Nikko Grand Hotel Honokana Yado Jurin

We were warmly welcomed as soon as we arrived. Even when I was smoking in the courtyard smoking area, a staff member who was preparing the bonfire chatted with me in a friendly way. Also, when I asked at the front desk about recommended nearby spots, they kindly told me about places such as a shop with delicious salted yokan, and their service was very attentive. When I came down with a fever late at night, I made an unreasonable request for rice porridge; the head chef prepared it and a staff member delivered it to our Room. I was truly moved by how delicious it was and by their kindness.The Onsen was so comfortable that I ended up soaking for a long time, and the open-air bath stayed warm even in the cold without being too hot. My wife was also happy that her skin felt so smooth.Since it was only a one-night, two-day trip, we had to head straight home on the second day, but we’re very grateful—it turned into a wonderful trip where we could feel people’s warmth.

It was my first time staying somewhere where slippers weren’t used indoors, and guests were asked to go barefoot or wear the provided amenity socks.Most of the floors are tatami, so it didn’t feel strange, but I did notice that the carpet on the stairs was worn.The indoor bath was quite hot, but the open-air bath was just the right temperature. The morning open-air bath was especially wonderful.The meals were satisfying in both quality and quantity, but I would have liked a wider selection of local sake and local craft beer.