Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

The private Onsen and the authentic Japanese-style stay were nice, but the room needed better upkeep. There was a cockroach and a lot of mosquitos. When I told the counter staff, all I got was an apology, with no sincere compensation or anything like that. For what it costs, I didn’t feel it was worth it.

Getting around is hard without a car since the hotel is out in the middle of nowhere. For the amount I paid, I expected better. The rooms felt very old, dirty, and smelly, and the bedding and pillows were so hard I couldn’t sleep comfortably. The spa is tiny. I could barely fit in the outdoor spa on the balcony. There didn’t seem to be any service from the hotel, either. I asked for a late checkout and they agreed to 25 minutes, but then called me five minutes before it was time and rushed me to come downstairs.

I’ve stayed at Yuzanso at least four times, and it’s gradually become part of my winter routine. The rooms have traditional tatami floors and a private open-air onsen, so you can soak in natural hot spring water with the view and no shared bath or awkwardness. That makes the idea that you can’t experience an onsen in Japan if you’re uncomfortable with nudity completely untrue here. Yuzanso also serves halal-certified traditional Japanese kaiseki for both dinner and breakfast, which is a real plus for Muslim travelers who want the full ryokan meal experience with peace of mind.

The food was delicious, and it’s a bonus for Muslim travelers that everything was halal-certified, Wagyu beef included. The staff were capable and helpful, and made sure we were comfortable. They also drove us to the station for free. Just keep in mind this is a Ryokan rather than a regular hotel. There’s no bed, for example. They bring out a futon for the floor at night while you’re having dinner. My three-star rating comes down to the cold and the wear on the building. I was there in January, and the rooms, hallways, and dining area all felt cold. The shower and bath for our room were outside the building too. The Ryokan has clearly been around a long time, and maintenance seems to be falling behind. Some cupboard doors were hard to open and close, and the fridges loudly struggled to keep a pitcher of water cold in January. The public bath still has old-fashioned baskets for belongings, which felt exposed and unsafe. It’s an old Ryokan with great food and kind staff, but the building is cold and could use some renovation.