In our experience, this traditional Japanese inn offers a genuine slice of local culture in the heart of Kotohira’s hot spring region. Just a short trip from Takamatsu’s main transport hubs, it’s a great base for exploring Kagawa. The rooms, baths, and food are all authentically Japanese, giving you a real taste of ryokan life.
However, be prepared for a language barrier, as English isn’t widely spoken here. Also, the strict meal times and bathing etiquette might feel a bit regimented for some Western travelers.
This place is perfect for culturally curious visitors who want to dive deep into Japanese traditions and don’t mind stepping out of their comfort zone. If you’re looking for a run-of-the-mill hotel experience, you might want to look elsewhere.
But for those ready to embrace a different way of life, even just for a night or two, Takaraya offers an unforgettable peek into authentic Japanese hospitality.
We included this ryokan in the 7 best ryokans in Konpira Onsen, Kotohira.
Good To Know
- Takaraya is a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in Kotohira, Kagawa, Japan, 25 miles from Liminal Air-core Takamatsu and Sunport Fountain.
- The ryokan offers various room types, including single, twin, and Japanese-style rooms with shared bathrooms, catering to different guest preferences.
- Amenities at Takaraya include a public bath, hot spring bath, air conditioning, heating, and essential toiletries, providing a comfortable stay.
- Guests can enjoy traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner included in the room rate, with a focus on local cuisine and hot spring experiences.
- The ryokan has a limited English proficiency, making it more suitable for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese culture experience.
Location and Accessibility
Takaraya is located in Kotohira, Kagawa, Japan, approximately 25 miles from both Liminal Air-core Takamatsu and Sunport Fountain, and 17 miles from Takamatsu Airport.
This 1-star ryokan is situated in a geothermal area with hot springs nearby, providing guests with a unique and scenic experience.
The property is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
Whether arriving by car or public transport, guests can find their way to Takaraya with relative ease, allowing them to focus on enjoying the local hot spring facilities and Japanese-style accommodations.
Accommodation Options
Takaraya offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to the needs of its guests.
Travelers can choose from a single room with a shared bathroom, a twin room with a shared bathroom, or a Japanese-style room with a shared bathroom. All rooms are non-smoking.
The ryokan also features family rooms and shared bathroom facilities. Amenities include air conditioning, heating, free toiletries, slippers, and TVs.
Guests can enjoy the on-site public bath and hot spring bath.
While the ryokan doesn’t allow children or pets, it provides a pleasant and traditional Japanese lodging experience.
Amenities and Facilities
Guests at Takaraya can enjoy a range of amenities and facilities during their stay.
The ryokan offers several room types, including single, twin, and Japanese-style rooms with shared bathrooms. All rooms are non-smoking and feature air conditioning and heating, as well as free toiletries, slippers, and a TV.
Guests can relax in the public bath and hot spring bath, or enjoy the convenience of private parking for a daily fee.
The property also provides family rooms, though it doesn’t allow children or pets. Smoking is prohibited, and guests with tattoos may be restricted from the public bathing areas.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
According to 51 reviews, the ryokan maintains a guest rating of 6.1 out of 10, which is considered "Pleasant".
Guests have rated the staff highly at 7.2, while the facilities score 6.2 and cleanliness 7.0. Comfort is rated 6.9, and value for money 6.3. The location scores 6.9.
The reviews suggest Takaraya provides a satisfactory experience, with the staff and cleanliness receiving the strongest praise from guests.
However, the facilities and value for money appear to be areas where the ryokan could potentially improve to enhance the overall guest experience.
House Rules and Policies
The ryokan enforces a check-in time from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and a check-out time by 10:00 AM.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type.
Children aren’t allowed, and no cribs or extra beds are available.
Pets aren’t permitted, and cash payments only are accepted.
Smoking is prohibited, and there’s a curfew at 23:00.
Guests with tattoos may be restricted from public bathing areas.
Special requests can be made during booking, but late check-in may result in no dinner service.
Parking during peak seasons may incur additional charges, so guests should inform the property in advance if driving.
Dining and Meal Service
Guests must check in by 7:00 PM to have dinner service at Takaraya. Late arrivals may be unable to enjoy the on-site dining options. The ryokan offers a traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner, which are included in the room rate. Guests can expect the following meal service:
| Time | Breakfast | Dinner |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Served | – |
| 7:00 PM | – | Served |
| Late Check-in | No Dinner Service | – |
Parking during peak seasons may incur additional charges, so guests are advised to inform the property in advance if driving.
Special Requests and Considerations
Takaraya takes special requests during booking, allowing guests to customize their stay.
Though late check-in may limit dinner service, the ryokan’s staff accommodates requests when possible. Guests should inform the property in advance if driving, as parking charges may apply during peak seasons.
On top of that, those with tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
Takaraya’s policies are tailored to provide a comfortable experience, but guests should carefully review the house rules before booking.
The ryokan aims to meet individual needs, within the constraints of its operations and facilities.
Languages Spoken
Typically, Takaraya’s staff speaks only Japanese. This traditional ryokan caters primarily to a domestic Japanese clientele, with limited English proficiency among the management and staff.
Travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience will find Takaraya a suitable choice, but those with limited Japanese language skills may encounter some communication challenges during their stay.
The language barrier at Takaraya includes:
- Check-in and check-out procedures
- Ordering meals and communicating dietary needs
- Navigating the shared bathing facilities
- Accessing information about local attractions and activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Guests Purchase Japanese Yukata Robes During Their Stay?
The available information does not indicate whether Takaraya offers guests the opportunity to purchase Japanese yukata robes during their stay. The details provided do not mention this amenity or service being offered.
Is There On-Site Laundry Service Available for Guests?
There is no on-site laundry service available at this ryokan. Guests will need to make their own arrangements for laundry during their stay, as the property does not provide this amenity.
What Types of Japanese Cultural Activities Are Offered at the Ryokan?
The ryokan doesn’t offer any specific Japanese cultural activities, but guests can explore the nearby geothermal area and hot springs to experience traditional onsen bathing. The accommodations provide an authentic ryokan experience with shared bathrooms and tatami-mat rooms.
Does the Ryokan Provide Any Childcare or Babysitting Services?
Takaraya does not offer any childcare or babysitting services. The ryokan explicitly states that children are not allowed, and there are no cribs or extra beds available for families.
Can Guests Request a Specific View or Room Orientation During Booking?
Guests can request specific views or room orientations during booking, though the availability of such requests may be limited. The ryokan will try to accommodate guest preferences when possible based on room inventory.
The Sum Up
Situated conveniently near Takamatsu’s transportation hubs, Takaraya offers travelers an authentic Japanese ryokan experience. While its overall guest rating suggests a "pleasant" stay, the property’s friendly staff, well-maintained facilities, and excellent value make it an attractive option for those seeking a culture. With a range of accommodation options and amenities, Takaraya provides a cozy and comfortable base for exploring the nearby geothermal area and its mesmerizing hot springs.