Sakuraya Sakuemon

We came to Gunma looking for a hot spring inn and chose this one because it was in the area where the hot spring mark was discovered. Our room had a bed on tatami and was comfortable. But other guests harassed us, and the whole experience was extremely unpleasant. People near our room said things like, “Are there really people who don’t talk to people like this?” “They’re so quiet,” and “They really hate being around other people.” Even if that’s what they thought, would anyone say that about complete strangers right by their room? They even laughed as they walked past us. Everyone spends a trip in their own way. Would anyone feel comfortable hearing those comments?

The price was reasonable for a weekday stay, about 5,000 yen after the booking site discount. The building seems old, but inside it’s lovely and feels luxurious. I appreciated the bathroom supplies, including separate shampoo and conditioner, plus hair tonic and aftershave. You don’t usually see those at business hotels, and it’s nice they haven’t skimped on them. There’s also a washer-dryer coin laundry, vending machines, and a microwave. The tatami room had both a bed and a Japanese-style futon, which didn’t seem like a great combination and felt a bit hard. As others have said, the front desk staff were somewhat unfriendly. I overheard them mutter, “Ugh, this is such a pain,” which was disappointing. They seemed to be working alone and busy, so there may be a reason. There are things they could improve, but the rate is fair and I think they try to provide good service.

I was traveling alone, so a business hotel in Takasaki or nearby would have suited me, but Ikaho felt a little far. I chose this place for a single room with breakfast, and even with the round-trip transport from Takasaki to Isobe, 10,000 yen seemed reasonable. Isobe Station was pitch-black when I arrived around 8 PM. My phone was dead, so I wandered off and got lost. I tried following the direction of an illuminated heart, but it didn’t help. I was like an insect drawn toward the light, just walking toward it. The room and building are quite old. There weren’t many guests, so it was quiet, and I mostly had the bath to myself. Breakfast was at the huge sister hotel, Isobe Garden. Since it was the weekend, the dining area was lively, which surprised me. Even though I was only there for breakfast, someone who seemed to be the manager or landlady greeted me, and I felt a little flustered. There were couples, families, mothers and daughters, and children, all seeming to enjoy themselves. It reminded me how lovely traveling can be. I’m enjoying this solo trip too, and I’m planning to go with my wife at the end of the month.

Hotel Sakuraya is quiet and peaceful, with a gentle, comfortable feel. It isn’t flashy, but the cleanliness and comfort made a good impression. The rooms are compact and tidy, the bedding is good, and the soft wallpaper and lighting make it easy to unwind after a long journey. The air conditioning works well, and on a quiet night I got pleasantly sleepy. The bathroom is small but clean, with comfortable water pressure and temperature controls. The shampoo and conditioner have a mild scent. After bathing, I could relax in my room and look at the cherry blossom-colored sky. Breakfast comes in Japanese or Western style. There’s a balanced choice of grilled fish, egg dishes, and other items. It’s not fancy, but the dishes seem carefully prepared, and there are small plates made with local ingredients. A comforting way to start the day. It’s close to main roads and train stations, easy to reach by car, and has free parking. It works well as a stop on a sightseeing or business trip. The reception staff were polite and warm, greeting me with a smile at check-in and readily suggesting local places to visit. Hotel Sakuraya is a calm place to relax and catch your breath while traveling. ★4.0 / 5.0. The name means cherry blossom, and there’s a warmth here that makes me want to visit again.