Tsutiu Onsen Yamaneya Ryokan

The room was nicely cleaned and we had a comfortable stay. Showa-era style tiles appear throughout the inn, and the bath runs hot, so it’s best for people who like that. Our dinner was meat-focused, with sukiyaki and pork shabu-shabu, both in just the right portions. The creative dishes were carefully made and tasty too. The inn sits partway up a gentle slope, and the stream below the window gave the place a lovely feel. Keep the little steps in the room in mind if you’re traveling with older guests.

The landlady greeted us when we arrived, during meals, and again when we left. That kind of welcome is rare now, and it made me happy. The inn is good value. The building is old, but well maintained, and the hot water was great. You can cool it by adding cold water.

The staff were kind and efficient, and I came away very satisfied. Dinner was sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, a luxurious meal we really enjoyed. Breakfast wasn’t a buffet. Each dish came in its own pretty little bowl and was carefully prepared. I don’t usually eat breakfast, but I had almost everything. The head chef’s tuna flakes, omelet and vinegared dishes were all seasoned just the way I like them. It would have been nice if the hotel were barrier-free, but the rest of the stay more than made up for that. Thank you very much.

During a business trip I stayed at Yamaneya Ryokan in Tsuchiyu Onsen. It had a lovely inn atmosphere, and the rate with two meals was very reasonable. The food was delicious, made with local vegetables, meat and sashimi. Maybe it’s the water, but the rice tasted amazing too. The hot spring was spacious, and the water smelled and felt wonderful on my skin. I could really relax there. Tsuchiyu Onsen is a compact town with gentle slopes, the sound of a babbling river, kind and welcoming people, giant kokeshi dolls and plenty of charm. I felt like I could wander around forever. I’d love to return and take my time.