Lonely Planet Wellness Escapes に別邸音信が掲載されております。
Tucked into the mountains of this hot spring-rich country, the sleek Bettei Otozure ryokan is worth the detour from Japan’s cultural capitals. The standout here is the ryokan’s grand onsen, a commanding set of natural baths fed by the mineral-laden thermal waters that surround this traditional (in sensibility) yet modern (in aesthetic) inn. Onsen are a requisite element in Japanese self-care, similar in concept and experience to public baths in other cultures — like Finnish saunas, they are egalitarian in spirit, intended as a communal practice. True believers will attest that the alkaline spring water has healing properties, serving as a balm to joint and muscle pain.
The experience at this family-owned inn is enhanced by the beauty of the surrounding woodlands — and by the gracious design of the cedar-wood onsen itself, which offers areas for quiet reflection, conversation, and whirlpools. The open-air space in the grand onsen, open until 12:30 A.M., allows for relaxation under the stars — as do the private whirlpools found on the balconies of some private rooms. A separate spa complex offers massages and body treatments.
This ryokan’s rural setting might suggest a rough-hewn approach to its on-site dining — and yet the inn’s traditional kaiseki menu offers a masterful take on this rigorous Japanese dining concept. Expect local additions such as urchin (uni) or even fugu (puffer fish), as well as a selection of local sakes.
ロンリープラネットは、英語による旅行ガイドブックでは世界一のシェアを誇る旅行本で、ライターが実際に現地へ赴き体験したことが記事にされており、その正確でリアルな情報によって世界中の旅行者から信用を置かれているガイドブックです。
このたび創刊された『Wellness Escapes』では、現代の複雑な生活から一時離れ、より充実した幸福な人生を送るための世界中のディスティネーション(ヨガや温泉・スパ、大自然でのアクティビティ等)やリトリート(隠れ家的ホテル、旅館)が紹介されています。
別邸音信は「indulged」の章に掲載されており、長門湯本温泉のお湯の持つ癒しの効果と山海の幸にあふれた会席料理のお食事についてご紹介いただいております。