Ena Totaro

Emi-san and her family looked after us so well. The food was fantastic! Emi-san picked us up and dropped us off from the train station, she and her sister Junko-san welcomed us with a Matcha tea ceremony, taught me how to fold an origami crane while I was waiting for my boyfriend, taught us how to write our names in Katakana and we loved the onigiri making session. We also were lucky enough to come at a time when the Zazen morning meditation at the local Buddhist temple was offered. The rooms were so generous. We really had a wonderful time and were sad to leave. Thank you for everything Junko, Emi and your wonderful family.

Very friendly and helpful staff. Fine cooking.

My room was a bit noisy.

Totaro is such an absolute delight - from start to finish the hospitality and helpfulness of the staff, along with the quality of the food, was outstanding. The room is huge and sleeping on the a futon on the tatami mats was more comfy than I’d expected! Emi, her mum and her sisters do an amazing job running the place and I so enjoyed the dinner they prepared on both nights. The quality was excellent and it tasted delicious. Emi was also very happy to drop me at the railway station in Ena and pick me up after a day out. The onsen is small but perfect for a hotel of this size and was so relaxing after long days’ walking. There is masses to do in the area from walking the old Samurai trail to visiting beautiful old towns and villages. The small railway in Ena is also a highlight. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in this area, you’ve found it!

This traditional inn is a little jewel. We were blown away by the kindness and hospitality of the ladies who run the place. It’s located a bit outside of town, but Emi and Junko were always happy to give us a ride. The meals are gorgeously prepared feasts - good luck if you can finish! The hotel also arranged a “Zazen experience” at a historic temple nearby, which was very interesting. We will treasure our memories of the Totoro and its wonderful staff!

We enjoyed everything.

Japanese. Very good

The social bathrooms

Authenticity, staff, food

My first experience of a traditional Ryokan and Onsen- sleeping on futon on tatami mats and eating in a private dining room exquisitely prepared and presented food- a delight everywhere I looked

There was nothing I didn’t like