Our stay at Shikishima-so was absolutely wonderful. We visited as a family and we were all deeply impressed by the warm hospitality. The kaiseki dinner was a true highlight: beautifully presented, authentic, and delicious. Every course felt like a piece of art. The traditional Japanese breakfast was also very enjoyable, with a nice variety of dishes and a peaceful setting to start the day. One of the highlights was the peacefulness — we almost had the feeling of being alone in the hotel, which made the experience feel even more exclusive and serene. The location was ideal for unwinding, surrounded by nature and quiet, yet still easily accessible. The onsen was clean and relaxing, and the room was spacious, comfortable, and decorated in elegant traditional style. The staff were incredibly kind and attentive throughout our stay.

There was honestly nothing we didn’t like — everything was perfect for us. From the warm welcome to the serene atmosphere and the impeccable attention to detail, we felt genuinely cared for throughout our stay. It’s rare to experience such comfort and calm in a hotel setting.

It was hard initially to really get a sense of Shikishimaso from the photo of the building itself, so we went with no expectations. Appearances can definitely be deceiving! Inside, the hotel was absolutely beautiful, staff were so helpful and welcoming and there was a lift, which if you know the location of this place, is impressive (for me anyway.) The rooms were spacious and comfortable and they had the usual amenities - samue to wear down to the onsen, all bathing products etc. We booked for dinner and breakfast and both were fabulous! Dishes were tasty, beautiful to look at and service impeccable. Because the hotel was located right next to the river, it was so peaceful and relaxing to enjoy our meal with such a spectacular view. Largely accessible by car, you can walk to the spectacular Hagoromo Falls from the hotel, and it is also close to Asahidake mountain as well.

Nothing! What a great place! Don't let other reviews online fool you - this was a lovely ryokan to stay at.

First of all, I have to point out that the service at Shikishimasou was exceptional. I forgot to book dinner and arrived in the evening after a long bike ride. I thought I had to resort to eating snacks I brought along to hold me over until breakfast, completely my fault of course. Even though I couldn't book the dinner course at this late hour, I was offered freshly prepared onigiri, tea and and miso soup, which were brought to my room at a time I could decide upon. The interactions with the staff were very pleasant and I felt welcome here. The Onsen was beautiful and not crowded when I stayed there, and the room I booked was very spacious with a private toilet and a comfortable futon and a small dining table (floor-sitting). The breakfast course was absolutely delightful. I addition to the meals that are brought to your table, you can add complimentary items from the buffet to your meal. The view over the cliff, the river and the trees above in the fog during breakfast was beautiful. This place is in a fairly remote location (especially if you're not driving), which only adds to the beauty and serene atmosphere.

As we drove in we were freaking out about the location and how beautiful it was. It is secluded in a really cool canyon with huge cliffs on both sides. The staff was literally a dream. We walked into the room and our jaws hit the floor! It was SO cool and clean and spacious. The food was AMAZING! The onsen was really hot but delightful. There is a really cool waterfall like .8 miles up the canyon you can snowshoe too. If you do not stay here at least a couple nights on your trip, you are missing out for sure. 20 min drive to Asahidake Ropeway. 30min drive to Higashikawa which has shops and restaurants.

cant think of anything

At the end of the road lies this unassuming hotel in a fabulous setting. The walls of gorge rise steeply on all sides, the river roars below. Inside there is a warm welcome and generous hospitality. The cooking was excellent with western inflections, the service charming. A warm lounge provided space to relax and enjoy drinks and snacks. And of course the walk to the waterfall was stunning amidst the autumnal colours.......this was truly what Rivendell must have appeared to the fellowship

Spending only one night here

I reserved the suite with private onsen for 2 nights , breakfast and dinner included for my boyfriend and i. First of all i must say the staff is very kind because we arrived later than the checking in hour (we had problems with car renting), but the staff kindly waited for us for dinner. And oh boy , we were not prepared for the meal that was waiting for us. It was absolument the best food we had in japan . Each morning and evening we tasted traditionnal japanese delicacies. There was so much different things to try, it was delicous but also stunning to see the presentation. Of course the room was amazing as well. Incledible view of the mountains from our private onsen. The beds were fluffy and the living room was cosy. Also, I arrived at the hotel with a bit of a skin rash but I think the onsen water healed it...!! What can i say more ! I will still talk about this experience when i'm old i think, it was the best hotel i stayed at. Thank you so much to the kind staff !!

The bedroom ceiling light was a bit harsh, but it was not a big deal. We just moved the light from the living room in the bedroom and we had a cosy atmosphere.

The staff, the room, the food. The ryokan is 70 years old and is tucked away in the mountains. There were other ryokans near the property in the past, but this is the only one standing today. It’s really a gem and we were grateful to have found it. The food was beautifully presented and was very enjoyable at the end of the day after hiking. We stayed in the suite with its own onsen. The private onsen is really only big enough for one person and so my husband and I took turns using it. You also have access to the larger onsen downstairs. The room is a very generous size with a separate bedroom. As I mentioned, the building is 70 years old so do not expect any modern decor. It is authentic and very cozy. The staff are wonderful, kind, and very accommodating.

The best onsen experience, with beautiful outdoor and indoor space Friendly and helpful staff, who helped us arrange ski rentals and transit via the hotel shuttle Beautiful location, with views of the river and the canyon, with close proximity to Asahidake mountain Wonderful filling breakfast and dinner, with elaborate presentation

Not much - the stay here went beyond our expectations, and we hope to return someday!

Staff are very responsive and attentive. We gave a feedback on the cold tempura and they apologised and gave us a fresh plate the following day. It seemed the feedback reached all the staff as they took the feedback very seriously. We are very impressed with that attitude.

The room is a little dated. It could do with a little upgrading and renovation.

Wonderfully maintained and new feeling place. Has a greatly tasteful traditional feel to the interior, while it feeling pristine and spotless. Staff are very friendly and attentive. Food is wonderful and very plentiful.

Far away from most conveniences. But well connected by car, and the remoteness lends itself to a feeling of peacefulness.