Bekkan Kawanatsu

We came for the first time in early November with our two adult children and our dog. The inn has a lovely old-fashioned, nostalgic feel, and although pets are allowed, our room was spotless and had no smell at all. We checked in early and had time to relax there. The Matsuba crab course was a great choice. We’d considered another inn with an all-you-can-eat plan, but this was the right decision. My adult children care more about flavor than quantity now, and they wanted good crab, not just lots of it. Still, there was crab, crab, and more crab, and we ate our fill. The little side dishes were delicious too, so we were completely satisfied. Everyone at the inn was kind and welcoming. We’d love to come again, perhaps in another season. On the way home, the kids and I were already talking about that. My only regret is that we were supposed to see two mascot cats but only saw one.

I brought my pet to this inn for crab after years of visiting another inn in Hamasaka. The owner, or whoever he was, came across as arrogant, which took the excitement out of arriving. He left out a lot of information, then brought things up later that we hadn’t been told before, and it was confusing. Important details should be explained to both guests at the start so neither side feels uncomfortable. The women working there were a relief. They were welcoming and kind the whole time, always smiling, and the contrast in attitude was striking. I even wondered if they were trying to understand how we felt and support us. There was plenty of crab, but it tasted quite different from what I’ve had at my usual inn. I didn’t feel welcome at all and got the impression they didn’t care if we came back, so I don’t think I will. There was another serious issue, but I’ll leave it unmentioned because it affects the inn’s operations.

Kawanatsu’s crab meal was exquisite, and I was very satisfied with both the food and service. I’ve eaten at many inns, and I’d definitely like to visit again. 🙏👍🥰

I came this winter for the Matsuba crab plan, and since firefly squid is my favorite, I was curious about those dishes too. I was already super full from the crab, but the variety of firefly squid preparations surprised me. I thought I might get tired of eating mostly squid, but every dish had a different flavor and I enjoyed them all. I probably ate around 60 bowls. The breakfast was tasty and filling, and the hot springs felt smooth and wonderful. They have fresh, delicious food all year, and next I’d like to try the summer squid and rock oyster plan.