Niko Ryokan

The breakfast was delicious, and the people here were the best part, so friendly and easy to talk with. It's a traditional Ryokan with a natural water Onsen, and one of my favorite places I've stayed in Japan.

The owner was the highlight for me: kind, thoughtful, and interested in helping guests. I came to Aizu-Wakamatsu in winter hoping to ride the Tadami line, and he gave me plenty of material to look through. He enjoys learning about other cultures and welcomes people from every country. We even talked about Dostoyevsky. He kindly drove me into the city and gave me some sweets, too. I'm happy I stayed and got to meet him. I slept well, and I loved the crane blanket ❤️❤️❤️ The hotel has a long history, with a nice traditional building and good value for money. The onsen (steam bath) wasn't crowded, and hotel guests could use it easily.

The owner, an ojisan (uncle), is welcoming and friendly. It's easy to chat with him about just about anything, and you quickly feel like part of the family. This ryokan has been here a long time, and the owner said the building itself is nearly 100 years old. The place may feel old or unsettling to some, and anyone after a modern, luxurious stay should look elsewhere. But if you're after an authentic, nostalgic Japanese "minshuku" and want the experience, it's worth trying for a night or two. It may be the best budget stay in Higashiyamaonsen. Of course, your experience may vary 😄

The gentleman running the place was helpful and attentive, but the building could use some renovation. It looks like it may not have changed much in 50 years. It's probably the cheapest place in Aizu Wakamatsu, so you get what you pay for. The location is convenient, close to the Aizu Wakamatsu city center and Tsuruga Castle. Payment is cash only, which feels a bit behind the times, though that's how things work in Japan. Smoking is allowed inside, a big drawback if you can't stand the smell. That said, the other ryokan in the area allow smoking too.