Escape to Japan: Secluded Ancient Home, Mt. Iwabitsu Views (1 Couple Only!)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! Because we’re diving headfirst into a review of this… Escape to Japan: Secluded Ancient Home, Mt. Iwabitsu Views (1 Couple Only!) place. Honestly, the name alone is already whispering promises, isn't it? Let's see if it delivers on them, shall we? And yeah, I'm gonna be real with you. Think more "rambling travel buddy" than "sterile travel critic."
SEO Keyword Jumble (because, ugh, that's what you have to do, right?): Japan, secluded, ancient home, Mt. Iwabitsu views, couple's retreat, luxury, spa, onsen, romantic getaway, accessibility, Wi-Fi, dining, food, cleanliness, safety, reviews, best hotels Japan, unique stays, travel couples, honeymoon. (Did I get enough? Prolly not.)
Alright, Let's Dig In (and Get REAL):
First things first, the vibe. They're selling “secluded ancient home.” And honestly, from the photos, it looks the part. Think exposed beams, maybe a tatami mat or two, and that all-important location, location, location. We're talking views of Mt. Iwabitsu. Now, I don't know about you, but I'm a sucker for a good mountain view. It's like nature's built-in Instagram filter.
Accessibility: Okay, This is Important (and I need coffee).
This is where things get… murky. While the listing does mention “Facilities for disabled guests”… that's vague. REALLY vague. And that's a red flag. You absolutely NEED to follow up with the hotel directly to confirm what, specifically, is accessible. Are we talking ramps? Grab bars? Braille signage? Because "facilities" could mean anything. So if accessibility is a requirement, consider it only possible if you call and inquire directly.
*Pacing Break: I'm picturing myself, attempting a graceful entry into a *ryokan* while leaning heavily on a cane. Not ideal. Seriously, gotta call. Gotta ask.*
On-site Restaurants/Lounges:
Okay, so, "Restaurants" are listed, multiple times. Yay! Are there bars? Yep. Coffee shops? Yep. That's a good start. This could mean you have options, other than being locked in your hut with instant ramen. But. "Buffet in restaurant"? "Asian cuisine in restaurant"? "Western cuisine in restaurant?" Sounds like they're trying to cover all the bases, which can sometimes mean they really excel at… nothing. Need to read REAL reviews to get the scoop.
Wheelchair Accessible:
See "Accessibility" above. Call. Call. Call.
Internet, Internet, Internet! (Because, Let's Be Real, We're All Addicted)
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! YES! Thank the gods. Internet access - wireless! DOUBLE YES! Internet [LAN]? Fancy! Maybe for your work-from-home husband who's "working" on the trip too. But seriously, good Wi-Fi is a MUST for me. I need to share my mountain views with the world. And stalk my ex on Instagram. Don't judge.
Things to Do / Ways to Relax (Oh, the Luxury…)
Here's where things get interesting. "Spa." "Sauna." "Massage." "Pool with view." "Foot bath." "Steamroom." ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! Okay, this is where they might get me. The "Pool with view" is a MAJOR draw. Picture it: me, floating in a (hopefully) heated pool, gazing at the glorious Mt. Iwabitsu. Pure bliss.
Confession: I'm not a "body scrub" person. I'm more a "sit in a sauna and contemplate my life choices" person. But hey, options!
The Single Most Important Thing: The Onsen Experience…
I'm throwing ALL caution to the wind. I am envisioning this as a romantically-lit sanctuary of relaxation. I've heard some of these ancient homes have onsen (hot springs). And if this place has one? Forget it. I am SOLD. If it's private, too? Game over. Now that is a "way to relax". Imagine: I can soak my tired traveler's bones, while looking at that view. A private onsen. I will need to be peeled from the tub by my equally relaxed man.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, COVID is Real)
Okay, a boatload of features: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Doctor/nurse on call, Hand sanitizer, Hot water linen and laundry washing, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment.
This is… impressive. Like, they're taking things VERY seriously. Which is EXACTLY what you want, especially right now. Makes you feel safe to enjoy the peace.
Pacing Break: Okay, okay, I'm feeling good so far. This place SEEMS to get it. But I'm still skeptical. Have to dig for REAL reviews. You know, the ones that tell you if the "free bottled water" comes from an actual bottle or is just tap water they spiff up. (Important.)
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Food Glorious Food!)
A la carte in restaurant, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant – This is an impressive list of options. Hopefully, it includes some AMAZING Japanese food. I'm dreaming of sushi, ramen, and all the deliciousness. If the breakfast is good? Swoon.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Luxuries)
Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor/outdoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center.
Again, this is a good list. I appreciate the inclusion of "convenience store" because… snacks. Always snacks.
For the Kids (Or Not, This is a "Couple Only!" Place, remember?!)
Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal - Umm, ignore. This is a couple's place. No judgment, but, I would be slightly annoyed if there were children running amok in my serene mountain retreat.
Access (How to Get to This Heaven?)
CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private], Exterior corridor, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms, Pets allowed unavailable, Proposal spot, Safety/security feature, Security [24-hour], Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms.
Seems nice and secure. Private check-in is always a winner. And the "Proposal spot?" Okay, I'm officially intrigued. Maybe I'll write a sequel! (Just kidding… maybe.)
Getting Around (Transportation)
Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking.
Excellent. Free parking is always a bonus. Airport transfer is essential. I don't want to deal with the stress of public transport after a long flight.
Available in All Rooms (The Nitty-Gritty)
Okay, now we're down to the details! Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
Honestly, this is
Unbelievable Salt Key House Studio in Praid, Romania: You HAVE to See This!
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive headfirst into a stay at 麻の里の宿asanone – that ridiculously exclusive, one-group-only, ancient-house-in-the-middle-of-nowhere place, in Nakanojo, Japan. And believe me, I'm already picturing myself needing a stiff drink at the end of this… because planning stuff, even pretend travel, is exhausting.
Day 1: Arrival, Reverie, and Rice… Maybe Not So Much
- 1:00 PM (ish) – The Train Ride of Eternal Patience (and Questionable Snacks): So, first things first, the journey. Getting to Nakanojo is basically a lesson in zen. Endless train rides, punctuated by the occasional, slightly stale, convenience store onigiri. Honestly, by the time I arrive, I'm pretty sure I'll be a pro at staring out the window, wondering if I can get away with eating my weight in those weird, chewy Japanese candies. My initial excitement of planning started from the excitement of going through the itinerary.
- 4:00 PM (ish) – Arrival at Asanone and… Woah. Finally, the grand entrance. Assuming I haven't gotten lost in the wilderness of Japanese countryside (which is a very real possibility), I'll be met with the sight of this ancient farmhouse. My first reaction? "Okay, this is either ridiculously romantic or a complete disaster." Gotta keep an open mind, right? I'm already imagining the creaks, the drafts, probably a few spiders. God, I hate spiders.
- 4:30 PM – Check-in and Exploration: (Mostly Hiding From Spiders): The host (fingers crossed they speak some English, because my Japanese is roughly equivalent to a toddler's interpretation of quantum physics) gives me the grand tour. I'm instantly drawn to the tatami rooms - feeling that soft, comforting touch of tradition. Then, the lurking suspicion sets in: "How many spiders have made THIS their home?" I'll have to feign bravery.
- 6:00 PM – Dinner Preparations (Attempted): Here's the rub: Asanone is all about self-sufficiency. Which translates to "cook your own damn dinner." And, well, I'm a disaster in the kitchen. I'm picturing myself burning rice, mangling vegetables, and ultimately resorting to instant ramen. (Don't judge me.) The upside? The instructions probably include a recipe, and I can blame them when I mess up. It's been a long day, I might just get a takeout of some kind.
- 7:30 PM – Dinner of (Temporary) Triumph (or Utter Failure): Either I've somehow managed to produce a passable meal, or I'm huddled in a corner, quietly sobbing over a bowl of instant noodles. Either way, I'll be toasting to the experience with whatever beverage is on hand. Maybe a local sake, or maybe I'll be a complete cliche and go for a beer. Let's hope the food is edible.
- 8:30 PM – Stargazing (or, More Likely, Cowering in Fear of the Dark): The brochure promised stunning views of the night sky. My internal dialogue is screaming "SPIDERS!" But I'll venture outside, if only for a few minutes. Maybe I'll even see a shooting star, and make a wish (that the heating holds up).
Day 2: Rock, Roots, and Maybe a Breakdown
- 7:00 AM – Wake Up, Stretch, and Contemplate My Existential Dread: Let's be real, I'm not a morning person. But the crisp mountain air might actually force me out of a coma. I'll attempt some stretching, probably pull a muscle, and then spend a good hour contemplating all the things I'm not good at.
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast (Assuming the Kitchen Hasn't Collapsed): Another round of culinary challenges! Did I mention I'm not a morning person? Breakfast will be a test of my resolve. Eggs and toast? A fruit bowl? Or maybe just a handful of despair.
- 9:00 AM – Hiking Iwabitsu-yama (The Mountain of Regret - Possibly): This is the "big" activity. Iwabitsu-yama, a volcanic rock formation that apparently looks like a giant ship. Hiking. I'm not exactly known for my mountaineering prowess. I might be slow. I might complain. I will definitely need multiple breaks. And let's hope I don't encounter any snakes. I will probably be muttering to myself the entire time.
- 12:00 PM – Picnic (If I Made it Up the Mountain - Or, at the Bottom): Assuming I survived the hike (or at least didn't fall off a cliff), a picnic lunch awaits! Sandwiches, snacks, and a whole lot of appreciation for sitting down. This will be my reward.
- 1:00 PM – MORE Hiking! (Maybe): Okay, so the brochure said "explore the trails." My internal monologue is saying, "Are you sure you want to do this?" Depending on how battered I am, I might bail and just find a nice rock to sit on.
- 3:00 PM – Contemplation and a Long Soak: After my rock-climbing/walking adventure, it's time to relax. There's likely a traditional Japanese bath (fingers crossed it's not infested with critters). Think a long, hot soak, letting my muscles melt away.
- 6:00 PM – Dinner (Round Two of Culinary Roulette): Tonight, I should probably have learned something from yesterday's culinary disasters. I'll attempt something slightly more ambitious. Or, you know, I'll just eat whatever's left from lunch.
- 8:00 PM – Quiet Enjoyment (or, More Likely, Netflix and Chill… In an Ancient House): The evening will be spent relaxing, reading a book (probably something escapist, like a fantasy novel), or maybe just staring into the void. Hey, after a day like this, I've earned the right to do absolutely nothing.
Day 3: Departure and the Post-Traumatic Stress of Ancient Charm
- 7:00 AM – Attempted Meditation (More Like Staring Out the Window, Contemplating the Meaning of Life): I'll try to embrace some inner peace. I'll stare at the scenery, I'll take a deep breath, and I'll probably end up thinking about breakfast.
- 8:00 AM – Farewell Breakfast (Hopefully Without Incident): One last meal in this ancient house. One final chance to prove that I haven't completely lost my culinary skills.
- 9:00 AM – Pack, Clean, and Pray the Spiders Haven't Moved In My Luggage: The dreaded clean-up. Tidying the place, leaving no trace, and hoping that I haven't accidentally taken any unwelcome guests home with me.
- 11:00 AM – The Long Goodbye (or, The Relief of Leaving): Saying goodbye to Asanone. I will be happy and relieved.
- 12:00 PM – The Train Ride of Reflection (and Candy Overload): Back on the train, reflecting on my adventure. Did I survive? Did I learn something? Probably not. But I have a whole bunch of memories, and probably some amazing photos.
So there you have it. A messy, honest, slightly sarcastic, and very human itinerary for my stay at Asanone. Wish me luck. And send chocolate. Lots and lots of chocolate.
Escape to Paradise: Sekar Kuning Villa, Bali - Your Dream Vacation Awaits!
Escape to Japan: Secluded Ancient Home, Mt. Iwabitsu Views - (For One Couple ONLY!)
Okay, so you're thinking about ditching the real world and running off to a freaking ancient Japanese house with a view of the mountains? Good on ya. But before you dive headfirst into Zen and questionable plumbing (probably), let's talk FAQs. This is gonna be a messy, honest, and hopefully helpful look at the experience. Prepare to be overwhelmed with information (like I was!)
1. What is this place, *really*? Is it *actually* secluded?
Okay, settle down. "Secluded" is the operative word here. Think *serious* seclusion. We’re talking, you *might* see a local farmer on his way to the rice fields, and that's it. My partner and I were utterly flabbergasted when we arrived. We were so used to the chaos of Tokyo, the peace was almost... unsettling at first. We drove down this tiny, winding road, and then BAM! There it was. Honestly, the pictures don't do it justice. The mountains loom, silent and watchful. Yes, it's secluded. So secluded that I nearly screamed when I realized I'd forgotten my phone charger. (Yes, I'm attached. Judge me.)
Pro-Tip: Download offline maps! And maybe bring a good book. You'll have *lots* of time to read.
2. Is it *romantic*? Cause, like, that's the point, right? My relationship is kind of...iffy.
Oh, it's romantic. If you're into that whole "ancient house, stunning views, and being miles from civilization" thing. But here’s the honest truth: your relationship will be tested. Seriously. You're trapped. Together. With only each other and the occasional spider. We had some… *intense* conversations about the proper way to brew tea (I was clearly right, by the way).
The Moment of Truth: The first evening, watching the sunset paint Mt. Iwabitsu in fiery hues, my partner squeezed my hand…and I, overcome by a sudden wave of exhaustion, accidentally ripped a serious fart. Romantic? Yes. Always picture-perfect? Absolutely not. It’s about the real moments, the slightly embarrassing ones, too.
3. Okay, so tell me about the house *itself*. Is it...stuck in the past?
Stuck in the past? Honey, it *is* the past. Like, legit old. Think creaky floors, low ceilings (watch your head!), and a bathroom that's… well, let’s just say modern plumbing is NOT their forte. But that’s part of the charm, right? It's rustic, it's charming, and it's probably haunted. (I swear I heard a floorboard creak in the middle of the night. Or maybe it was my partner snoring… hard to tell.)
The Plumbing Predicament: The toilet situation? Let's just say I developed a whole new appreciation for modern conveniences. And the water heater… well, it had a mind of its own. Cold showers became an unexpected… adventure. (I'm not going to sugarcoat this. It sucked.) But then, you get used to it. You adapt. Then you appreciate the boiling hot onsen (if there is one) 10 times more!
4. What about food? Do I have to forage for my dinner? (I’m a terrible cook.)
Thank God, no foraging! Usually, your stay includes some sort of food arrangement, maybe a bento box delivered, or the option to have a local cook come in. Check specifics! We went with the local cook, and it was mind-blowing. Seriously, the *best* meal I've had in years. Perfectly cooked fish, fresh vegetables from the local farms… It was unreal. Of course, you're in the middle of nowhere. Plan your grocery trips well in advance. We forgot soy sauce. Disaster.
5. Mt. Iwabitsu. The views. Are they *really* as amazing as everyone says?
Okay, this is where I get *really* dramatic. Yes. The views are insane. You wake up, open the shutters, and BAM! Mt. Iwabitsu, this majestic, brooding presence, dominating the landscape. The way the light changes throughout the day… it's truly breathtaking. I spent hours just staring at it. It's not just a view; it's an experience. A humbling, awe-inspiring experience. I swear, I saw a little fox running by one evening. Then an occasional deer. It's nature, baby!
**The Moment of Reckoning**: The sunrise from the porch. I’m not a morning person. But I *dragged* myself out of bed every single day just to witness that sunrise. Honestly, best part of the whole trip. You’ll forgive the creaky floors after seeing that.
6. What should I PACK? Besides common sense.
Okay, beyond the essential, here's the real scoop. First and foremost, comfortable clothes. Layers are key. You're in the mountains, so the weather can change on a dime. Bring a good book (or three), a journal, maybe a deck of cards for those inevitable rainy days. Oh, and a flashlight. Seriously. It gets DARK out there. And you're gonna want bug spray, as many bugs as you can imagine! Also, adapters! And a portable phone charger!!! And some good walking shoes. There are trails! Though... wear sturdy footwear.
The Unsung Hero: A small, portable speaker. Trust me. Nothing beats listening to your favorite music or podcasts while soaking in the view. (Just don't blast your tunes at 3 AM, *okay*?) Oh, and a first-aid kit. Always a good idea.
7. Is it worth the money? Because this looks…expensive.
Let's be honest. It *is* an investment. Is it worth it? That depends. If you're looking for a luxurious, five-star resort experience, absolutely not. If you're seeking a genuine escape, a chance to unplug, reconnect with your partner, and experience something truly unique? Then, perhaps. It's an immersive experience. The feeling of complete isolation, the stunning scenery, the chance to slow down… those things are priceless. I'm biased, obviously, I want to go back.
The Bottom Line: Consider it a splurge. Think of it as an investment in your peace of mind. And maybe a slightly unconventional, but ultimately unforgettable, romantic getaway.
8. Anything else I REALLY need to know before I goHotel Bliss Search
