Ryotei Yamanoi

The inn has spacious Japanese-style rooms and thermal baths, and breakfast was plentiful and delicious. Staff didn't speak English, so it would be better to come with a Japanese friend. I was there during a hurricane, and they kindly shared information and even drove me to the nearest station. A soak, milk, and futon, and I slept like an angel.

The hot spring here is good, and dinner was really tasty. The inn sits at the start of the shopping street, so it's easy to walk along the whole stretch and return. There aren't many shops, but there are lots of foot hot springs.

The spa was good. Dinner was just normal.

We were right in the middle of Tamatsukuri Onsen, a great spot for exploring the hot spring town, and Tamatsukuriyu Shrine is only a few minutes away on foot. The open-air bath was spacious, with a breathtaking night-sky view. The hot springs were amazing, and the food was delicious. Dinner came on a stylish plate with lots of small bites. The three-piece meat platter was especially good, tender and full of flavor. I also ordered squid sashimi separately, and it was satisfyingly crunchy. There was so much that I couldn't finish it all. Breakfast was a comfortable size and easy on the stomach.