Takinoya

Our room had a private outdoor onsen and a private dining room, both of which we enjoyed. Breakfast was much better than dinner, which was the least enjoyable kaiseki meal we had on our trip compared with other ryokans in a similar price range. The fish was dry and overcooked, and the courses didn’t feel particularly refined or well seasoned. We came for our anniversary and emailed ahead about dietary restrictions and whether they could arrange a small dessert with candles. We were happy to pay, but didn’t get a reply or the dessert, which was disappointing. At check-in, which began strictly at 2pm, one staff member was handling the front desk. There was only one couple ahead of us, yet we waited about 20 minutes. The matcha and snacks in the lounge after check-in also took a while. Since different staff seemed to handle that, it felt like the process could have been more efficient while guests waited. We could clearly hear staff in the pantry through the room’s poor sound insulation, including early in the morning, which made it less relaxing. It was an acceptable stay, but we’re unsure it was worth ¥136,400 per night for two. The ¥300 per person per night onsen tax has to be paid in cash.

Dinner and breakfast were both fresh and well prepared, and the location was good. Those were the only things that worked well for us. For a D type room, I’d consider staying if the price were under 500 per night, but not at a higher rate. The room felt dated, and there weren’t enough amenities for the price. Be careful to book only D type rooms if you want an in-room onsen. That’s clear on the hotel’s own website, but vague on Trip.com. I missed that detail, so it was my first disappointment. The toilet faucet wobbled and was coming off, making it hard to turn on and off, and the fridge cupboard doors were loose and rickety. It was quite warm in late April to early May, when we stayed. I asked staff whether we could use AC instead of the heater. An elderly Japanese-speaking-only staff member responded curtly, came up with a handheld translator, and said opening the door was the best option. But the old room made a howling wind noise when the door was open. I recorded it in the video attached below. Dining service felt rough around the edges. Plates were thumped loudly onto the tables, and the lone waiter seemed badly rushed while covering multiple dining rooms.

The food was delicious. They even prepared vegetarian kaiseki for my husband, with a really tasty range of tofu. The salad sauce and chocolate cake were mind-blowing! The futon was so comfortable, and the onsen water was amazing, with my favorite egg smell. There are four outdoor onsens, each with an incredible view. It was so peaceful here, and all the workers were kindhearted and helpful. I didn’t want to go on to our other hotels, haha. I would’ve liked to stay longer. Thank you to all the workers here, you’re the best! 🤍

The location made sightseeing easy. Hell Valley (Jigokudani) and the Bear Park are both an easy walk away. The kaiseki dinner was a highlight too, with fresh ingredients, elegant presentation, and courses that arrived at a good pace. The onsen was outstanding, and our room was quiet and beautifully maintained. From the moment we arrived, the staff at Noboribetsu Onsen Kyo Takinoya made us feel welcome with warm, attentive, professional service. Everything from the food to the atmosphere was top quality. We’d absolutely stay here again in Noboribetsu.