Nikko Hoshinoyado

I spent two nights here in a Japanese-style room without a shower, and that didn’t cause me any trouble. The ofuro, or onsen, I’m not sure which, was spacious and comfortable, and the hot water eased my fatigue at the end of the day. The staff were very helpful. I didn’t eat breakfast or dinner, so I can’t comment on the food. It’s a bit of a walk from bus stop no.7, and there’s a steep uphill section. If you can, try the shuttle bus.

The kaiseki dinners were delicious, and I especially liked the public bath. The smaller second bath opens to the outdoors on one side. The Japanese-style rooms are large, there’s a lovely garden outside, and the location is excellent.

The onsen was a treat, with both an indoor stone bath and an outdoor hinoki one to choose from. Service was excellent from the front desk to breakfast and housekeeping. Rooms are spacious, clean, and simply furnished, a nice place to unwind. The inn sits among the trees near Shinkyo in Nikko, close to Tobu bus stops and across from the park with the main temple and shrine sights. I’d recommend it to anyone visiting Nikko.

The food was amazing, and the service really stood out. I left my bag on the bus and knew it was at the bus station, so someone from the front desk took their own car and drove me there. I was so impressed. This hotel is incredible.