Beniya Mukayu

The ryokan has two onsen areas, both featuring a spring-fed indoor and open-air bath, and sauna. There's also a spa with an array of healing treatments based on long-held traditions, and a trio of libraries, each with its own purpose and style, whether that's acting as a tranquil spot facing the forest or showcasing the artwork of Tatsuo Miyajima. The Kaiseki Horin spills onto a terrace with views of the lush garden, where you can enjoy omakase-style breakfast and dinner.

Choose from a selection of Japanese and western-style rooms, all dressed in soothing tones with tatami floors and bamboo hardware. Each opens onto a private veranda where your own onsen bath awaits; enjoy a soak whilst taking in the garden views. The rooms differ most greatly in their sleeping arrangements, which are either standard beds or futon mattresses. The ryokan's most high-end offering is the Wakamurasaki Suite that looks over a 100-year-old cherry blossom tree through floor-to-ceiling sliding doors.

You'll likely want to spend ample time in the restorative waters of Beniya Mukayu's onsen baths, but there's also a number of activities to enjoy when you're not soaking. Local artisans offer classes in a variety of different pastimes including applying gold leaf to colourful Kutaniyaki porcelain, Kamisuki paper making, flower arranging and Chashaku whittling. You can also join a mountain master on a hike exploring Ozuchi and admire its traditional clay houses. The area is also famous for woodturning and lacquerware, which you can learn all about at a studio in the mountains.