Shiobara Onsen Yama No Yado Shimofujiya

I could smell sulfur even before arriving at the inn. Diagonally behind the inn, there was a remnant of the Oyatsu eruption, spewing sulfur gas. The inn is a member of the Hiyu no Kai (Secret Hot Springs Association), and a Hiyu no Kai lantern was hanging. Before check-in, they offered matcha green tea and Japanese sweets, and the landlady greeted guests, making me feel welcome. The room was beautiful, with a modern Japanese design, and the Wi-Fi was easy to connect to. Having two keys was a great help. Wildflowers and lilies were displayed throughout the building and in the bathroom and dressing room. The open-air bath is located about 50 meters from the inn's entrance. There is no washing area within the bath. The water here is clear, and it appears to be circulated with water from Shiobara Onsen. The open-air bath is not very large, but it has a forest atmosphere and the autumn leaves and other greenery are beautiful. The indoor bath is cloudy white, and when you enter, it feels like flour is floating around your body. It also sinks to the bottom. There is a walkway in the middle of the bathroom to prevent tripping. Such thoughtfulness is appreciated. Dinner was served in a separate dining area. All dishes were freshly prepared except for the appetizers and hors d'oeuvres. There was a wide selection, and everything was beautifully presented and delicious. I was particularly impressed with the whole trout. I've had whole trout grilled many times, but this was probably my first time trying sashimi. Breakfast was the same, with the tofu and hot spring water* rich in flavor and made with a focus on local ingredients (there is a breakfast menu as well). The landlady saw us off after we checked out and was very attentive. The only negative thing was that when we checked out, the bathing tax and alcohol at dinner could only be paid in cash; neither cards nor PayPay were accepted.

Upon arrival, we were immediately greeted with matcha tea. The hot spring water was cloudy, the bathroom was new and clean, and the food was delicious and a feast for the eyes. This was one of the most satisfying lodgings, and I will definitely return.

It was the lowest level of correspondence among the ryokan I stayed in the past. The management as an inn is not done, the employees are disjointed, and the basics of service are not completely done, especially the young man (manager?) at the reception desk. There is no morning see-off. It was an inn that I knew well that no matter how good the hot springs and appearance were, a ryokan without hospitality would end up like this. This hotel is definitely not recommended for those who are looking for a good Japanese inn.