From one travel bug to another, I'd like to share my experience on a seven day vacation l recently took in Japan before starting a new job. I would like to add a disclaimer that I am not someone who grew up going to fancy hotels and lived a life of luxury. As a woman who studied hard throughout high school and college to earn a decent salary, I've come to value spending hard earned money on seeking new experiences in far away places. Today I will share one of the most simple yet luxurious hotel properties at which I've stayed. The Hoshinoya Kyoto is located in Oku-Arashiyama along a peaceful river surrounded by trees and small mountains and isolated from the city of Kyoto. The property has the highest rank (5 Red Pavilion) given by the Michelin guide in Kyoto and Osaka.

From Kyoto, I took a taxi and arrived at a wooden structure by the river where I was escorted to a unique check-in experience involving a delectable ginger tea and hot towels before I was taken on the famous boat ride along the beautifully quiet river. One of the hotel staff saw me off and bowed down (for a long time!) as I departed on the wooden boat. The standard of service in Japanese culture is not something most people are used to, and can sometimes feel excessive because I am not used to being treated like royalty (nor do I expect it). Upon arriving at the resort, I was immediately taken aback by the gorgeous scenery all around me. I immediately felt at peace (which is what I came for!).

I was taken to my room, which was spacious and warm with heated floors and had a Hinoki style wooden hot bath.

I also had a view through a large window overlooking the river and a railroad and all the surrounding nature.

For dinner, I had the Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner.

In the morning, I was served a delicious hot pot--this was one of the best meals in my entire 7 day trip.

Literally every ingredient tasted fresh, and every seasoning was meticulously chosen so the flavors came together perfectly. It was definitely expensive, but truly amazing and worth it at least once in my life. The Hoshinoya brand takes hospitality to the next level, and the peace I felt here was unparalleled by any other place I've stayed. I stayed in February, a much cooler time of the year, but I hope to come back in the spring or fall when the scenery is even more stunning and picturesque. Be sure to look for photos of what this place looks like in the peak seasons.

Thanks for reading my first post, and I look forward to many more.

Bye guys!