The only hotel in the Iya Valley, natural influences are evident in the Hotel Iya Onsen at every level, whether it’s the artwork reflecting the beauty of the gorge, or seasonal produce on the restaurant’s menu. The hotel’s unique feature is the cable car ride to the secluded open-air baths at the bottom of the valley. It is a five-minute journey with wonderful panoramas as you go. At the bottom, you’ll find hot spring baths fed directly from a nearby source, and which promise skin cleansing and health benefits. The tranquillity of the spot is unrivalled, as the onsen bubbles out over the gently meandering river
Rooms at the hotel also make use of the valley, with large windows or terraces looking out over the gorge. All are tastefully decorated in Japanese style with tatami mats and futon beds. Ample space is provided by a special area for relaxing, and a massage chair is a feature in each room. You can choose between indoor and outdoor baths.
Time and care is taken over food at the hotel. Fresh ingredients are sourced to cook creative options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and served in either the restaurant or café. Kaiseki, a traditional Japanese set course dinner, is offered, so you will be able to sample local cuisine.