KanameanNishitomiya

One of the most memorable, most excellent hotels I've ever stayed. The husband and wife owners, the Nishidas, are delightful! They made sure everything was perfect. It's a really different experience for an American to stay in a true Ryokan. I've stayed in a number of Relais and Chateau properties around the world and most have been excellent. Kanamean Nishitomiya surpasses them all. It is a calm, serene place with unparalleled service. It is located in the perfect place, a block from Nishiki market, and close to excellent shopping and public transportation. My suite was perfect. I travel with washcloths because most international places do not have them. Kanamean Nishitomiya's staff saw my washcloths and left me some so I didn't have to use mine. It's the only place I stayed in Japan that had washcloths. That's just one small example of how they noticed my wants and needs and provided, unasked. The Nishitas really wanted to cook for me. The hotel's restaurant is Michelin rated and I am well known for having the palate of a 4 year old--an extremely unadventurous eater. But I figured if anyone could make weird Japanese food good it would be the Nishitas. They asked about my food preferences--no tomatoes (allergic) and not much fish (a tall order for Japan whose diets include a lot of fish). They prepared an 11 course dinner, starring the most delicious beef, just for me! It was not only delicious, every dish was a work of art. Three hours later I thought the Nishitas were magicians. The Soba with duck was especially memorable. That meal is one of my favorite memories of Japan. Kanamean Nishitomiya is more than an excellent hotel or restaurant. it's a special experience of which I will cherish the memories.