Okaeri Calistoga: A Japanese-Inspired Escape.

A Japanese Inspired Escape in Napa Valley.

If I told you that you could get a taste of Japan just 90 minutes from the Bay Area, you’d probably think I was exaggerating. But trust me, one step through the doors of Okaeri in Calistoga, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Japan.

And I can say that only as confidently as someone who hasn’t been to Japan yet can! Hey, I’m just telling you like it is. 

They went all in on the Japanese vibes. From the perfectly manicured gardens and Japanese maple trees that greet you at the entrance to the koi pond at the heart of the property and each of the seven unique rooms, it’s hard not to feel like you're in another part of the world.

The best part is that Okaeri is only 90 minutes away from the Bay Area in Napa Valley.

That means you can sip matcha in the morning, feed koi fish in the afternoon, and then spend the evening wine tasting at world-famous vineyards.

So, let’s get into the details!

A Boutique Hotel in Calistoga.

Before you even step inside, Okaeri sets the tone with its entrance. Walking past the gorgeous and well-manicured garden, complete with Japanese maple trees and stone pathways, feels like you’ve stumbled into a pocket of Kyoto tucked away in wine country.

It’s quiet, serene, and purposeful, the setting that instantly signals you’re about to have an experience, not just a place to sleep.

I notice details (probably too much sometimes), and I couldn’t help but linger outside before checking in. The sound of rustling leaves, the way the garden framed the inn itself, and the little things like this tell you the owners poured real heart into this incredible space.

The Koi Pond: A Tranquil Centerpiece in Napa Valley.

Every great property has a centerpiece. At Okaeri, it’s the koi pond.

The pond isn’t just an aesthetic flourish; it’s alive, vibrant, and strangely meditative.

Watching the koi glide beneath the water has a way of pulling you out of your head and back into the moment. 

It’s a ritual here. Every morning and evening, we gravitated to a seat near the water.

We even made sure to sit within viewing distance during breakfast and tea because… well, how could you not? 

If you ask nicely, they might even let you feed the fish! Who all have individual names!

Kim-Carp-Dashian might just be the best name for a fish I’ve ever heard. 

Japanese-Inspired Breakfast and Tea in Calistoga

Mornings at Okaeri begin with a prix fixe breakfast and tea service included in your stay.

It’s not your typical hotel breakfast buffet. Instead, think beautifully plated dishes that lean on seasonality and freshness, paired with fragrant teas that ease you into the day.

This was one of the highlights for me, not just the food (though that was excellent), but the whole experience. By the time we set off to explore Calistoga or Napa’s vineyards, I already felt grounded.

Evening Social Hours, Done The Napa Valley Way.

From late afternoon to early evening, Okaeri offers a complimentary evening social hour. Guests gather for wine and light bites, and it’s the perfect way to close out the day.

It struck the right balance: casual enough to feel laid-back and thoughtful enough to make you feel cared for. You’re not just handed a glass of wine; you’re invited to be part of the rhythm of the place.

After a day of wine tasting or spa-hopping in Calistoga, it’s exactly what you want: a relaxing moment before retreating to the quiet of your room.

I loved when their server asked if we would be back in time for social hour. After I informed them we likely wouldn’t make it one night, they kindly offered to leave some of the evening appetizers in our room for us. 10/10 service!

Seven Unique Japanese-Inspired Rooms at Okaeri.

One of the things I love most about Okaeri is its size. With only seven rooms, it feels secluded, personal, and exclusive in the best way. 

Each room has its own personality, decorated with a mix of Japanese-inspired design elements and cozy touches that make you feel at home. Not that your home is decked out to be Japanese, but you know what I mean. 

This isn’t a cookie-cutter hotel where every room looks the same. The smaller scale also means you’re not fighting for space at breakfast or waiting in line at check-in. It’s intimate and intentional.

I find myself seeking experiences like this more and more. I love a big resort with lots to do, and I now equally love a small boutique inn with a slower pace. 

Walkable to Downtown Calistoga.

Another huge perk: Okaeri’s location.

• Walkable to downtown Calistoga: In just five minutes, you can be in town for coffee, shopping, or a soak in the area’s famous hot springs. Calistoga is charming, approachable, and not nearly as crowded as other Napa Valley towns.
  
  
• Minutes from iconic wineries: Chateau Montelena (famous for putting Napa on the map in the 1976 Judgment of Paris), Castello di Amorosa (yes, the actual castle winery), and Sterling Vineyards (with its aerial tram) are all just a few minutes away.
  
  

That means you can have a leisurely breakfast at Okaeri, pop over for a wine tasting, and be back in time for the evening social hour. No stress required.

Why Stay at Okaeri in Napa Valley?

Here’s why I think Okaeri deserves a spot on your California travel list:

• I promise you’ll love hanging out by the koi pond.
  
• Breakfast and tea in the morning, wine and bites at night are actually really good.
  
• Only seven rooms, which means more privacy and less noise.
  
• Walkability to downtown Calistoga is always a plus.
  
• Proximity to world-class wineries makes it the perfect home base.
  
• Last but not least, how often do you get to feel like you’re in Japan and Napa at the same time?
  

Insider Tips for Staying at Okaeri.

• Book early. With just seven rooms, Okaeri fills up fast, especially on weekends.
  
• Pack light layers. Calistoga mornings can be cool, even in summer, but afternoons get warm.
  
• Plan some downtime. As tempting as it is to overschedule wine tastings, make sure you leave yourself some downtime.

Use the discount. You can get 10% off your booking with my code: DSCVR10 when you book directly on their website. 

Things to Do in Calistoga During Your Stay.

Since you’ll already be here, carve out some time to explore Calistoga itself. A few of my favorite stops:

• Calistoga Hot Springs – You have to get in a hot spring while in Calistoga. They’re Calistoga's claim to fame! Along with the iconic wineries I mentioned earlier, of course. And you should be able to get a day pass to Dr Wilkonson’s on Resort Pass. 
  
• Old Faithful Geyser of California – Yes, we have one of those, too!
  
• Downtown shops and cafés – Small boutiques, wine tasting rooms, and local eats. Go to Picayune! It’s super cute, welcoming, and you’ll love it.
  
• Hiking trails – Bothe State Park and Bale Grist Mill are worth exploring. 
• Biking - Rent a bike from downtown Calistoga (or bring your own) and ride the Napa Valley Vine South to St. Helena, Yountville, or further!

Pairing a stay at Okaeri with these experiences makes for the ultimate wine-country-meets-wellness getaway.

Final Thoughts on Okaeri in Calistoga

If you couldn’t tell, I loved Okaeri and Calistoga, but this is one of those places that’s better experienced than explained. 

It’s where Napa Valley’s wine country meets Japanese-inspired tranquility, and it works beautifully!

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a solo reset, or a unique basecamp for exploring Napa, Okaeri delivers.

Don’t forget to use my code DSCVR10 when booking on their website for 10% off your stay. 

Enjoy!

Jordan

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