Nakadanaso

Located in the historic town of Komoro is an old ryokan rich in history. Adjacent is the historic remains of the Komoro castle (now a nice park with many sakura trees snd a small zoo) which apparently is the only castle in Japan built below the town, taking advantage of the protective cliff surrounding it. Nakadanaso is also on the hillside on the lower end of town and just a few hundred meters from the famous Chikuma River. We stayed on the second floor of the wood structure old wing. While old it was tidy and you can enjoy old Japan. The ryokan's onsen is in a separate building and you'll need to walk up the covered stairs, around 50 steps or so, to get there. Nice indoor and outdoor baths. The foyer dressing area is rather unusual tatami, adding a different and nostalgic touch. The highlight was dinner served in a separate building connected by foot path just 50 feet away. Apparently it was once an old farm house transferred to the present location. The vaulted ceiling looked to be over 30ft high with large beams you would seldom see. The food was amazing! The chef comes from Kyoto and concocts unusual combinations of fksvors and ingredients, yet served traditional kaiseki style using porcelain of various artistic shapes and styles, complementing each dish. His broths were especially outstanding. The 5the generation owner Tomioka-san is a sommelier (loves champagne) and his wife the Okami (hotelier) are also a family of wine grape growers. His son owns/runs a winery nearby called Gio Hills, atop a hill with one of the best panoramic views of Mt Asama and surrounding mountains. The Vietnamese food served at the winery is a recommend. His pinot noirs are outstanding. Chardonnay grown by the family are vielles vignes. His ambition is to make the finest sparking using 100% pinot munier. Komoro is a charming and enchanting town, and a well kept secret.