Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri

The food was beautifully arranged, like art, and used local seasonal ingredients such as mikan and yuzu. Our room was huge for two people, with two beds, a tatami room, and a closet. There are both public and private onsens, indoors and open-air. Loved it!

The room was spacious and comfortable, and we had a great meal. We chose the Kumano beef set, which came with a wide variety of dishes, and every bit was spectacular. This was our final stop on the Kumano Kodo hike, and a perfect way to finish. The hotel has one of the best onsens I’ve experienced. Both the private and public baths were fantastic.

The surroundings were astonishing, and the staff helped arrange luggage transport to our next hotel and booked us a taxi. The baths were very large and hardly crowded, while the spacious interior had the feel of a luxury traditional Japanese spa. A month later, I was still thinking about this hotel and came back to write a review. The traditional Japanese dinner was the most authentic experience I had in Japan.

My wife and I spent four memorable days at Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri, and left with wonderful memories and a strong wish to return. It gave us the traditional onsen stay we wanted, with attentive service, clean facilities, good food, and personal care throughout. We’d highly recommend Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri to anyone looking for an authentic onsen experience with comfort and great service. The shuttle service stood out. The two drivers were enthusiastic about the area and, on their own initiative, took us to natural hot springs along the river. That unexpected little tour gave us a lovely glimpse of the region’s geothermal scenery. The front desk staff were courteous, warm, and attentive from arrival to departure, and clearly cared about guests’ experience. The indoor hot spring facilities were immaculate and peaceful. The bathing areas were thoughtfully laid out, and the mineral-rich water was at a pleasant temperature with the therapeutic qualities onsen lovers look for. Every breakfast and dinner over our four days was a highlight, with excellent quality, presentation, and variety. The chef showcased seasonal ingredients and local specialties, and the waitstaff were friendly, warm, and attentive.