Ideal for a one night stay….
The private onsen was the true highlight….The daily historic sweets set on the table in the room was a delicious welcome.
The kaiseki meals the first time we ate them were absolutely wonderful….However….it was hard to eat them twice…Even though they were beautifully prepared-one can tire from fish, mollusks, fish flavored tofu, raw eggs and seaweed, morning and night…They should switch up the meals daily…Also- drinks should be brought to the meal rather than having to ask for water/tea…The staff appeared new and did not reflect the prior reviews of an elderly couple…They may need additional training….a welcome drink (water/tea) on arrival and asking about if transportation was needed to the station would have been wonderful! (We had heavy backpacks and are in our early 50’s-the mile walk (not flat) was an exercise in tolerance.
Overall, we truly deem it to be one of the most authentic experiences we witnessed in Japan. And for one night the meals, sleeping on tatami mats, and private onsen would be 5 stars….For two nights-4 stars….the charm wears thin…however, the price is very fair for what you get-and may not be obtainable in the other surrounding ryokans…
I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here to have the authentic Japanese experience you may be seeking…as well as having the private outdoor onsen…