Yumoto Saito Ryokan

The host did a great job explaining the room and each dish during a really enjoyable dinner. Staff were waiting outside when we arrived, which immediately made us feel they wanted us to be comfortable. Even the narrow mountain drive up was nice. We loved our stay and only wished we had booked longer. It was the best Ryokan experience of our 10 day trip.

Booking was the only real downside. The process is entirely in Japanese, which makes it very difficult for foreigners who don’t understand the language. The accommodation itself was excellent. Our room was large, nicely designed, and had a great view, even though it overlooked the car park. There were two tea sets with different teas. While we were at dinner, the tea sets were cleaned and the room tidied, so it looked freshly checked in when we got back. The staff greeted us on arrival and helped park the car. Way, the Chinese translator, was especially helpful with our questions and concerns about snow and icy roads. He also showed us around the buildings and explained the facilities, making it much easier to communicate with staff. Everyone was friendly. The onsen options included an indoor public bath with showers, an outdoor public bath without showers, and a private bath for an extra charge. On my several visits, the number of bathers seemed well controlled and it never felt too crowded. There was also a massage chair with no extra charge. Dinner was served like fine dining, and breakfast and dinner were both provided. I’d have preferred better tasting food, just my personal taste. Service and hospitality were excellent.

The only real drawbacks were that Wi-Fi was available only in the lobby, and there wasn’t much to do in the village beyond bathing and walking in nature on unofficial trails. That was fine by me. The white water onsen were beautiful and peaceful, the rooms were spacious with a wonderful mountain view, and service was on point. The food was excellent, especially one dinner, which was the best I’ve had in Japan so far. I highly recommend staying at Yumoto Saito Hotel +++.

It was wonderful, with great food and amazing staff. The natural sulfur onsens were lovely, and we were sad to leave. Don’t tell anyone about this place, it rewards those willing to find it.