Yamanokami Onsen

A traditional Japanese inn with 160 years of history.

The road to the inn is narrow and very steep, so take care if you’re driving a large car. It has the lovely atmosphere you’d expect from a traditional inn dating back to the Edo period. I’d seen negative comments about cleanliness and staff service, but that wasn’t my experience at all. The restrooms have been fully renovated, making for a nice mix of old and new. The reception staff were friendly and shared both local recommendations and the history of the inn.

I wonder how many guests notice the care behind the hot pot. The venison and wild boar are prepared so thoughtfully, and they use incredible amounts of kelp and bonito flakes in the hot pot and other dishes. I’d never known you could eat Akebia skin until I came here. People looking for a modern inn might be disappointed, but I’d like people with a different point of view to give this place a try.

The food was delicious, especially the venison, wild boar, fresh mountain vegetables, and chewy udon. The friendly older man was really pleasant to chat with, and the inn had that atmosphere of a good old-fashioned Japanese place.