4-Star Hotels in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan

I read the mixed reviews and was concerned about my choice, particularly those which highlighted some concerns on the service, etc. Generally, it's an acceptable hotel. We met friendly and very helpful foreign staff who were sincere. I think mainly because all the staff has to multi-task from the front desk to meals etc, they may not appear very attentive. But we had a good experience with the foreign staff so far, particularly Adihadara. I am not sure if I spelt his name correctly. I call him ”Adi” in short. He was eager to help my husband with our luggage and took note of our preference for a table at the window for our meals. The property does appear aged and some apparent wear and tear but their effort to maintain it at this level of general acceptable look and feel is commendable. At the end of our two nights stay, we did have an enjoyable time to chill and relax at the hotel.

I had a truly wonderful day at this hotel on March 2, 2026. The front desk staff, Ms. Qing, was incredibly professional and multilingual. She explained the hotel's policies and information clearly and politely, making me feel like I had stepped into a five-star hotel. I also enjoyed both dinner and breakfast; the food was delicious and perfectly suited my taste. Ms. Qing also handled the restaurant service, and I was amazed at how she could manage so many tasks simultaneously while providing such excellent service. She was very attentive not only to me but also to other guests, and I was extremely satisfied. The hotel was very quiet, and it was a memorable and lovely stay. I would definitely like to return when I have the time.

One of the worst locations at Kinugawa Onsen area. Hidden in the mountain, no significantly beautiful view. Despite we need to pay for ”Hoshino Resort price”, unlike other cheaper hotels, we need to PAY for TAXI ourselves and getting a taxi during new year time is a terribly painful. Hotel staff lack of initiatives getting us cab instead we need to open different apps and such ... and on the way back the following day we ended up walking for 20 mins by ourselves .... Food is ok, onsen is ok, cleanliness ok, but nothing super ordinary. You can pay attention to details in decorations and inhouse services, but you can't pay attention to one of the most obvious services you HAVE TO provide to your guests, Hoshino ---- shuttle service .......

The room was spacious, the bed was comfortable, and the view was great. The free cocktail and coffee services in the lobby were nice, as well as the free drink bar (including one beer per person) near the entrance to the hot spring. The paid massage service was also good. The meals were decent, especially the grilled beef, which simply melted in my mouth. The restaurant staff welcomed us warmly and provided friendly service. Cons: The variety of hot springs was lacking, and the view from the hot springs was almost blocked, which was disappointing. The lockers for valuables used combination dials, and foreign guests often didn’t know how to use them, locking their room keys inside and struggling to reopen them. This was a major inconvenience. They should switch to a key-and-wristband system like other onsen hotels. The room itself felt like an old, once-grand mansion that had seen better days. The furniture had many scratches, and the surfaces were worn and peeling. It made me think it must have been impressive in the past. Still, the room was definitely more spacious compared to other hotels.

Value for money, clean room and washroom with bath tub. The breakfast in hotel is nice and yummy, lots of choice at buffet, decent seating. Location is great for travellers not driving. The public bath at rooftop has splendid view and atmosphere but the water is not hot enough. Also the hotel does not has its own car park but there is plenty of hourly-pay car parks around.

Room : Standard room spacious for 2 people Bathroom : Spacious. I like the most. Food : Breakfast - Simple but nice and tasty too. Facilities : Laundry - cheaper and convenience. If you don't have coin, you can always go to their receptionist counter and ask for the change. Extra : Iron & Iron Board - you can request at the counter. Check In : Super easy and fast (provided that you have all the docs ready. Just give the booking number & passport to them)

4.5 stars!  Property is older but extremely well maintained.  The corner western/Japanese rooms are spacious with two western beds and tatami area, single japanese bath and shower area and separate toilet area, mini fridge, tv, sitting area overlooking the river and table with four chairs as well as a massage chair!  Onsen area has both indoor and outdoor areas separate for men and women and a cold plunge as well as multiple hot baths.  Minus half a star for low staffing in the store/cafe areas (often no staff member to be found when kakigori desired), no in house lunch option and overly fatty meat on the 3rd night dinner (breakfast and dinner were LARGE and BEAUTIFUL but perhaps heavy on the yuba.  Also, shuttle to the train station is only at 10 and 11am and getting cabs is difficult.  However, would overwhelmingly recommend Nikko Senhime Monogatari!

This hotel is recommended. Great buffets with variety of options (japanese, western, tempura, wagyu). Fruit taste was not as good as we expected though and you might not feel excited much about the food after a couple days as they’re pretty much the same. Wonderful public baht with generous amenities provided. Pajama is not needed if you enjoy wearing yukata and sock when sleeping at night as we did. Staff were also friendly. We had a great time overall.

I was very impressed with my stay at Hotel Kinugawa Onsen 💙. The buffet spread for both breakfast and dinner was incredibly extensive, offering a huge variety of Japanese and other dishes. I was completely satisfied and felt it was excellent value for money. The onsen was also fantastic, very clean, and well-equipped with all the amenities needed for a truly relaxing soak. The hotel's surroundings were peaceful and immersed in nature, making it perfect for unwinding, recharging, and simply enjoying some leisurely time. If I have the chance, I would definitely love to stay here again 😊.

We were very happy with everything the hotel provided. If there is shuttle bus between the hotel and kinugawaonsen station, it would be perfect for foreign tourists who travel by train and bus.Buffet dinner is wonderful.