Shikokuya

After visiting temples 65-61, the vine bridge, and two side temples, this was a restful stop. I had a post-onsen milk while watching enka. The place has a slightly country feel and is a bit older, as are the lovely staff. The outdoor rotenburo was a perfect 40.5 C. Take the slippery warning seriously. Tattoos aren't allowed, though maybe you can cover a single shoulder patch of ink with a towel.

The facility was good and the hot springs were nice. Dinner wasn't part of the room price. Wi-Fi was available either with a free passport or for a fee.

The room was clean and comfy, and the staff were really nice and kind. Great place.

The bath was spacious and nice, though it only stayed open until 10 pm. It was closed in the morning for maintenance or something, and the open-air bath was lukewarm. Walking from the indoor bath to the outdoor one hurt my feet, so I left straight away. I heard the women's bath was fine. This is a lodging for pilgrims, but, as someone else said, it felt more like a training camp. The staff weren't very professional with guests, and the old lodging and facilities didn't seem well maintained. Meals are served in the restaurant area beside the souvenir shop. The food seemed like heavily seasoned home cooking mixed with instant items. I was surprised when the group of pilgrims beside me suddenly started chanting sutras.