaving a deep impression on my heart.Another aspect that moved me was the harmony of water, light, and sound. At the private large stone open-air bath located just outside your room, initially shrouded in darkness with no visible scenery, your eyes gradually adjust to reveal a beautifully illuminated garden—a scene so delicate it resembles an exquisite painting that quietly soothes your soul. The garden's landscaping is meticulously maintained with thoughtful care evident throughout—even extending to every corner of each guest room."La riviere" offers an exclusive space for enjoying "time with water and warmth," complete with a private sauna where you can soak in hot water while listening to the gentle murmur of a river—a truly luxurious experience. The placement of open-air baths is carefully designed to harmonize perfectly with nature’s greenery and sky while balancing privacy seamlessly.Similarly impressive is how light is delicately handled in semi-open-air baths within guest rooms; soft downlights illuminate only around bathtubs subtly blending reflections on water surfaces into outdoor views peacefully merging together.From window heights or roof overhangs down through lighting hues or slight protrusions near bedside shelves—every detail reflects thoughtful design prioritizing guests' comfort during their stay—even small spaces like smartphone holders combine convenience alongside elegance effortlessly!This attention-to-detail hospitality paired alongside tranquil surroundings provided profound relaxation making me eager already planning another visit soon!