The hotel is quite large compared to the other traditional hot spring hotel. The room is large, with Japanese tatami sitting area and western style bed. The room is very tidy and neat. The breakfast and dinner is buffet style, with lots variety from sashimi, tempura, noodles, curry .. etc. and they are all very fresh and delicious too. The onsen is large, includes both indoor and outdoor pool. Though there are group tours living here, but it is not too crowded. Overall this hotel is quite good.
Shikanoyu Ryori Ryokan is an absolute gem. The nearly 100-year old property barely shows its age with the many improvements the Kagami Family, the 4th generation proprietors, made to make it an impeccably appointed traditional Japanese ryokan. There are just four similarly sized tatami mat guest rooms that are ideal for couples but can accommodate up to 4 people. The radium hot spring waters, known as “deer springs” or Shikanoyu, were discovered over 600 years ago, and continue to feed the two intimate and picturesque communal baths, as well as the Wada stream waters that run alongside the property. But the very best part of our stay was enjoying the extraordinary hospitality of our hosts, Mrs. Kayano Kagami and her husband. The couple couldn’t have been more accommodating. The husband and wife work as a team to produce the most amazing meals from locally sourced organic rice, fruits, and vegetables, while meats and fish are ordered directly from specialty wholesalers. We will not soon forget the extraordinary meals we enjoyed there. Mrs. Kagami communicates very well in English, so you don’t need to worry about language issues. The sightseeing options are limited for families like ours with a teenager, but can be quite interesting for Japanese history buffs and nature lovers, especially mountain hikers. At Shikanoyu Ryori Ryokan, you will find the ultimate riverside mountain retreat animated by quintessential Japanese hospitality.
