Yuraku Hotel

The onsen was nice, and the hotel and room were a bit old but okay. The staff were genuinely friendly, especially the older man at the cafe/shop. I appreciated his hospitality. At checkout, it was pouring, so I planned to wait in the lobby until the rain eased. I was quietly writing in my journal and reading when an older man who looked like a manager or supervisor came over. He looked confused, as if wondering what I was still doing there, and asked whether I was staying another night. When I said no, he told me to get out. I've stayed in 1000+ hotels in Japan, and this was the first time I'd been kicked out. He watched me closely until I left the property, which made me extremely uncomfortable. That felt very rude, and not hospitable at all.

There's plenty to do here beyond the onsen: a table tennis room, games room, library, and Japanese garden. The hotel has three different baths that alternate between men and women through the night. It's a beautiful onsen hotel, and there's free parking onsite.

The building is in good shape, and everything was clean and well maintained. The spring was one of the hottest in the city so far. Even going into the hot bath alone was a really good experience, and I might stay here for a few days next time.

A beautiful place, though be careful if traditional food isn't your thing!