KANSHUKUEN ESHIKOTO

I stayed at Kanshuku-en ESHIKOTO for four nights over the New Year holidays, and it was truly an unforgettable experience.The highlights were the crab dishes and the Onsen. Every crab dish was outstanding, bringing out the best of the ingredients and letting me fully enjoy winter’s seasonal flavors. The Onsen, nestled in a quiet mountain setting, was deeply soothing—simply soaking made both body and mind feel completely relaxed.The scenery throughout my stay was equally memorable: mystical clouds rising from the mountains, and a dreamlike winter landscape as snow gently settled on the trees. Everything was breathtakingly beautiful, as if time had stopped.A zazen meditation experience at nearby Eiheiji Temple also made the trip especially meaningful. Spending quiet time facing myself in its solemn, crystal-clear atmosphere was truly rare. I also joined the early-morning service where trainee monks chant sutras; it was bitterly cold with falling snow, but it became a precious moment to reset my mind.Overall, it was a journey that fulfilled my heart, body, and all five senses—an ideal way to spend New Year’s. I hope to return again this coming year-end.

I had stayed at SUIKIYO several times before, and when I heard they opened a new accommodation in Fukui, I wanted to visit if given the chance. Finally, my wish came true. The large windows enhanced the spacious feel of the room with its open view, creating a relaxing and soothing atmosphere. Dinner was French cuisine, featuring seasonal local ingredients that were both visually appealing and delicious. Breakfast was a satisfying Japanese set meal with freshly cooked rice enjoyed alongside beautiful scenery. The only downside, as others have mentioned, is that being in such a nature-rich location inevitably comes with some challenges—there were quite a few intruders through window gaps like crickets and frogs. While I'm not particularly bothered by them, it can still be distracting when they come into view... I also enjoyed visiting the adjacent ESHIKOTO and would love to return during another season. Thank you for your hospitality!