Spa Inn Oyado Iguchi

The location was good, but the rest of the stay was poor. We were on the third floor, where seven people had to share one toilet. The public, unisex showers were downstairs beside a small, dingy hot spring pool. Our room was freezing, and the kerosene heater gave off fumes that nearly suffocated us. It also seemed like a serious fire risk, and I couldn’t see an emergency exit from the third floor. There wasn’t even a cup or glass in the room, and although we were with a group, we saw no sign that any food was provided. I didn’t find the owner friendly either; he was surly when I was there. There was no feeling of a traditional local inn where you might eat with the family. This was the one bad spot in an otherwise lovely trip to Japan. I wouldn’t recommend staying here, and I don’t know how any Japanese Tourist Authority could consider it fit for purpose.

We booked for three, but there were only two tatami and two sets of supplies ready. The owner was nowhere to be found, and the place was dirty. It was a really bad experience. Sleeping in the car would have cost less and probably wasn’t much worse.

The hot spring spa was properly hot, and we had a great stay at this traditional inn. It’s in a great location, with a gorgeous koi pond, and the owner was extremely helpful. WiFi is free, but breakfast wasn’t included for us. For sleeping, I’d suggest layering up the futon.

The ryokan owner boss can take you back to the station in his bus after your stay, and the family staff were helpful. We had food and onsen too, which made for a genuine Japanese stay. The futon was comfortable, though not very comfortable. A full futon experience, with a great spot by the river.