Hotel Ryu Resort and Spa

The meals were amazing, thoughtfully put together, creative, and the courses worked well together. The onsen felt very natural and was small and comfortable, though the walk to the open-air bath was quite far and cold in that season. I came with a group for work. The hotel had nice service and supportive staff, and the Japanese-Western-style room was quiet, large, and spacious. I was on the second floor, and snow covered all the windows, making the room feel like an icebox. Even with the heater at its highest setting, it couldn’t warm the whole large space. In January or February, I’d recommend a higher-floor room. The hotel seems to have been renovated from an older version of itself and still has room for improvement.

My family got hurt during our stay, and one of us missed out on both the onsen and the nearby trail, which threw off our travel plans. The place felt dangerously neglected: it was old and untidy, there were bumps and gaps in our room that were easy to trip over, and warning signs were missing where they were needed. The onsen itself was great, but the stay was deeply upsetting and disappointing. It wasn't worth the money, and I wouldn't recommend this hotel to anyone.

A really great place. I only held back the fifth star because I’ve had stays nearby that were almost as good and cost less.

The open-air hot spring, looking out over the forest, was a real highlight. The water was a comfortable temperature and perfect for relaxing. We also enjoyed the breakfast, with a traditional Japanese meal prepared to suit our pescetarian preference after the staff asked us about allergies and preferences by email several days ahead. There was also a buffet with Japanese and Western food. Our stay began with an upgrade because a better room was available. It was huge, almost like three rooms in one, very clean, and decorated in a modern Japanese and Western mix. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout. We were even given a free drink ticket for the terrace bar, where we sat on a heated terrace with our feet in a bath, surrounded by illuminated autumn trees. Beautiful. One of the best hotels I've stayed in, and I highly recommend it.