Kyouya

The room and meals were both great, and the heater made the chilly mountain air cozy. I’d been hoping to stay here for a year after seeing it somewhere, maybe in a magazine, on TV, or on my phone. When my first stay finally came on October 23, 2025, the landlady and her husband were so kind, and I could really relax. I’d love to come back.

I booked through Rakuten after seeing the good reviews, and my card was charged, so I understood the booking to be confirmed. Later, I got a cancellation email from an address I didn’t recognize. When I called the inn, they said they couldn’t prepare a room because they’d forgotten to update the booking site’s inventory and had overbooked. They didn’t suggest another inn, which I thought would normally be offered. Rakuten said they “think” they would deal with the cancellation fee. I keep thinking how frightening it would have been to miss that email and only find out on the day, after reaching Tawarayama. The inn should have called to explain the cancellation. I don’t know whether it was an administrative mistake or whether they cancelled because there weren’t enough guests. It made for a frustrating, sad long weekend. I reported it to Rakuten, but haven’t heard from the inn since, and I suppose I’ll have to cover the cancellation fee as part of my travel expenses. Things like this happen, I guess. I learned something new.

The couple running the inn welcomed us warmly, and we really appreciated their hospitality. The building is old, with that hot spring inn feel, but it was clean and well cared for, so we could relax. The food was tasty and generous. Toilets are shared, though they have good washlets. We’ll definitely stay here again when we visit Tawarayama Onsen. Thanks again for having us.

The rooms have a calm, relaxing feel, though you do have to be mindful of the people next door. Families or couples might want to ask about that. Most guests seemed older, and things got quiet early since everyone went to bed quickly. The toilets are shared, but they’re clean and have washlets, so that was fine. I was glad each room had its own sink. Sharing a place to handle contact lenses and toothbrushes would be a hassle. The owner’s husband apparently works as a hotel chef and has a good reputation. I’m glad I chose breakfast only this time. The landlady seemed reserved at first, but when I was leaving she was unexpectedly friendly and asked where I was from.