Yuyado Daiichi

I wasn’t sure where to go in Hokkaido this time, but I decided on “Yoroushi” because I’d wanted to visit for over 30 years!Just as the Reviews said, everything was wonderful—the Room, the Onsen, and the meals.For the past few years, every time I come to Hokkaido I’ve felt that Japan’s hospitality industry is being supported by an aging workforce and by staff from overseas.I’d give it all 5s, and everyone served us with a smile and worked very hard, which was truly appreciated.That said, personally I think it would have been fine without a welcome greeting or being shown to our Room. I can talk about meals or work-related matters, but being able to have natural conversation is also a priority for me, so it was somewhat disappointing not to have that.This is not meant as criticism of foreign staff. Their Japanese was good and their service was genuinely excellent.Still, speaking honestly as someone visiting an Onsen, I felt a sense of loneliness that’s different from how things used to be.

The Onsen and sauna were simply outstanding. My wife and I enjoyed the mixed-gender open-air bath, and since both men and women wear bathing garments, we were able to relax and fully enjoy it while gazing at the river. Our son loves saunas and usually unwinds after work, and he said this one was excellent as well. The food was also superb—especially the Hanasaki crab, which was the best crab I’ve ever had—and we thoroughly enjoyed the deep-fried menme too. The staff were all very friendly and kind, which made our stay truly pleasant. Since we stayed in the main building, which is the oldest, we’d like to stay in the newer wing next time. The sake smoothie and soft-serve ice cream we had at the Milk Hall were also perfect after a bath. The only disappointment was that we didn’t get to see the Blakiston’s fish owl; it seems it hasn’t been around lately, and even the staff were concerned about its well-being.