Hotel Kojokaku

I waited in the lobby, which had a nice view, but the private onsen itself was a terrible experience. Since I have tattoos, I booked a private bath for ¥3300, cash only, with 50 minutes to shower, soak, and dry my hair. That was short, but I understood and expected it. The water was 46°C, too hot for me to get in, so after paying the most I’ve ever spent to use an onsen, I couldn’t use it at all. I told the front desk, and they just apologized and said goodbye and thank you. They didn’t offer another bath with a temperature a person could manage, or a refund of the ¥3300. The dressing room was dusty, and the wallpaper was peeling with what looked like mold on it. I’ve been in Japan for 2.5 months, and this was the worst and most expensive onsen I’ve visited.

The onsen was lovely, with indoor and outdoor baths, and the view made it even more relaxing. They also provide a complete package, including pickup from Jomokogen Station and complimentary dinner and breakfast. I really enjoyed my stay at this ryokan.

We spent one night here and liked the old-fashioned feel. It’s not a modern, new hotel, and that’s part of the appeal, since Japan has private hotels and ryokans known for their age. The rooms are simple Japanese style. There are four private onsens for an extra charge, and we used the Sakura Garden onsen, which has open windows. The tofu-based dinner was one of the best meals we had. Everything served followed the tofu theme. Breakfast was buffet style, with a beautiful view of the lake. It felt like a lovely place for a couple to relax.

The dinner was the bright spot. If you love tofu, theirs is wonderful, and the staff were friendly, helpful, and gave good service. Still, I wouldn’t return. The hotel feels dated and needs maintenance. The lobby looks and smells old, the room and onsen were average, and the rocks in the bath can be slippery. It needs more cleaning and upkeep.