Yuya Onsen Rifure Park Kinta no Sato

I came for a day visit to use the baths. There aren't many kinds of baths, but it was quiet when I went, so I could take my time. The free lounge is spacious and relaxing. Staff service was just ordinary, unlike what some reviews suggested. The water smelled strongly of chlorine, especially after I got out.

The food was pretty average, and breakfast didn't have anything that stood out. You may be better off heading into town for dinner. The Japanese-style rooms are roomy, though they don't have an indoor bath. The open-air hot spring is reasonably priced, but having it close at 11 PM is inconvenient. If it stayed open until midnight, I'd give the hotel five stars.

The herb sauna was wonderful, it really felt like being in a forest. I arrived late, but the night watchman was kind and helpful. After the dark drive through the mountains, the brightly lit building was a relief to see. The place is old, but it was clean and pleasant, and the buckets weren't dirty like some other reviews said. I chose it because hotel prices near Hiroshima Station had shot up for the Carp opening game, and I also had plans in Shimane. I'd stay here again if I get the chance.

I was told the open-air bath wouldn't be available in the morning, which was a shame since a morning soak there feels so good. I skipped it. The room was lovely, with shoji screens designed to let you see the snow, and everything was spotlessly clean. The front desk staff were very helpful. Dinner was good too, with freshly fried tempura and quick service. I was delighted to find sashimi at breakfast, and they offered more rice, asking how much I wanted.