Hotel Kusakabe Armeria

The surprise flower arrangement was a success, and we also enjoyed strolling around the Gero Onsen town.We thoroughly enjoyed both baths!We were very satisfied with the meals as well.It was great that the two of us could relax and spend time together.We ended up saying we want to come back together again, so I think we’ll visit again soon!Next time, we’ll stay here as a married couple!

Since I usually stay at a Business Hotel, I decided to treat myself to a proper Accommodation for a change. As it was the off-season, I chose a great-value Japanese-style Room with both dinner and breakfast included.I left by car at 6:30 a.m., stopped by the World Freshwater Fish Aquarium for about three hours on the way, and arrived at 4:00 p.m. The staff gave me such a courteous welcome—it was especially nice since I’m used to Business Hotels.After check-in, there was a cable elevator on the way to the Room—so unique! However, it moved quite slowly, so it didn’t handle crowds well and most people ended up using the stairs...Once in my Room, I headed to the open-air bath on the 8th floor before dinner. The Onsen water quality was outstanding! The view from the open-air bath was also amazing—the steam rising from the mountains created an almost magical atmosphere.After bathing, dinner buffet was delicious overall except for the sushi with strong vinegar. The Hida beef sukiyaki, hoba miso, and sashimi were exceptional! The all-you-can-eat roast beef was also fantastic. There were various alcoholic drinks as well; unfortunately I can’t handle alcohol well, but it would be irresistible for those who enjoy drinking.After dinner, when I returned to my Room they had already laid out my futon. I lay down “just for a moment,” but it felt so comfortable that I nearly got pulled right in—though it still felt too early to sleep. I tried to make a karaoke Reservation on the 8th floor, but everything was fully booked.With no choice, I relaxed in my Room and ended up falling asleep as-is. In the morning I tried to get up, but the futon was so comfortable that it took some effort—still, I managed to go back up to the 8th floor for another morning bath and enjoyed that dreamy scenery again in total bliss!Breakfast afterward—croissants, soup dumplings (xiaolongbao), and more—was all delicious as well!It became a wonderful memory.Overall highly recommended!