Kokoro Yasuragu Yado Ryokan New Marushin

Dinner was so generous that I was completely full. There was a good mix of dishes, from sashimi served on a boat-shaped platter to fries and simmered food. I was staying while traveling around Shikoku. The parking area is tight, so with anything bigger than a minicar, using the paid lot by the river may be the better choice.

I wanted a place with more character than a standard business hotel, and the retro room and food appealed to me. The meals were plentiful, with Tokushima favorites like Awaodori chicken, sea bream sashimi, and fish cutlet. The landlady would stop by for a friendly chat, which helped me feel relaxed traveling on my own. ☺️ It’s an older inn, but my room was clean and had Wi-Fi. I barely needed the shared bathroom and toilet, and the hallway had a microwave, refrigerator, and water dispenser. It was a comfortable, budget-friendly stay for me. A few things to know if they matter to you: it’s a walk from the station, and the hallways and changing rooms can feel chilly. Some side dishes are set out ahead of time and aren’t hot. At night I could hear trains and the gas station behind the inn. I didn’t mind these things, but people sensitive to cold or noise, or expecting luxury dining and convenience, may feel differently.

There’s a Family Mart about a minute away, and Tokushima Station takes 8-10 minutes on foot. I tried running there myself and couldn’t make it in five, so allow enough time or you could miss the bus. Finding a car near the station can be really difficult, so renting one at the airport is a good idea. The owner is friendly. Since the rates are low, keep expectations modest for the room and cleanliness.

The room was quite clean, and there was a sink just inside the entrance. The parking area is very cramped, even in a compact car. The toilet is shared and outside the room, which felt a little scary at night. I didn’t try the hot springs or the food, so I can’t comment on those.