Echigoya Ryokan

Dinner had plenty of choices, and the hot dishes arrived hot and tasted good. It did come out a bit too quickly for us to relax, though. The spring water was pleasantly warm, with a slight sulfur smell, and I could stay in it for a long time. I was a first-time guest after reading reviews. The building's exterior looked its age, and the little old-fashioned reception and worn hallways made me wonder about the inside. Still, everything seemed cared for rather than dirty. The guest room and bath area were clean and comfortable, without the mold or rust you often see at older inns. For the price, I think it offers good value, and I'll stay again.

The private bath was small in a charming way, and the generous, luxurious dinner was lovely. The staff were warm and attentive, which really touched me. The building has a well-kept old-fashioned charm, while the rooms and bathrooms were spotless and comfortable. I also loved the sulfur scent of the spring water, its just-right temperature, and the mineral deposits floating in it. I wanted to soak for ages. I really love this place and want to come back.

Breakfast's salted salmon and pickled plums went so well with the white rice. Most of the homemade food was delicious, though I didn't care for the sasa-kamaboko or zunda mochi served at dinner. This is a well-established Japanese-style inn that was cleaned with great care, and the young proprietress is beautiful. There's a good selection of comics in the lobby, plus free freshly ground coffee from 7-10. Parking is free on the north side, and you can book online and pay by card. It's not barrier-free, with guest rooms and bathrooms on the first floor. The hot spring runs freely around the clock, and the men's and women's baths alternate. Each has a clear, slightly alkaline and faintly sulfurous bath kept at 39-40 degrees, with an open-air section that fits about three people.

We booked the smaller meal serving, but there was plenty for us. My 92-year-old mother especially enjoyed the Zunda Ohagi rice balls and ate them all at once. We had a first-floor room, and getting between the room, meals, and hot spring was easy. We were very satisfied and would like to come back.