Hananosato Onsen Sansuikan

The private outdoor bath was worth every penny. We could soak whenever we wanted, without needing to separate by gender, and the view was incredible. The large baths were nice to have access to as well, with both indoor and outdoor options. The room was gorgeous in a traditional Japanese style, and the sound of the waterfall outside made falling asleep wonderful. We had a five-course dinner with lots of seasonal components, and I was so full the next morning I couldn’t finish breakfast. The location, views, baths, food, and staff all made this a trip I’ll never forget. Everyone was incredibly kind and attentive. We couldn’t speak Japanese, but they used a little translator to help us as much as possible. The shuttle made getting to and from the station easy, but it leaves right on the dot, so get to the meeting point early. We came from Tokyo that morning on a shikansen, and still had time for lunch and sightseeing in nearby Kyoto. It’s well placed between Kyoto and Osaka for travel, though really, it’s a place to get away. 100/10.

We drove there in June with my family, and the narrow road made access harder as we got closer. Food choices were limited, with only curry options when we asked. It cost 1400 yen for adults and 800 for children, and we couldn’t get the private bath. We arrived at 1pm and were told it would close at 3pm. The female bath was empty and had a great river view. The water wasn’t too hot, so my kids under 7 could get used to it, and the outdoor bath was really nice. For men, though, you have to shower, get dressed, then go to level 3 for the outdoor bath, which is quite troublesome. I gave it 3 stars because of the price, difficult access, and the setup for the men’s outdoor bath.

The meals were a real treat. Our five-course dinner included pheasant hot pot, and breakfast let us try many dishes we hadn’t known before. We wore the Yukata provided for each guest to the indoor public onsen and for both meals. My husband and I enjoyed the public baths, inside and outside, a lot. We booked one night in a Traditional Style Room with a private outdoor onsen and two meals to celebrate his birthday and our 5th marriage anniversary, during a 2.5 week stay in Osaka. The room was lovely, the traditional bed was a delight, and the river views were even better. The private onsen water was very hot, but in February’s cold weather it felt like heaven. The staff spoke little English, but my limited Japanese and their translation technology helped us understand each other. The owners speak English, and we got to meet and chat with them. The owner told us about national Shogi competitions held there a few months earlier and showed us photos. The hosts’ shuttle to and from Takatsuki Station was completely free, and they warmly saw us off when we left. It wasn’t cheap, but it was absolutely worth it. I think we’ll definitely return.

The staff were friendly and really helpful. They showed us around the hotel and checked our bus again when we left, which we appreciated since buses are limited in this remote area. The hotel is right by the bus stop in Kawayu Onsen, and there’s a small shop near the lobby selling local goodies. Breakfast has both Japanese and Western choices, and I really enjoyed the river view while eating. Try the onsen egg and onsen porridge. There are gender-separated and mixed outdoor onsens, but I didn’t go, so can’t comment on them. At an onsen hotel, you should try the special outfits. It was a nice stay overall, though there was a slight bad smell in the hallway and some stains on the duvet. I recommend staying here.