Auberge Yuragi

Mid-June 2025 was my first visit. I was driving from Shikokuchuo City to Niihama City along the Besshi Line during the rainy season and stopped to see the hydrangeas. I arrived in the afternoon while it was raining, and the view of the rain and fresh greenery through the window was lovely and soothing. I ordered coffee, which they ground and brewed fresh, and the aroma was wonderful. The handmade cups felt lovely too. Thanks for the treat.

The dinner was fantastic, especially the appetizer: vegetables, prosciutto, duck, smoked salmon, shrimp, and thinly sliced scallops with salmon roe. That alone would earn a high rating from me. The pumpkin pie soup came piping hot and was exquisite, and the salmon, meat, warm bread, and dessert were all excellent. Breakfast was delicious too. I can see why some people come just for lunch. I was there for one night, and it seemed like a family-run place with a large garden that must take a lot of work to maintain. I arrived at 5:30 PM, but dinner was at 6:00, so there wasn't time to relax before I had to hurry to get ready and go to the restaurant. The bed sheets were clean and comfortable, though the duvet was too thick and made me sweat so much I couldn't sleep. The toilet and refrigerator hadn't been cleaned properly. Amenities are kept by the front desk, which makes it practical to take what you need. Thank you for your hospitality.

The course menu was delicious, with standard dishes that were each carefully prepared. The portions felt a little small for a man, but when I mentioned it, they made me an extra pizza. It had tomato sauce, and the ingredients and the chef's skill made it delicious. The inn describes itself as a restaurant where you can stay overnight, and I can see why. I'd definitely like to return. I stayed in February. It's at a high altitude, but being in Shikoku meant there was less snow than in Kitahiroshima, which felt safer. The room was clean and well maintained, though I gave it three stars because there was no humidifier. The air was so dry that I woke during the night. With the heater on in that dry climate, it can be hard if you're not used to it. I managed to sleep after wetting a towel and hanging it up to dry. A humidifier would've made it perfect.

The food was delicious, which makes this a shame. We came for lunch as a family of four in October 2024, and had the place to ourselves. While we were still eating and drinking hot coffee, staff began clearing away forks and tablecloths at the reception counter. It was noisy and disruptive, and we couldn't relax. Were they trying to hurry us out?