Shiotsubo Onsen Hotel

The staff are so kind and welcoming. The service feels more like being looked after at your grandparents' house than staying at a high-end hotel, and I appreciated how they even made sure the kettle had fresh water and the room was warmed before I arrived. The building is older, but it's carefully maintained and has a lot of history. The atmosphere is cosy and gives you a traditional, down-to-earth Japanese hotel stay. It's not fancy, but it has what you need. The daily set meals at breakfast and dinner were varied and delicious. The hot spring area was clean and pleasant, with roomy showers and changing rooms. Both the indoor and outdoor baths were kept at a comfortable temperature for a long soak. There's also a small private hot spring for up to four people, with shower kits provided. I really appreciate this place and hope more people give it a try. The staff are wonderful.