Shinshu Shibu Onsen Kokuyaya

Thank you very much for everything.Every year, we take a trip around our September wedding anniversary holiday. This year, we decided to visit Shibu Onsen, which my wife had long dreamed of, and booked through the IKYU site.The reasons I rated the Onsen and the Facility/amenities 4 stars are as follows:The Onsen water was simply too hot. I apologize to those who prefer very hot baths, but if you could lower the temperature of the source water flowing into the bath a bit more, it would be easier to relax. The private-bath system itself is good.As for the Facility/amenities, I would really like you to add a small shop. If guests want to have drinks in their room at night, it can feel a bit inconvenient.Other than that, I have no complaints at all.At first, all the stairs in the Ryokan were tough, but we gradually got used to them—and it was fun exploring the maze-like corridors while visiting different indoor baths. (It may be a little challenging for elderly guests...)As for service, this was one of the best Ryokan experiences we’ve ever had. The attendant who told us about local specialties and sights, the young man with glasses who gave us a ride on the tuk-tuk, and everyone from overseas whom we passed in the hallways—all of it was wonderful.We would love to visit again.Thank you very much.

After earning my Onsen Sommelier Master certification, I’ve been gradually visiting Onsen around Japan.The water quality in Shibu Onsen is truly wonderful. I was surprised by how many international visitors there were. Because the public bath tour was crowded, I couldn’t visit them all… but I was able to enjoy almost all of the baths at the Ryokan.The staff were very friendly and relaxed, which made my stay truly soothing.To Mr. Y from the male staff: thank you for all the fun conversations. If you have time, please do come to Niigata again.