Ryokan Asadaya

There are many reasons to go to Kanazawa, for us it was the Kenroku-en Gardens. And there are many hotels to choose from, but the Ryokan Asadaya seemed special—and it was. What made it special? Asadaya is located in walking distance of the Kanazawa Castle Park and the Kenroku-en Gardens as well as other sights. It’s right across from the fabulous and bustling Omi-cho Market, but when one enters the beautiful old building one is immediately transported into an atmosphere that combines warmth and tranquility. The rooms, baths, and appointments are traditional, beautiful, comfortable, and spacious. Meals at Asadaya are memorable in every way. We loved the focus on regional mushrooms, vegetables, fish, and duck prepared with deep culinary understanding and artistry. The presentation of the dishes made one want to know more about the local craftspeople and their wares and traditions. The skilled people at Ryokan Asadaya pull it all together. The building and staff work together to create a lovely realm that feels timeless and relaxing. And one gets to enjoy one the top three gardens in Japan.

Looking out the windows of Asadaya, you’d never suspect you are in a large city. From the second you are greeted, time just seems to slow down. My wife and I are two very loud people, personality-wise, but the politeness and reverence of the staff is infectious - you can’t help but slow down as well. From the incredible culinary offerings, to the on-site onsen (including a private suite if you want to reserve it with your partner), to the accommodations themselves, I can’t praise this place enough. Put it on your list.

金沢の老舗旅館で一二を争う。イベントで昼食をご馳走になった。猛暑の中、女将と板長、スタッフの皆様の心配りが嬉しい。涼しげな料理、器、花と、どれをとっても心遣いに感激。これが「おもてなし」ということかと初めて気づかされた。料理はひとつひとつの食材を生かす味付けで、加賀の料理も取り入れてある。地酒によく合う。金沢に旅行にくる年配の方にはおすすめの宿である。食事のみの利用もできるので慶事があれば使いたくなる。

Go to Asadaya to learn about the art and skill of hospitality. Be amazed at the very personalized, precisely focused and kind attention. Enjoy the central location in this wonderful city. But our high expectations for the food were not quite realized (maybe the Michelin star caliber days are in the past?) and the unreasonably high prices make it poor value compared to other desirable Ryokans we enjoyed in Japan.