The place was super welcoming, the person that guided us rehearsed a whole english tour to get us acquainted with the complex layout of the place (almost maze-like but in a nice, charming way?) and generally the staff was super accommodating of any of our needs. Even though we went for the most traditional experience with futons and whatnot, the toilet was still one of Japan's super technological ones so that was nice! There's a lovely café next to the ryokan that sells tons of cute souvenirs, however they are close on some days so make sure to check when you're staying. Make sure to ask them to call a cab on the way out as none of the major apps work in Shiroishi (TaxiGo,Uber,Didi etc), cost to go back to the station for about ¥2300 for us (it's been a while so my memory might not be great). Also just make sure to make some time to explore Shiroishi itself, the castle and city are very nice!

Admittedly I'm a very picky eater and the meals were a bit too particular for me, my friend loved them though so it's definitely a me problem. The place is very far out from the city so aside from walking to Kokeshi village expect to stay indoors most of your time.

The staff were extremely accommodating and nice! They had someone on the team that could speak English and helped us book Taxis to and from the Ryokan. I was kinda sad about not getting food so make sure you get the dinner and breakfast here! The Onsen was magical and had an old fashion feel and the facilities are very nice. Definitely worth the cost!

There is nowhere nearby that has anything for dinner after 6pm. Not their fault, just not great

Our overall stay was amazing, we stayed two nights. The people who own and run the place are so friendly, the staff are so courteous and helpful. The food was absolutely delicious. It was an amazing experience for my wife and I.

Unfortunately the private onsen was out of use during our period of stay due to some earthquake strengthening work.

Staff is really nice, the vibe is great and food was wonderful.

As a Canadian, I was sweating just by walking from onsen back to my room (so I had shower three times; once before I went to onsen, once at the onsen since I was sweating and once more when I got back to my room). Keep in mind, everything is within the ryokan (indoors). Another thing is some parts of the room are dusty, especially the retired AC that’s by the window. Also bugs everywhere. I was about to noz off and a bug fell on my face… overall I found about 5-6 bugs of all sizes.

We loved the traditional room and the private bath. Staff were exceptional

Our heater broke some point through the night so it was a little cold when we got up but we let the staff know in the morning and they fixed it by the time we got back. Only a cafe in the area for food but the hotel does provide great meals

The staff and owners were very helpful and accommodating for our family of 4. The futons and pillows were really comfortable. It was nice having our own private dining room and dinner and breakfast were always nice!

Very kind staff and so accommodating with our limited Japanese. The style of this ryokan is so nice and dinner was really wonderful. We also enjoyed the private onsen since my husband has tattoos.

My only issue was that the futon wasn't the most comfortable, but that is likely personal preference.

A beautiful Japanese Ryokan, the meals were delicious and served in you own private meal room. The onsen was great, such a lovely property I would definitely recommend staying for a couple nights and be treated to a real Japanese experience. Ski fields only a short drive away.

Food is superb, Staff very friendly and helpful and the hot spring simple but authentic. We would definitely come back to experience winter in this ryokan.

Nothing

friendly staff and one of them knows English. An old-school Japanese hotel but the room and the facility are clean. The food is delicious! Most importantly, you can have another bowl of rice without additional charge.

nothing to see in the neighborhoods