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.

I had some business in Utsunomiya and wanted to relax in a milky-white Onsen, so I decided to travel a bit farther and stay here. The Onsen was a wonderful milky-white bath with a pleasant sulfur scent. The open-air bath is a little small, but I could fully enjoy the great outdoors. Best of all, it was available at night as well, and I ended up soaking three times during the night. Breakfast was included with an inexpensive Plan; there were fish and local ingredients prepared, plus an additional buffet-style option (a system where you can add more items). The Facility is somewhat old, but it was well cleaned, so it didn’t bother me at all. There were some foreign staff members as well, but everyone—including the front desk—was very friendly, and I’d like to come again.