Sento Ryokan

We didn't get to try the ryokan's own onsen, so maybe next time. The location is great for visiting the baths: four onsens are within a five-minute walk, though check their closure days so you don't miss one. Wear the Yukata around town for the full experience. The staff were friendly, and the Nepalese staff member who took us to our room spoke good English, checked that our Yukata fit, and showed me how to wear it. The printed instructions were useful, but the hands-on lesson was even better. The traditional tatami rooms are very spacious, and our futons were already set up when we checked in. The onsen pass included with the stay remains valid until 1pm, even after the 10am checkout, so make use of that time. There's also a prize from the ryokan if you collect all the stamps on the onsen trail.

The price is fair and it's not a bad place, but the building and hallways feel pretty Showa. I also wish the lights were warmer instead of white, since the current lighting takes away from the atmosphere.

The hotel sits in the center of town, near some good onsens, and the rooms have a fair amount of space. I'd recommend getting an onsen pass for your visit.

The location is the one thing in this ryokan's favor: it's right across from Goshonoyu, my favorite onsen. I stayed at two ryokans on this visit, and Sento Ryokan was definitely the worse of the two. It was extremely disappointing, and I wouldn't return. There are friendlier places elsewhere in town with better value and similarly good locations. My room was old, musty, and only okay in size, about six tatami, similar to other ryokans I've stayed in. There were some kind of water spots on the wall, and I dreaded wondering what caused them. The reception staff were unfriendly, downright rude, and not accommodating. Check-in was strictly at 3pm. I arrived ten minutes early and asked if I could sit on the lobby sofa, but was told to leave. Before that, a receptionist ignored me and greeted a Japanese couple who arrived after me, as if I weren't there. At other ryokans, I've been allowed to sit and sometimes offered hot tea while waiting for check-in. I asked to add dinner and breakfast, and got a curt no and a map of local restaurants. I understand meals may need to be booked ahead, but they could have explained that without being rude. The receptionist also didn't explain which town onsens were open or closed, their hours, what to see, or where to find local specialties. It felt like they just took the money, checked me in, and left me to figure everything out. The junior staff seemed kinder, more sincere, and helpful. The only reason for one star is the location.