Yatsusankan

The staff made us feel welcome and at home, and the whole place was spotless from the entrance through to our room. The food was far better than we expected, and the preserved culture gave us the kind of experience we had hoped to find in Japan. We only stayed one night, but Yutorogi captured our trip so well. It’s the best accommodation I’ve stayed in. Thank you to everyone we met for such unforgettable hospitality.

The warm welcome from the staff made us feel right at home, and the local Hid beef was a real highlight. We booked a room with a private bath, which was just right for having some privacy. We loved our stay at Yatsukan and would recommend it to anyone after an authentic Japanese hospitality experience.

The outdoor onsen was a highlight I won't forget. I soaked in the enclosed garden while soft snow fell around me, with everything completely peaceful. Back in my room, my futon had been set out after dinner, and I warmed my feet under the cute Kotatsu. I left the TV off and spent the quiet hours meditating, writing, and looking out at the river and mountains as the snow came down. For each Kaiseki meal, an elegant woman in a kimono escorted me to my private dining room overlooking the manicured garden. One of the kind women serving my meals took a photo of me, then left the printed picture on my table at breakfast the next morning. I also enjoyed the downstairs community room, sitting beside its fireplace for a while. I came alone and felt cared for as if I were the only guest. Yatsusankan brought back the nostalgic feeling of traditional Japan I remembered from childhood, and gave me even more comfort, luxury, and tranquility than I expected. It's a lovely place for solo travelers, and I think families would enjoy it too. I hope to return with my sister, niece, and nephew. I'm glad I found this gem, and can see myself coming back for years. It gave me the nostalgia I was craving, plus so much more.

The private dining was a real treat, with delicious local and seasonal dishes. They adjusted our menu to make it pescatarian, which we appreciated. The onsen was wonderful too, and the service throughout was excellent. The ryokan feels like stepping into the Meiji period. Its antiques and furniture are beautiful, and you can sense how lovingly the family has cared for the place over generations. It was a trip highlight, and it felt good to support a multigenerational family business with roots in the Hida community.