Nikko Sansui

I visited the hot spring spa area while on an excursion to Nikko, and found the place run down and not very clean. Most of the area was covered over, leaving guests only a tiny space to bathe. The towels were barely larger than thin facecloths.

I only used the one Day onsen option, and was really let down. This place might have been great 20 years ago, but now it could pass for a horror movie set. It was dirty, with hair and dust all over the floor and even in the water. Algae and mushrooms were growing all over the interior structures.

I found it on Google map and went just for the Higaeri Onsen day-use hot spring. The bathroom was small, but it had an open air bath, and I was the only person using it. For 800 yen, it felt like a luxurious time. Both front desk staff were very kind, and I felt Japanese hospitality, OMOTENASHI 🙏. I'd like to stay overnight next time. Arigato gozaimashita.

Looking out from our sixth-floor room, we could see the moon and Lake Chuzenji. The room was small, clean, and cozy, and the whole ryokan felt warm and homey. I loved staying here, and the food was delicious too! The open-air bath eased my aching muscles and shin splints. Nikko has always meant a lot to me, and this stay made it feel even more special.