Nagatoro Hana no Omotenashi Choseikan

The baths were a highlight for me. The outdoor water felt more mineral-rich and slick on the skin than the indoor bath, and the men’s bath has a lovely garden view. The baths stay assigned by gender, and the relaxation room has free massage chairs that are seriously strong. We had a second-floor room, so the balcony gave us a wide view of the Arakawa River and mountains. The rooms have been beautifully renovated with new furniture and tatami. It was comfortable for our family of three, though I’d suggest two rooms for four people. The entry space is a little cramped when you’re juggling shoes and slippers. Rooms face east, with first-floor views of either the garden or river, and river views from the second floor. Dinner was delicious and generous, served in a dining room that mixes traditional and modern styles. The ingredients came from the local hodosan area. Our young child had an okosama set, which was about six times more food than they could manage. Breakfast was very traditional with no kids’ menu, so a picky child might struggle with the more adult dishes. The coffee was an especially good roast from a shop just outside the ryokan. Choseikan is a well-known ryokan and was busy at reception, in the dining room, and around the baths. It’s about a five-minute walk from Nagatoro train station. We were welcomed by a professional clerk, and the staff were warm and attentive throughout. They pointed out the gardens and gave us a map of the river area when we went to take in the view from the breakfast room. The gift shop clerk was especially friendly. We’d stay at Choseikan again on a future trip to Nagatoro. Best regards from Canada.