A mixed bag of a hotel. On the one hand, the location is excellent, close to Takachiho Gorge. On the other hand, it's a 15-20 minute walk uphill along a winding road, and about 20-25 minutes uphill to the bus center.
Pros:
- Price
- Shochu tasting
- Hot springs available
- Close proximity to the main attraction
- Kids' area available
- There's a smoking area inside the hotel, but it's not covered (you'll get wet if it rains)
Cons:
- The hotel is old, and it shows
- There are many spiders in the hotel, which is understandable given its location. Bed bugs might also fly in.
- The tatami mats are old, with huge gaps between them.
- No convenience stores or supermarkets nearby.
- Tattoos are not allowed in the public baths.
Friendly staff and clean lodging.
We booked half board which was worthwhile as the food quality was great and especially when restaurants close early within the area, saved us looking for dinner. However, there are a few time slots we need to abide to, which is fine as attractions usually are closed by late afternoon anyway.
There is onsen in this accommodation, but it's not big. Enclosed onsen with no external views, and the water has some medical component added thus making the water reddish which may deter guests not accustomed to the color.
The Ryokan location is convenient for walking to a few attractions (for those who enjoy walking about 15-30mins to either attraction), which include Takachiho Kagura performance (pre-booking required), Takachiho Gorge, Takachiho Amaterasu Railway - scenic train ride.
Do note the train rides cannot be pre-booked, and end by 3PM in the afternoon.
And Takachiho Gorge Boat Rental should be pre-booked, with time slot bookings open 7 days before.