2-Star Hotels in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan

Most of the reviews are outdated so I thought I'd give an updated review. For one thing, there is WiFi (I have informed the landlady that the website indicates otherwise). This place is a traditional-style inn. You'll be sleeping in a futon (some Google-fu should help you know how to use one), use two pairs of slippers (one for moving around the house, one exclusively for the toilet) and will also bathe in a Japanese-style shared bathroom. The front gate and bathroom close at 10pm, which is not an issue as everywhere in Nikko closes early and it's too dark to hike outdoors (in early Autumn). We loved using the onsen to relax after a day of strolling around and hiking, and the delicious Japanese-style breakfast was lovingly prepared by a friendly old granny. The premises are old but well-maintained. Toilets, bathroom and onsen were great but we were there during off-peak season so we didn't need to share so much. Should we return to Nikko, this place will be our first choice!

It was the perfect place for me to reset and refresh. The hostel is surrounded by beautiful nature and has a hot spring, just what I needed in a getaway from the big city. The common space is designed beautifully and has two very comfortable kitchens, big fridges, and everything you might need for a comfortable stay. The staff was very friendly and helpful, one night the hostel even arranged a hot pot dinner. First I stayed in a standard room but I ended up extending my stay here, this time in the women's only dormitory. Both the private room and the dormitory room were very comfortable and had everything I needed. Long walks was just what I needed but it looks like there's quite a lot to do around if you drive just a little bit, so I would recommend coming by car or renting one at the train station. I can't wait for my next visit here.

I stayed here for a business trip. I was prepared for a very small 4.5 tatami mat Japanese-style room, but it was surprisingly cozy and felt just like my own room. The toilet, located at the back of the room, was very clean and pleasant to use. The onsen (hot spring bath) was also empty on a weekday, so I had it all to myself, which was great for soothing the fatigue from a lot of walking. I wonder if it would be packed on weekends? Most of the shops around the station closed abruptly around 5 PM, leaving no dining options, but having a convenience store right across the street was a huge lifesaver. The breakfast was also uncrowded on a weekday, allowing me to enjoy it leisurely. It was Japanese-style and healthy, which I appreciated. Given it's a station in a tourist area and one of the more affordable options around, I'd definitely like to stay here again if I have the chance.

The private baths are first come, first served, so you never know when one will become available. I wish there was a system where you could reserve a time during peak hours. There are times when the shower doesn't work when the bath water temperature is adjusted. The breakfast had a wide variety of options, and the curry was especially delicious!

We were hosted by an elderly couple, and his family members. They were super cute, friendly and polite. It's like their small family business, ground floor was a western restaurant, second floor onwards were all the guest rooms. They know a bit of English, so the communication wise no issue at all. What we love about this stay is that other than the room with gorgeous lake view, the host was super helpful to allow us to store our luggage with them even way before our check-in timing. Furthermore he even offer to send us to the laundry shop, when we just casually ask him about the laundry. What actually surprised me the most, was that he even FETCH us from the laundry shop after we were done. Will definitely come back to this place again if I'm in Nikko! Thumbs up! Super host!! 😁

Very good hotel, except that the road is a bit difficult to find, the room is super big, the toilet is also very big, the bed is also a hard bed, very good, the grandfather who provides the service is very kind, like one

It was excellent in the location right next to the station and local shops. The room was clean as well as the toilets and shower - I wish that the rooms were warm - i was cold while in the rooms

What an amazing place to stay - Kas and his wife made us extremely welcome and provided excellent restaurant recommendations as well as places to visit. The rooms were spotlessly clean and the breakfast was excellent (with juice, yogurt, ham and omelette and fruit, plus toast and tea/coffee). The bedrooms are large and the bed are comfy. The shower was also super clean. It is uphill from Nikko Tobu station but you can easily get a taxi from the station for 1,000/1,100 (£5/6) which saves carrying the luggage. Short walk to Kirifuri waterfall which is beautiful and if you’re lucky you’ll get to see the monkeys along the way. I couldn’t recommend more highly and look forward to coming back in the future!

Honestly one of my best stays in a while. Felt hospitable, comfortable, snd connected to nature. It feels very mom/pop kind of place which means you dont have tge newest or most common things, but you have options. 10/10 would recommend and stay again!

What a great stay we had at Nikko Stay House Arai. The lovely owner was so very helpful, explaining all there’s to do and how to move around Nikko. She also offered a free breakfast (she can accommodate vegetarian), which was generous and delicious. Tons of fruits, an egg, a chicken skewer, toast and coffee or tea. Not that this is a home with multiple rooms and shared bathroom (2) and one shower. Only 3-4 rooms (depending on configuration) so wasn’t an issue to use. This was a great stay in Nikko, walking distance to the train station and the sights.