Hinokitei Bokusui

I loved how quiet it was, with so few guest rooms, and I could really take my time relaxing. Meals came in private rooms, and everything I tried was delicious, especially the white maitake mushroom tempura. I was traveling alone. There are three private hot spring baths you can use freely. The water feels hot at first, but once you're in, the temperature is just right. It's a rich, free-flowing spring, with mineral deposits floating in the water. I'd be happy to stay here again.

It's only a 1-2 minute walk from the bus terminal, which made arrival easy. I could leave my luggage and go explore Kusatsu on foot without carrying it around. The food was excellent, both in taste and portion size. I stayed on the Joshu beef plan, and the photo from my visit shows the meal with rice, soup, and pudding for dessert. The high-grade sirloin came in 7-8 slices, so it was very filling. There was grilled rainbow trout and char sashimi too, a nice spread for anyone who likes river fish. This is a charming, old-fashioned ryokan with a nostalgic feel, the sort of place that makes you think, this is what a hot spring inn should be. There are three private baths and no large public one. Since the inn isn't big and the spring water is quite hot, so long soaks aren't ideal, one bath is usually free. With the recent interest in Showa-era retro style, I think it's worth a visit for younger people who enjoy that as entertainment, as well as middle-aged and older guests looking for nostalgia.

Dinner was delicious and filling, with Gunma Prefecture's Mochi Pork, grilled salted river fish, maitake mushroom tempura, and sashimi. Every dish felt like a highlight. The morning bath was wonderful too, and I felt comfortable here from the start of my stay to the end. The inn was quiet, with hardly any other guests around. The staff's warm hospitality was reassuring, and with no small children staying, it felt like a good place for adults to unwind. The toilet and sink were shared, but close to my room, so that wasn't inconvenient. The tatami corridors gave the place a nostalgic, cozy feeling, like being at grandma's house. 🍵 There are three kinds of private hot spring baths, and I could use them without worrying about anyone seeing me. With so few guests, I never had to wait. I went before dinner and again before bed, and got to try all three. ♨️ Thank you very much.

The private baths let me relax without worrying about the time. Occasionally all three were occupied, but usually there was one free. I'm really glad I picked this inn. The meals were generous enough for us younger guests, and every dish tasted great. The pudding was my favorite. ♡