Shigisan Kanko Hotel

Our April 5 stay landed right in the middle of full cherry blossom bloom, though we'd worried we'd arrived too late. From the room, pale pink flowers framed Katsura Bridge, a peaceful view that felt like an old Taisho-era postcard. The lobby's big windows made afternoon tea a quiet treat with blossoms all around. Shingi Kanko Hotel sits among the mountains, and we walked over to Toranoo-ji (Tiger’s Tail Temple). It was beautiful and uncrowded, the kind of place that still feels like a discovery before it gets famous. Dinner was seasonal kaiseki, delicate and well suited to the setting. The onsen surrounded by sakura views and scent is easy to understand as one of Japan's top blossom-viewing baths. During cleaning hours, guests were thoughtfully allowed to take photos. Breakfast in the morning was light and healthy. It's a short shuttle trip from the station, making this an overlooked spring stay. For sakura fans, it could be a well-kept secret near Kyoto and Osaka. Shuttle from Kameoka Station takes 10 minutes. Parking is available on site. Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out by 10:00. Seasonal kaiseki dinner, free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets and an in-room toilet. Payment by cash or credit card. I'd definitely visit again.

The staff were really friendly, and every sign was in both Japanese and English, except the sign at the onsen entrance saying tattoos aren't allowed. That one was only in Japanese, for some reason. Of course, they still tell you that you can't go in. It was a good stay, but this feels stuck in the 80s. With the 2020 Olympics coming up in 2019, how many visitors with tattoos do they expect to come and want to experience everything Japan has to offer?

Tasty meals, a nice room, a good view, hot spring water and lots of souvenirs. What more do you need?

Fair value for the price.