I just got back from an amazing trip where I stayed at a beautiful Japanese inn, a ryokan, and the food was seriously the highlight. Ryokan Washoku is a whole experience!

The meal, often a multi-course dinner called kaiseki, felt less like food and more like art on a plate. Everything was so delicate and beautifully arranged—it’s all about eating with your eyes first. I loved seeing the little seasonal touches, like a tiny maple leaf garnish, that made me appreciate the time of year.

The best part about this kind of dining is the perfect balance. Unlike a heavy dinner, every dish—from the fresh local sashimi to the light, simmered vegetables—was clean, seasonal, and perfectly portioned. It makes you realize how healthy traditional Japanese food is. It’s nourishing, not sluggish.

Sitting there, looking out at the garden while enjoying food prepared with so much care, felt like a total reset for my body and mind. It was the true definition of "Gourmet Cuisine for Wellness.