Takahan is very historic and it’s a very traditional ryokan although on our initial entrance it didn’t look particularly traditional with its chandeliers and escalator up to the first floor!

I love staying in traditional ryokan rooms and our Takahan room was no exception. It was a smallish room but this is pretty typical for a standard ryokan. Our room offered great views across the valley and it became even prettier as the lights about town came on, and the night skiing commenced. The views from the onsen were also rather special.

The kaiseki dinner was exquisite and it was nice not to have to sit on the floor, but rather at a civilised table with chairs. Breakfast was also excellent and whilst it was very Japanese, there were a few western type items as well.

The friendliness of the staff was another highlight of Takahan.

Town is within walking distance if you want to go out to dinner to have variety in your evening meals, but as it’s not a quick walk, this ryokan is probably well suited to short stays where you can make the most of the delicately prepared meals at the ryokan.
See our video here