Kunimotoya

I stayed here two years ago. The room was clean and near the private bath, so I could take it easy there. The hot spring water was drinkable, and they even filled a plastic bottle for me when I left. The large public bath felt a little cramped when locals came in for day use. I chose the casual plan, and the dinner and breakfast were more like set meals. I wouldn't call them especially tasty. Some other guests seemed to be staying long-term while working at a nearby construction site, and they served themselves rice from the dining room's cooker. The pillow had a faint smell, which was disappointing, though I guess smells from people's hair are hard to get out. It's difficult to reach without a car, so I took a taxi from the nearest station. It cost a few thousand yen each way.

The bathroom has three washing stations, but the showers are extremely weak. They seem very focused on saving water, so it may be better to wash your hair at home first. Shampoo, conditioner, and body soap are supplied. The bath temperature varies, sometimes hot and sometimes lukewarm. In the changing room there are six lockers with built-in locks, so you don't need 100 yen coins, plus two hair dryers, cotton swabs, tissue boxes, and a trash bin. There are no combs. There's usually a counter, and after you ring the bell an employee comes over a few minutes later. Some people are unfriendly, but I suppose that's just how it is everywhere. When I came back after a long time, I saw a woman bathing with a large tattoo across her back and shoulders. A small, pointed tattoo would have been one thing, but it made me wonder, "So this place allows people with tattoos..."

The water felt a little slippery, with a pH of 8.8, and the temperature was just right. The day-trip bath had only three washing stations and wasn't very roomy, though shampoo, conditioner, and body soap were provided. Entry was 850 yen per person. March 2026. I'd been away for several years, but the hot spring has been renovated and now has a stylish interior. They also sell bread, apple pie, and croissants, apparently baked for people to enjoy after bathing. I'd like to return when it's quieter and take my time.

The hot spring water was gentle and left me feeling really warm. The food was wonderful, and the staff were very kind. For this price range, I couldn't believe how clean and stylish the inside of the building was.