I checked in a bit late in the evening, and as I turned off the main road, my car crossed over a stone bridge suspended over a small ravine carved by the river below. That bridge really separates the Chikusenso from reality. As I parked, I was promptly greeted by a staff member with a flashlight and politely ushered into the reception area. Aesthetically, the whole hotel is a work of art. Rich with wood, stone, and tasteful art pieces to complement the different areas of the hotel, the whole place has a traditional feel, yet mixes in modernity. The best example of this is the shower area in the rooms. It's almost all stone, dark forest green with enough space to comfortably fit two. The staff is excellent and the facilities are spotless. They have outdoor, private baths with great views of the surrounding forest. A great bar, forest trails, spa, and free espresso machines in your room. You'll want for nothing in terms of modern convenience, yet leave with a feeling of traditional Japanese culture as well.