Bousui

The private bath was the best part, and the lounge was nice too, with free drinks at certain times and lovely coast views. The food was plentiful and Kaiseki style, though mixed. Some ingredients, including uni, shockingly didn’t seem fresh, and a few dishes tasted off. The staff were hit or miss: some were friendly but not very knowledgeable, while others gave me an odd feeling. My Level 2 room faced the parking lot, but I could still see the sea from bed. I assume rooms on Level 4 or higher offer more privacy. Most visitors seemed to speak Chinese, with some Japanese guests as well. I’d had this hotel bookmarked for a while and was looking forward to the moonlit view. Instead, the power went out at 11:30 p.m. on a rainy day, though the weather wasn’t extreme. They only announced at midnight that it wouldn’t be back soon. Backup power came on, but the aircon stopped and a bright emergency light stayed on all night, so sleeping was impossible. The power returned around 3 a.m. They didn’t really take responsibility, just gave a small “gift” as an apology. Even without that sleepless night, the high price doesn’t feel worth it. If you find a good deal and it’s already on your way, maybe. I wouldn’t make a special trip, since I’ve stayed in much nicer places in the same price range. Tip: don’t come on a rainy day.

I recently stayed at Bousui and was disappointed by the breakfast service, and things felt even worse after I raised my concern. My breakfast reservation was confirmed for 8:00 a.m., but I waited while several Japanese guests who arrived after me were seated right away. I was the only solo, non-Japanese guest, so it was hard not to feel I was being treated differently. No one explained the delay or apologized. I was finally seated around 8:10. At a premium-priced ryokan that promotes omotenashi (Japanese hospitality), that felt disrespectful. I hope management reviews the process so Japanese and foreign guests, whether alone or not, all receive the same respect and attention.

We arrived very late for check-in after heavy snow during our Japan trip, completely exhausted. This place helped us get our energy back. The staff were polite and helpful. Not everyone spoke English, but we managed with Google Translator. A really relaxing stay, and I’ll come back on my next trip.

The staff were friendly throughout our stay, though their English wasn’t the strongest, so a translation app made things easier. My wife and I came during our Japan trip, and the place didn’t disappoint. The rooms have a vintage Japanese style and look out over the ocean. Be sure to choose breakfast and dinner when booking. The food was amazing, with lots of fresh ingredients, and we could enjoy it from the comfort of our bed. There are interesting attractions and restaurants nearby, but getting around isn’t as convenient as in the big cities, so rent or book a car. We’d definitely come back.