Kieto Chichibu

Being able to check in and out via smartphone was great, as it made the process easy and stress-free. We stayed for two nights in a dog-friendly Room, and it was very clean both days—we were extremely satisfied. The night view was also beautiful, though the trees blocked it slightly; considering the property is surrounded by nature, it was acceptable. Overall, we were very satisfied, but if I had one suggestion, I felt breakfast could have been a bit more filling.

It’s not too far from home yet still feels like a resort, so this was our second stay. This summer we visited again with three generations—grandparents, our daughter and her husband, our 3-year-old granddaughter—and our white Shiba.As always, the cottage was clean and comfortable. It’s also convenient that you can check in and out via the panel without going through the front desk.One disappointment this time was the BBQ dinner we ordered. Last year there was a proper stand grill and a griddle plate, so we could cook additional items we brought. This year there were two Iwatani outdoor tabletop stoves instead. They came with what seems to be a yakiniku-style plate, but you can’t make yakisoba on it, and there were no cooking utensils such as frying pans.Also, there was only one plate per person. There are plenty of glasses and mugs, but simply not enough plates. If possible, I’d also like to have plastic wrap and aluminum foil available.Reheating cold food is also difficult—you basically have to heat everything on the stove again. Since the weather wasn’t great this year we ate indoors, but because the stoves can only be used outside, I really wished there had been a frying pan.I asked at the front desk just in case, but the response wasn’t very helpful—this could use some improvement as well.The fridge is well stocked and the food is delicious; that’s why it feels like it only needs a little more to be perfect. My son-in-law really likes this place, so we’ll probably stay again next year.Lastly (on a personal note), I was disappointed that the toothbrushes were no longer wooden.