Sozankyo

Uchinomaki-onsen is a lovely little town, with plenty of interesting bars and restaurants that stay open late. I skipped dinner at the ryokan to eat there and felt good about that choice. Getting here takes planning, though, since it’s not especially near a train station or highway bus stop. Arrange a transfer. The onsen was lovely, and you can reserve a private bath for free. There’s also an evening shochu bar with an impressive selection and a small gift shop. The ryokan has the very kind hospitality and comfort I’ve found at other traditional places, though it feels a little worn and is short on some modern conveniences. In the traditional-style room I chose, there wasn’t a single spare outlet for charging my phone. That one was probably on me.

The staff and service were so helpful, and they really did their best to make the stay easy. That’s why I gave it four stars instead of three. The public hot baths were good, but the private ones, which cost extra, disappointed us. The wood was rotten in places and they weren’t well maintained. I was glad we could use the baths, but the private ones could have been much better, like the public ones. Our room was spacious and very clean, with a great shower and spotless toilet, but the beds weren’t comfortable. The tatami option might be better than the Western beds. The sky bar has a fantastic view over the village. Food was good, although there were a lot of oysters and we’re not fans. For the price, I expected more luxury and feel you could find something better. I’d still recommend it, though I’d probably try somewhere else next time.

The owner is especially lovely, and everyone made us feel so welcome with their genuine warmth. We had unforgettable kaiseki meals and loved the peaceful onsen. Staying at Sozankyo Ryokan was pure bliss, and I can’t wait to come back.

Mr. Ninomiya Ninomiya-san took such good care of us and was really friendly. All the staff were warm and welcoming. Dinner was delicious, and the Akagyu course felt well worth it. Our room was beautiful, roomy, and had great amenities. Everything was immaculate, and the beds were so comfortable we slept like babies. Best of all was the inviting in-room onsen with a lovely garden view. We enjoyed it in daylight and at night. We had such a relaxing stay and hope we can return one day.