Takyo Abeke is a very special place, but it is not for everyone. Tomi Matsuba and her husband purchased the former Samurai house (more than 225 years old) with the goal of providing respite that shows appreciation for the imperfect, the ordinary, and nature. While there are a few modern conveniences (indoor toilets), the house retains its labyrinth layout. Each room is unique. I stayed in an upstairs room that shared a downstairs open seating area (library, tea room, writing room combination) with another room that was downstairs.
My room was huge, with two twin beds, a futon couch, a table, dresser, and closet. The toilet facilities were shared and located downstairs. There were three toilets for five guest rooms, and two separate sink areas, one of which had two sinks. The onsen, shower, changing area was separate. I made informal arrangements with other guests as to when my partner and I would use the onsen (capacity 3 people but most comfortable for 2).
Breakfast and dinner were served family style at a dining table that was in the large kitchen. Food was fabulous. The tea created especially for Tomi-san was some of the best I've ever had. I have also never seen a hotel staff who had such joy in their work. It was truly selfless hospitality. I was amazed to learn that one of our culinary staff grew the wheat which he used to bake bread.
Tomi-san, our hostess, stopped by on a few occasions, something that I didn't expect from such a busy and well-esteemed woman. She seemed to get great pleasure from seeing that her guests were happy.
I highly recommend Tokyo Abeke if you want to feel true hospitality and feel as if you've been sent back in time. If, however, you have any problems with stairs and need the toilet in the middle of the night you might not want to stay here. The building was built at a different time. The staircase from my room has three overhangs for which I had to duck to avoid hitting my head. There is another room with stairs that are an incline closer to a ladder. I found the stairs a small inconvenience for the chance to stay in a special place with such joyful hosts.
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滞在時期: 2023年10月
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客室選びのポイント:Don't be put off by the fact the accommodations are not en suite. If, however, you have mobility...
I've stayed at Abeke House three times now and plan to return again next month! It's just THAT compelling a place. Abeke House lives in an enchanted Shangri-la kind of Japanese Village. It's not stuck in the 18th century but different from any other place I've experienced in my lifetime. You get the charm, attention to details and simple beauty of simpler times, while you get lots of comfort .and great hospitality. It's a magical environment.
Tomi-san (the proprietor) and brains behind the restoration of Omori-cho (the village)and Abeke House, is the down to earth powerhouse who is the Japanese equivalent of Martha Stewart. Every detail of Abeke House, both indoors and out is delectable. The bathing experience is unforgettable. As is the exquisite food, sourced locally and served communally. Not to be missed.Stay at least two nights!!