Nikko Tokanso

The food was so good and there was so much of it that I could barely finish each meal. Staff even explained what certain dishes were and how to eat them. They were lovely and couldn’t have done more for us. The traditional, old-fashioned interior was clean and tidy, and the shared bathing areas were lovely and clean too. The place is peaceful, inside the park and away from the high street, but the main shops are an easy walk and bus stops are very close. Couldn’t have asked for a better stay.

Nikko is beautiful, and this place is too. Just be aware that despite what the official guidebooks and train advertisements say, you can only use the Onsen if you’re staying at the hotel.

The traditional Japanese style of the place really suited me, and I’d recommend staying here if that’s what you’re looking for. The staff were wonderful and very accommodating. I left my luggage with them before check-in without any trouble. My room was large and had a little sitting room overlooking a small garden. I loved the traditional Japanese dinner, and when I got back, my futon had already been laid out for the night. The indoor and outdoor baths were relaxing too.

The traditional breakfast was nice, and the complimentary shuttle to and from the railroad station was much appreciated. The ryokan is conveniently placed for Nikko’s main shrine area, and it’s very quiet, but the facilities are basic. The interior feels worn and dated, and there’s only a communal shower area, along with the hot spring bath. My room did have a toilet, sink, and mini-split heating. Paraffin heaters kept the lobby warm on cold nights. I booked dinner ahead but was told on arrival they couldn’t provide it. I can’t compare it with other local hotels, but the property seems like it needs some investment.