Sansuien Standard Twin Room (Kaiseki Dinner, Breakfast Buffet)

We arrived at Matsuyama Airport around 2:30 PM and took a bus to Kochi, arriving just in time for our pre-arranged check-in at 7:30 PM. The staff kindly guided us to our room and provided a thorough explanation of the hotel's facilities. This is a large hotel with three buildings—the new wing, the main wing, and the annex—spanning a central garden. All buildings are connected via the second floor, a common layout for Japanese onsen resort hotels. The hotel is known for hosting Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako during their vacation in Kochi, with photos of their visit displayed throughout the property. We reserved our dinner for 8 PM during check-in and relaxed in our room while taking some photos. The twin room is located in the new wing. The room, approximately 8 tatami mats in size, features a long layout with two mattresses. There’s also a sofa and stool, making it a comfortable space to relax. The bathroom, being part of the newly built wing, is compact but modern. At dinner time, we enjoyed a kaiseki meal served at the table. The dishes, made with ingredients from Kochi Prefecture, were presented in courses. They generously served katsuo tataki as well. The service was excellent. Each course was accompanied by detailed explanations about the ingredients, preparation methods, and how to enjoy the dish. Although the alcohol was pricey, we were in high spirits and ordered two glasses. After dinner, we took a stroll and then enjoyed the onsen. The outdoor bath offered a stunning view of cherry blossoms, which were past full bloom and beginning to fall. The moonlight, river, and illuminated night cherry blossoms created a picturesque scene. Returning to our room, we settled in for the night. Despite being a twin room, the tatami flooring gave it a cozy, Japanese-style atmosphere. Surrounded by trees, the room also exuded the charm of a traditional ryokan. After a restful sleep, we started the morning with a refreshing soak in the onsen. At a little past 7 AM, we headed to breakfast. The large dining hall, with over 100 tables, was already bustling with early risers. The breakfast buffet, held in a grand banquet hall-sized space, was reminiscent of our visit to Atami Itoen. The menu was extensive, and every dish was delicious. We also explored the hotel’s garden before checking out around 8 AM. Following the walking path, we encountered a riverside cherry blossom trail. True to its name, Kagamigawa (Mirror River), the water reflected the light beautifully. Thank you.