Bansyoukaku Shikishima

The facilities were neat and clean with an old-fashioned feel, and the meals were satisfactory for everyone. The surroundings are quiet and I think this is the best ryokan for relaxation.

The newly renovated spacious rooms and the half open-air bath are the selling points. The hotel has all the amenities so you can relax in your room. It's far from the so-called hot spring town so it's difficult to walk around, but there's no need to go outside. It was a cold day, but we were able to close the window of the half open-air bath, which was very convenient. There is a step of over 10cm between the washroom and the living room (bedroom), which may be dangerous if you're not used to it. Meals were served in groups in semi-private rooms surrounded by large lattices in the main room, so it was nice and relaxing. Of course, the food was good too. The staff were very friendly, but I personally felt they were too kind, which is a difficult thing to do in the service industry! There are two air conditioners installed in the room, which are for when they break down.