Matsuzakaya Honten

“Lovely authentic experience”

We had a wonderful, deeply relaxing stay at this property, which offered a truly authentic experience. The service was thoughtful, and the staff were absolutely stellar. We loved having a private pool, though the public pools also looked excellent—just note that the water is very warm. The food was… more

We had a wonderful, deeply relaxing stay at this property, which offered a truly authentic experience. The service was thoughtful, and the staff were absolutely stellar. We loved having a private pool, though the public pools also looked excellent—just note that the water is very warm. The food was a bit too traditional for my personal taste, but anyone who loves Japanese cuisine will be delighted. Also, there’s no need to pack much clothing, as traditional outfits are provided (although it's a little cold in some of the public spaces). Highly recommended.

less

“Great place and great people”

I recently stayed at this lovely hotel in Honkne, Japan, and I can’t say enough good things about the experience. The place is absolutely beautiful, blending traditional Japanese charm with all the modern amenities you could need. The hot springs were a highlight—peaceful, authentic, and just what … more

I recently stayed at this lovely hotel in Honkne, Japan, and I can’t say enough good things about the experience. The place is absolutely beautiful, blending traditional Japanese charm with all the modern amenities you could need. The hot springs were a highlight—peaceful, authentic, and just what I needed to unwind. What really stood out, though, was the service. Everything was spotless and smooth, but more importantly, the staff truly cared. I want to give a special thank you to Takahashi-san. Not only was he a great receptionist, but he also helped me through a situation I didn’t expect—handling a car accident that required a police report. He was incredibly patient, kind, and thorough. Thanks to him, what could’ve been a stressful ordeal was resolved quickly and calmly. I’m genuinely grateful for his help. This hotel is more than just a nice place to stay—it’s somewhere you feel supported and welcome. I’d love to come back again.

less

“Beautiful, historic ryokan”

Stayed here during the last two days of our trip to Japan. We had two rooms for a multigenerational family of 7 (from 9 months to 63). The hospitality was outstanding, and we felt totally pampered. The food was next level! Meals are served breakfast and dinner only, but with the variety and q… more

Stayed here during the last two days of our trip to Japan. We had two rooms for a multigenerational family of 7 (from 9 months to 63). The hospitality was outstanding, and we felt totally pampered. The food was next level! Meals are served breakfast and dinner only, but with the variety and quantity of each kaiseki meal, you have plenty to eat. The care that is taken with flavor, presentation, and authenticity is second to none. We were able to take advantage of both our private in-room onsen, as well as a reserved separate private onsen. This historic ryokan had common areas such as a reading room, game room, lounge area, tasteful gift shop, and beverage station. If you stay for at least 2 nights, the location of this ryokan offers access for day trips to Lake Ashi, Owakadani volcanic valley (with views of Mt. Fuji), and the Hakone Open Air Museum. The staff somehow made us feel like both honored guests and welcome family. The emphasis at this ryokan is on total relaxation, and we welcomed this at the end of adventure packed trip. It was worth every penny.

less

“The Hotel of Many Staircases”

I was told that this hotel is 360 years old and a lot of it is original. If you are looking for a traditional Japanese experience and a wonderful staff then this is certainly place to check into. When my travel agent suggested it,I read the reviews on this site and thought it sounded wonderful. Th… more

I was told that this hotel is 360 years old and a lot of it is original. If you are looking for a traditional Japanese experience and a wonderful staff then this is certainly place to check into. When my travel agent suggested it,I read the reviews on this site and thought it sounded wonderful. They will accommodate food allergies which is a huge plus. When I arrived I was unhappily surprised. As a senior and a solo, I was very uncomfortable with the room I was given. It was up and down multiple staircases. There is No Elevator in this hotel! My room was located far from the main areas. Additionally, it was a duplex. There was a large very traditional Japanese living area. My personal mineral bath was located outdoors and the room’s only shower was indoors but close by. The refrigerator was also located on this level. The bedroom was located up a narrow, circular staircase. There was a bathroom upstairs but there wasn’t even a bar of soap in it. I had to take one from the downstairs shower room. As is traditional, the bed was very low to the ground making it difficult for me to get up. I had asked my travel agent for a western style bed. I guess because it’s a very old building, there are multiple little staircases. The one from the bedroom to the bathroom was the biggest worry for me. I was terrified that I would trip. I was scheduled to stay for two nights but I left after one because I didn’t feel safe and both my room and the hallways are cold. I don’t know if I will get my money back. This is a charming place but people need to understand what they’re getting prior to reserving. If you’re a senior or have a mobility challenge , request a one level room that is not up and down multiple staircases. I wish someone had written a review like this before I allowed my travel agent to book this hotel for me. Either I would have had a more appropriate room or I would have gone elsewhere.

less