Kofuyuden Beniya
One Michelin Key

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Expert Review: Kofuyuden Beniya
Kofuyuden Beniya in Awara, Japan, a distinguished Michelin Key One-Keys property, offers guests an exceptional ryokan experience characterized by its harmonious blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comforts.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
Kofuyuden Beniya consistently receives high praise from guests, with an impressive guest review score of 4.82 out of 5.00 on IKYU.com. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests describing their stay as a "perfect trip" and expressing a strong desire to return, even aiming to make it their "regular accommodation". It is recognized by the Michelin Guide as a "very special stay".
2. Key Highlights
Guests particularly appreciate the ryokan's thoughtful design, which seamlessly integrates with nature, allowing for an appreciation of light and breeze. A significant highlight is that all 17 guest rooms feature private semi-open-air baths with 100% pure hot spring water directly from the source. The in-room dining for both breakfast and dinner, and the impeccable, heartfelt hospitality of the staff, including the proprietress, also stand out as key attractions.
3. Room Quality
The ryokan comprises 17 uniquely designed guest rooms, each crafted in the traditional sukiya-zukuri style with a modern sensibility. Rooms are spacious, with examples ranging from 637 sq ft to 928 sq ft for Japanese-style rooms. They are designed to allow natural light and gentle breezes to flow through, creating a refined and tranquil atmosphere. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, tatami floors, yukata, free toiletries, and private bathrooms with bidets and garden views. A unique design element connects two guest rooms by a tsuboniwa (small inner garden), opening views to gardens in two directions and providing natural lighting on three sides, including in bathrooms.
4. Dining Experience
Kofuyuden Beniya offers a high-end culinary journey with traditional kaiseki dinner and breakfast served in the comfort of your guest room. The cuisine focuses on seasonal flavors, utilizing fresh local vegetables and the blessings of the mountains and sea. During the winter months (November to March), the local snow crab, particularly Echizen crab, features prominently in various preparations, with grilled crab being a guest favorite. The ryokan also boasts certified sake sommeliers among its proprietress and attendants, who can offer perfect pairings of Fukui's sake with the exquisite dishes. A breakfast buffet with local specialties is also available.
5. Service & Staff
The hospitality at Kofuyuden Beniya is consistently praised as exceptional. Guests highlight the "thoughtful hospitality of the staff including the hostess" and their "warm smiles". Service is described as "impeccable" and "refined," akin to that of a long-established ryokan. This dedication to guest satisfaction is a significant factor in the high praise and desire for repeat visits.
6. Location & Accessibility
Located in Awara Onsen, Fukui Prefecture, the ryokan is set in a beautiful countryside environment where guests can immerse themselves in nature. It is conveniently situated a short walk from the Fujino Genkuro Memorial Museum and offers a free shuttle service from Awara Onsen Station. For travelers arriving by air, Komatsu Airport is approximately 22 miles away. Nearby attractions also include Shibamasa World.
7. Value & Pricing
As a Michelin Key One-Keys property, Kofuyuden Beniya is considered a luxury accommodation, reflecting its high-end amenities, personalized service, and exquisite dining. While specific price ranges are not provided, the "high-end kaiseki meal" and the general luxury offering suggest it is a premium experience. Guests who appreciate the unique architectural design, private onsen baths, in-room dining, and exceptional service generally find the experience well worth the cost.
8. Common Complaints
While the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, one minor criticism noted an impression of the property's website as "boastful," which some found off-putting. Additionally, the Michelin Guide notes that there are "No verified stays yet" for their guest score, indicating that while it's a Michelin Key property, their internal review system is still accumulating feedback. However, these points appear to be minor in the context of the overall highly favorable guest feedback.
Sources
About One Michelin Key
One Michelin Key is awarded to hotels that offer a very special stay. These properties are characterized by their unique personality, high quality, and ability to create memorable experiences for guests.

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