Momijiya Honkan Takao Sansou

The service was unlike anything I've experienced. Staff hurried out with umbrellas to welcome us, and when we left early they got us onigiri and tea from 7/11. My sister and I loved the plum wine, and the food was great. After soaking, I felt completely relaxed. I recommend adding the open-air hot spring. We chose the star one. They also had goshuin paper, which was a nice touch. The shikibutons (beds) were set up while we were at dinner, and they even tucked warm rice packs by our feet. So cozy. The yukatas (robes) were lovely, and we were glad to have hanten (jackets) when the weather got a bit colder. I fell in love with this place and enjoyed a taste of countryside life away from the cities. The shuttle was super helpful too.

The complimentary pickup service was smoothly coordinated, so arriving and leaving were hassle-free. This is an outstanding onsen-style ryokan, with traditional hospitality and a superb breakfast. The kashikiri (private) onsen has lovely scenic views and makes a serene retreat for couples.

The peaceful, scenic surroundings were the one bright spot, but guests weren't allowed to explore much or do much there. We were relieved we'd booked only one night. For the price, this stay was deeply disappointing, and we wouldn't return. Communication before arrival was slow and unclear, and things were no better when we got there. Check-in felt rushed: the staff member almost walked away, and we were simply told to sit down and choose our dinner and checkout times on a sheet of paper. There was no welcome, explanation, or hospitality. The old building also felt run-down and in need of renovation, even though it was clean. The online onsen photos gave the wrong impression. The attractive baths shown were in another building, and we couldn't access them from where we stayed. Dinner was traditional Japanese style, but the food quality and taste were poor, and nobody explained the dishes. Staff spoke very little English and seemed to make little effort to help guests feel comfortable. When we later tried to order a drink, we were ignored at first, then told rudely that it wasn't possible. The whole experience felt cold and impersonal, as if guests were just expected to arrive, eat, and leave.

The mountain view and scenery were remarkable, and the outdoor walking path was lovely. We also saw fireflies for the first time and listened to the sounds of the mountainside and its creatures, which was the highlight of the trip. But the stay was extremely overpriced for what we got, and the strict schedule left us with little choice. We had hoped for two relaxing nights in the mountains and were completely disappointed. Staff were quick to help with shoes and bags and to make the beds, though the attention sometimes felt intrusive. We were told we could have dinner or breakfast in our room, but that wasn't possible when we arrived. We hadn't realized the onsen cost extra, and the soaking tub wasn't clean. Coffee wasn't allowed in the rooms, and there was no other food to buy. Once a day we got hot tea and a small treat, and drinks other than tea were charged separately. We bought a ginger ale in a plastic bottle. Dinner was elaborate, but the textures and flavors were very challenging. We tried to be respectful, but we were grossed out and didn't eat much meat for the rest of our trip. Dessert was only a small cube of watermelon. This place needs to rethink the guest experience. It is not a four-star hotel.