Although we’ve stayed at Japanese ryokan many times, this was our first experience of a hanok stay, and it didn’t disappoint. Same warm welcome (with a cup of green tea and a wedge of apple), same simple aesthetics and same temptingly snug futon-like mattresses on the floor. What was different? The ondol underfloor heating, which was deliciously warm underfoot but if anything a little too hot for sleeping on, with the heat seeping up through the mattresses a little too efficiently. The gloriously-scented sauna experience. And the breakfast, which was a delicious vegetable-infused rice porridge, grilled mackerel, pickles and a bowl of fresh yoghurt with blueberries, nuts and dried fruits. The location is beautiful too, and so peaceful, with nothing more than birdsong and a cock crowing to break the silence. It was a little too cold to be able to enjoy the delightful private seating area on the veranda to the side of the building but in a week or two that will be a lovely place to enjoy an evening drink (bring your own!) or a morning cuppa. Thoroughly recommended
Travel Asia with Secret Retreats
Secret Retreats is a curated community of independent boutique hotel, villas, yachts and river boats keen to share their Asian Homes with travelers, sustainably and responsibly.
Conservation of the environment, culture and traditions of Asia is of paramount importance to all in Secret Retreats.
A community of like-minded hospitality professionals, we offer our guests authentic travel experiences that go beyond typical offerings to unveil the essence of Asia. Supporting the Asia based hoteliers and hospitality professionals and providing incredible holidays in Asia and tailor-made Asia travel itineraries direct to public ad travel agents.
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