Motoyu Magokuro

I booked room 307 through japanican and only found out later that it has no in-room shower, just a toilet and washbasin. The japanican listing didn't say that, or even mention a shared bathroom. I was shocked and frustrated by the lack of information during booking. I discovered this only after looking around the hotel's website much later. I also searched the hotel's site, japanican, and agoda for an online way to contact them, but couldn't find one. The hotel's phone number even says it's for Japanese speakers only. I haven't stayed there yet, but finding other options this late is frustrating because all the decent places are already booked. I wish the hotel and booking agents would explain details like this clearly beforehand, so customers could choose a room that suits them.

My partner and I stayed for two nights in October 2023, and nearly two years later we still think fondly of this place and Naomi-san. Naomi-san's warm hospitality, humor, and kawaii shop made the ryokan feel special. The rotemburo and other onsen baths were excellent, and the food was delicious. We hope to visit again someday.

For our Christmas holiday in Fukuji Onsen, we spent seven nights across four ryokans. My ranking was: #1 Kakurean Hidaji (Kakurean Hidaji), two nights; #2 Yumoto Choza (Yumoto Choza), two nights; #3 Motoyu Magokuro (Motoyu Magokuro), two nights; and #4 Yamazato-no-iori Soen (Yamazato no Iori Soen), one night (AVOID). At Motoyu Magokuro, the staff were very good and spoke excellent English, so communication was easy. Naomi was especially helpful by email, arranging a pickup from the bus station and making our arrival smooth. New Year towels and gifts were thoughtful festive touches. Our room was the largest we stayed in around Fukuji. It was spacious and beautiful, with mountain views, comfortable tatami, and a reclining chair facing the scenery. The outdoor onsen was tranquil and rejuvenating, one of the strongest parts of the property. The indoor baths were enjoyable too, though the women's bath had a moldy smell that took away from it. The meals were very average and didn't have the refinement we expected from a ryokan of this caliber. Even the sake was disappointing, especially given the region's reputation for rice wine. The food didn't match the room, baths, or overall atmosphere. Still, the comfortable accommodation, scenery, outdoor onsen, and attentive service made it a worthwhile place for guests who care more about relaxation and views than the food.

Everyone was so warm and kind, and they made the place feel like home. The facilities were really well maintained and had everything I needed. Paragon was my favorite part, so relaxing that all my stress melted away. I only wish the dining area had been warmer, since it felt a bit chilly.