Nasu Onsen Pension Aioi

We had a really cozy stay when we visited in October. It was raining, but the big wood stove in the main hall made the time feel special. My kids and I played board games there, listening to the firewood crackle and the rain outside. Thanks so much for looking after us.

The food portions were just right, and although we were full, the cake included in our plan was light enough to enjoy after dinner. The staff were lovely, the food was great, and the service for families with kids was excellent. I was unsure about adding coffee for 300 yen, but the iced herbal tea was refreshing and really good. The room had its own toilet, though the sink was separate. We couldn't use the bath in the morning, and I wasn't sure how we'd get ready. With messy mom hair, I felt awkward heading to the shared sink. We'd booked and used the hot spring, but razors and shaving supplies weren't recommended there, and I wanted to shave. Using the shared sink (omitted). I'd have given five stars, but the bath situation is a drawback. I think families with children up to around elementary school age would still be very happy here.

We chose this place for our first trip after our child was born. The couple who run it were incredibly kind, clearly love children, and have lovely personalities. Our 10-month-old was shy around strangers, which made me feel bad. The food was delicious, and we'd like to come back when our child is a little older.

The food was a highlight, both dinner and breakfast. The salad dressing was rich and tasty, and the meat in the evening stew was tender. We were greeted by a gentle couple, and the dining room downstairs was bright and had a nice atmosphere. The children got so distracted by all the toys that they barely ate, then quickly went back to playing. The wife played with us afterward, which was a big help. We'd booked a Japanese-style room, but there was a Japanese-Western room with a bed available that day, so we switched after being offered the choice. The room was tidy, though pretty average, as the pension itself is old. The stairs are steep, so be careful with small children. It's up in the mountains at about 600m elevation. I knew it was popular with families because of the good reviews, and this was my first stay.