Myouken Onsen Rakuensou

I went in three times because the relaxing rooms and 100% natural hot spring bath were that good. The night sky was beautiful up in the mountains, and Aimo-chan, the mascot cat, was so friendly and warm. The large public bath is cold, but if you go when no one else is there, you can enjoy the huge bath on your own and use the shower. The washing machine couldn’t be used because of bugs and leaves. They do provide rides to and from the airport and station, and the kitchen is well equipped. The landlady was warm and kind. It was great, and I’ll go again!

The instant water heater brought back a nostalgic feeling. I didn’t try the bath in my room, though I’d like to use the large public bath on my next visit. Even arriving late for check-in was no problem, they were very accommodating. My room was in a separate building with the atmosphere of a Showa-era hot spring resort.

There’s a kitchen and a Japanese-style room, so you can make your own meals, and plenty of supermarkets nearby for picking up groceries. The detached room has its own hot spring, and the inn is quiet and relaxing, like being back at my grandmother’s countryside home. I’ve stayed twice already and have another visit booked for this weekend.

I came for golf and to visit the Myoken and Hinatayama hot springs, and it was fantastic. So retro, in the best way. Part of me almost wants to keep this place to myself 😂 I never met the owner, so I left the bathing fee in the dish beside the phone at the entrance. I’ll definitely be back!