Yunogo Onsen Chikutei

The staff were attentive and enthusiastic about every request, and the kids’ play area and children’s washing supplies make this a good family hotel. We stayed four nights as a family of four in a five-person bedroom, with breakfast but no dinner. I’d be cautious about skipping dinner, though. There aren’t many places to eat nearby, which is hard with little ones on a schedule. There’s a nice Indian place around the corner that does takeout if you get caught out, but otherwise I’d eat wherever you’re visiting. Our room was acceptable, large and spacious, with a small TV. The bathroom and entrance were both tiny. There was a kettle and fridge, but only tea bags, no green tea or coffee. The futon set was the highlight, and in some ways more comfortable than a bed. The “Onsen” was more of a hotel public bath using treated Onsen water with chlorine and other chemicals. It looked modern and was very clean. The outdoor men’s area had a great view across Yunogo, though people in Yunogo could see you too, so be careful. On a starry night, it would be lovely to sit out there for an hour or so.

A private Onsen tub, spacious rooms, and polite staff made for a marvellous stay. The full-course dinner was brought right to our room in a traditional style.

The setting is the main drawback. There isn’t much to visit nearby, and the location isn’t great. The room and service were very good, though, as were the food and both the public and private baths.

I wanted to try some local sake.