Hotel Kazurabashi

The outdoor onsen was so relaxing and absolutely worth the visit. They have public and private baths, but be sure to book ahead. I loved this stay, probably my favorite anywhere in Shikoku. The room mixed modern design with Japanese touches really well. I slept like a baby, and the lounge was comfy, with a modern TV that had YouTube and Netflix. The bathroom was roomy and fully equipped, though the water pressure was pretty low. Dinner was very good, but the beef was too fatty for me to finish. I liked how quickly the courses came, while my husband thought it felt a bit rushed. Breakfast was generous, complete, and really satisfying.

I found the hotel relaxing and a nice way to get a taste of local culture. It’s not quite a luxury onsen hotel, but it is pleasant and some rooms are modern and recently updated. The meal was good and down to earth, without the fancy feel of some kaiseki courses. My favorite was the simple but delicious dinner dessert, which I think was milk pudding with tea jelly. The woman who owns the inn came by during dinner, introduced herself, and sang us a local song. She had an amazing voice. Later, we joined the free bridge tour, where they drive you over to see the bridge, though you can’t cross it. There are limited places, so sign up at check-in. When we left the next day, we got a small bag of sweets. We stayed in a Japanese basic room on the third floor. I’d emailed ahead, and they kindly reserved a newly renovated room for me. Some rooms, including basic rooms, have been renovated over the past few years. The room had toothbrushes, toothpaste, a phone charging extension, a welcome snack, and ice water in a flask. Two keys were provided. The indoor onsen was nice. I went twice, avoiding busy times, and both times I was alone. The women’s area had reusable hairbrushes kept in a sanitizing cabinet. Towels weren’t supplied, so bring one from your room. The outdoor onsen is beyond the indoor one. Shoes are provided at the resting-area exit, and you can take the mountain car or walk up. The outdoor bath is quite small, with outdoor showers and a changing area. There’s also a resting spot by the foot onsen, but it wasn’t hot when I was there. It’s high up on the mountain, so you’ll need a car, but the remote setting has lovely scenery. On arrival, your name is on a welcome board. Stop by the entrance and a staff member will help park your car while you check in, then return your keys. Check-in was simple at the desk. Staff spoke Japanese, Cantonese, Mandarin, and English.

After spending the day exploring the vine bridge and nearby areas, unwinding in the private onsen was great. Book it early once you’re there. The hotel has indoor and outdoor onsens as well as the reservable private one, and they were all very nice. The traditional food made with local ingredients was pleasant, with generous portions that filled us up. Dinner and breakfast service were wonderful. Our room was spacious and well appointed, with lots of thoughtful touches that made the stay comfortable.

The staff were terrific, and it was clear the hotel hired multilingual people so tourists wouldn’t feel lost. We were assigned Mr Chen, who spoke excellent English and Mandarin. He even drove us to the actual Kazurabashi (Vine Bridge) when we wanted to walk there from the hotel. It’s an amazing hotel and ryokan, with delicious breakfast and dinner. Our room was huge and comfortable, and a quirky funicular carried guests to the onsen.