Having lived in Japan for 13 years, expected it to be reasonably good (as the price suggested). Wrong. As we arrived, we were attacked by a team of middle-aged Japanese women. They shouted continuously those few words in English that they knew and kept pushing us around as if we were kids. We told them that we could understand and... More

I stayed for one night in Sakoya with my mother and my girlfriend in the charming but sleepy Yoshino. I have stayed in many Ryokan`s over the years, so the novelty factor has kind of worn off. To really enjoy a stay in a nice Ryokan is easy though. Whats not to like? They are clean, the foods nearly always... More

We spent three nights at the Sakoya, and couldn't have been more pleased! From our greeting upon arrival to our departure, everything was perfect. The staff was totally committed to making guests happy and satisfied. While we were checking in, we were presented with a sort of ginger pudding which hit the spot (four train changes had really made us... More

Yoshino is a beautiful part of Japan and if there for sakura season in early April I highly recommend a visit. Sakoya was not a cheap hotel by any means and the most expensive we had for the trip, but it was really nice. The location was good and central although we walked from the top of the cable car... More

Couldn't get any accomodation in Nara in Cherry Blossom season so tried "Japanese Guesthouses' who found this Ryokan on Yoshino. The building is very old, beautiful and our room was stunning. Huge beautifully furnished (Japanese style) and with the most stunning views of the cherry blossom and mountains. The food was outstanding - meals all inclusive. Our waitress was delightful;... More

I wanted to try a ryokan whilst in Japan but was nervous about straying from the comfort of western style hotels where I know how things operate. The trip to Yoshino took us to the very end of the train line deep into the countryside, so we were understandably releived the taxi driver knew the Sakoya (we had printed out... More