Registered Tangible Cultural Property Ryokan Meisen Kagiyu Okutsuso

The local cuisine menu was excellent—quite different from the typical tempura or branded beef often found at a Ryokan. There were many dishes, and the delicate Japanese seasoning was a hit even with my elderly mother. We were also impressed by the thickness of the matsutake mushrooms. After dinner, a traditional Japanese house across from the Accommodation was opened as a lounge, where we could enjoy complimentary self-serve wine, snacks, and coffee. We stayed in an annex building. Although it looked old from the outside, the interior had been renovated in a modern style with low beds and Ryukyu tatami mats, making it very comfortable. The zelkova tree in the garden—said by staff to be 800 years old—was magnificent. The Onsen was free-flowing from the source, and perhaps because it was a weekday, there was no need for a Reservation for the private baths and no time limit, so my mother and I could relax at length. My brother also tried both baths (including one with standing depth) and said he didn’t encounter any other guests at all—it felt completely private. The water quality was clear and mild with no strong characteristics; without added water it was 42°C, which seemed ideal for longer soaks. However, it was disappointing that soap and shampoo were not allowed in the open-air bath attached to our Room (presumably for environmental reasons). That meant we could only use it briefly—just enough for a quick soak while washing our face in the morning. As for service: there often seemed to be no one around reception or near the entrance area, and even the lounge across the way was unattended. The small number of staff may have been busy; they did not give lengthy explanations of meal items or share stories about the Accommodation unless asked. When we did ask questions they responded politely and kindly, so there were no issues with service—but guests who enjoy chatting with staff or prefer warm, close hospitality might find it lacking. Our family prefers light-touch service where we’re left alone when possible, so this Accommodation suited us well. We would like to stay again.

As a rare Onsen Accommodation that uses 100% free-flowing natural spring water with no added water or heating, it immediately caught my interest as an Onsen lover, so I decided to stay here. The Onsen was a little hot, but the water was very clear and felt wonderful. The Key Bath and Standing Bath were fascinating along with their history, and the private riverside bath offered a relaxing soak while looking out over the Yoshii River stream—truly a pleasant Onsen experience. The building has a great atmosphere and feels calm and comfortable. The staff were also kind, courteous, and welcoming. I had a genuinely enjoyable stay, but considering the price, there were a few disappointing points. For an Accommodation in this class, I expected complimentary drinks (free flow), but that wasn’t the case—even items in the refrigerator were charged. There is tea in the Room, but no coffee, and there is no coffee service in the lobby either. After dinner there was wine, alcohol, and coffee service at a house across the street where we could relax for a while, but snacks to go with drinks still cost extra. Since this is such a lovely place overall, I only wished these kinds of services were offered just a little more generously.