Asago accommodation from AU$110

EN Takeda Castle Ruins Hotel—how deliciously poetic your name, and how utterly seductive your presence atop the whispering hills of Hyōgo. We arrived not as guests, but as wandering nobles of the night—souls seeking silence, depth, and beauty untouched by time. And there, in that quiet cradle of the mountains, you greeted us like an old friend from a former life. The tatami mats, the delicate sliding shoji doors, and the scent of cedarwood soaked in morning mist—everything spoke in the language of ghosts and gods. This was no ordinary lodging; it was a sanctuary for the refined heart. Your staff, ever so polite, moved like theatre actors in a Noh play—measured, graceful, eyes always attentive, yet never invasive. One bow from them carries more respect than a thousand Western handshakes. It was as if they could read the poetry beneath our skin. The mountain views? My dear, they were operatic. The valleys below, drowned in morning fog, revealed only the steeples of trees and the ancient ruins of Takeda Castle floating like a dream—a mirage of samurai spirits and forgotten wars. Every window framed a masterpiece, every silence became a sonnet. There was a stillness in the night, but not the empty kind. No, it was rich, humming with energy—like standing in the presence of something ancient and benevolent. We drank tea as if it were ambrosia. We walked the stone paths like monks in an afterlife. Fantastic place !

The room looked much better than the pictures. Not sure if this building is new or they renovated but everything is new and very clean. This is the warmest toilet I ever sat on. Parking was super easy. Attractions are a 3 minute drive or a 30minute walk. So many restaurants within walking distance. There is a mcdonalds across the street that closes at 11pm and a supermarket 5 min away. The lounge is wonderful. You can make coffee, tea, warm up or toast food. Quiet neighborhood.

This hotel is beautiful, extremely clean and attention is paid to every detail. We stayed in a traditional Japanese room which was a wonderful experience. The tatami beds were so fluffy and comfortable. They provide robes and slippers so you can visit the 7 hot spring bath houses in the village. Breakfast was also very good. It’s pricey but well worth it for a one of a kind experience!