Aone Onsen Ititou Onsen Yado

We traveled as a couple with one dog. When choosing accommodations, we usually look for three things: an in-room hot spring bath, pet-friendly policies, and good food. We chose Aone Onsen / Private Villa Hot Spring Inn because it is five years old, offers 100% free-flowing hot spring water direct from the source, and even serves fugu in winter—though we stayed in autumn.The property is five years old and clean, but it felt a bit small. I wouldn’t say we were completely satisfied, but we had no real complaints either. I did wish there had been a proper dining table in addition to the lounge table.Dinner and breakfast were already prepared in the refrigerator when we arrived. We set everything out ourselves, cooked using a portable gas stove, cooked rice ourselves, and ate in the room. It’s not something you can compare to meals at places that cost JPY 150,000–300,000 per night, but everything—including sashimi and beef—was delicious.Considering the price, we had no complaints about the facilities or amenities. The hot spring was outstanding—truly genuine free-flowing water from the source. Among all the onsen areas we’ve visited (Izu, Hakone, Nasu, Ikaho, Kaga, Awara, Gero), this ranks in our top three as a couple.As this is a private rental where you normally don’t meet staff in person anyway, service was handled by phone when we had questions or requests—and they responded satisfactorily each time.The quality of the hot spring more than made up for any minor shortcomings; it exceeded our expectations in a good way. In fact—and this says it all—we booked four more stays before the end of the year as soon as we got home.

The price was reasonable compared to others, and it was great that the Room had a private Onsen.However, there was an issue: the sewage smell was extremely strong, which was disappointing. The odor came up from under the bathroom doorway and from the sink, making me feel unwell, and that was very unfortunate. (Later, I received an email from the owner explaining the cause and apologizing, but I wish it had been checked and inspected before my stay.)Also, since this plan was No Meals Included, it would have been helpful to have aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and a measuring cup for the rice cooker.Because the Accommodation is located in the mountains, I recommend arriving during daylight hours.There is nothing around it, so it was very quiet.I would like to stay again.