Minshuku Fukufuji

For a night on our trip to Nikko, we thought this would just be a stop, but it became the highlight. The energetic, incredibly kind owner, Mi-chan, and her husband made the unique, authentic meals a lot of fun. There’s a private onsen bath where guests take turns, plus a characterful 'snack' room for drinks and chatting after dinner, and coffee after breakfast in the morning. It’s well worth the trip up to this mountain location.

The food Micchan makes herself is the highlight. Dinner includes seasonal skewers cooked slowly over the irori fireplace, and the seasoned rice (seasoned rice) with wild mushrooms is heavenly. You can taste the care she puts into it. This family-run hotel has a natural hot spring, up the mountain about 20 minutes by car from Kinugawa Onsen station. Getting there is an adventure, but it’s worth it if you’re tired of generic hotel rooms and want to spend time with the staff, mostly Micchan and sometimes her grandsons, and other guests. It’s in the middle of nowhere, and even with the hot springs and heaters, winter temperatures can drop below zero, so be careful. For a short stay, I strongly recommend it. Micchan, the madam, has a bubbly personality and friendly smile that make you feel warm and at home.

After reading the good reviews, I brought our friend from Swis to this inn, and it was the best choice I’ve made. Mi chan was so kind, and the inn was clean and beautiful. The onsen was small but really good. The best part was the irori and the superb food. I’ll absolutely come back.

A comfy homestay with a great homecooked meal. The futon was very comfortable, and the WiFi connection was strong. There’s an onsen, but it’s cash payment only. Highly recommended, give a homestay a try instead of a regular hotel.