If you’re pilgrimaging to Mashiko for the ceramics and ceramic history- this is the place to stay. The Japanese meals were also incredible and the staff in the dining hall (be sure to make reservations- be aware that the few restaurants in town a mile away close early and taxi service apps don’t work in Mashiko) - the front desk staff was also extremely patient and helpful. There is very little English speaking in the countryside, but the people try hard to help, learn a few words of Japanese and use translation apps! The other inns are n the far side of town, but Mashikokan is walkable to the main roadif you’re in good shape and don’t walk after dark - advice: rent their bicycles for the day to see the sights - really lovely farmlands and wildlife spotting - bring mosquito repellent!

Would have been nice to have snack options in the lobby shop - and sad that the waterfall at the onsen was turned off (yes, it looks like a very real and beautiful waterfall but its flow is controlled by the facilities, we witnessed it turned on briefly for a visiting group, but then immediately shut off again- plenty of rainfall happened so not sure why it was off) also really wish the outside mineral hotspring bath didn’t have chlorine in it - but it’s a peaceful and beautiful soak early in the morning and after dark when the frogs are croaking!

Very friendly and helpful staff and the onsen was a bonus treat. They helped me with my bags, rented me a bike, ordered a taxi for me even though their english was not great they were very kind. Rooms are huge. Old fashioned but in a charming way. Kettles and fridges in the room, baths and nice big beds.

A bit far from Mashiko town but i rented a bike with a motor which made it easy to zip in and out in 5 -8 minutes or so. My only gripe was that when I asked for breakfast and dinner they said there was no space left for any day, I didn't realise I had to book in advance. Mashiko had nothing open the first day i arrived as it was Sunday and I basically had to go to bed without supper. I poked my head in the restaurant and there were empty tables so I am sure they could have squeezed me in. Dinner did sound expensive though. So I would say secure your food options before you go, there aren't any convenience stores in Mashiko that I saw and restaurants close early. There are fridges in the rooms and vending machines for drinks.

Absolutely everything was perfect. The public bath had a working sauna, hot and cold baths, and an outdoor bath, all well-maintained and very clean. The meals were delicious, visually beautiful, varied, and filling. My room was very clean and spacious, and the futon were thick, well-padded, and extremely comfortable to sleep on. The staff were super helpful, and the servers at meals were very sweet and helped me figure out what I was eating.

This was probably a language issue, but I got locked out of the hotel! I was asked to leave my key at the desk when I went into town, but when I came back midday, the hotel lobby was closed! I was able to find an alternate entrance and a very apologetic staff member who helped me get my key, but I wish the English check-in materials had mentioned this, because I would not have left my key if I had known the lobby closed. I was the only guest around so I assume there was some way for Japanese-speaking guests to know the lobby hours--but I definitely felt like a bumbling foreigner trying to break into the dark lobby!

The staff was amazing, very kind and helpful, they went the extra mile for us and we were very thankful! We loved our room which was very spacious and a private onsen in the beautiful garden. Super clean and with all we needed. Also the futon was very comfortable.

It’s a bit far from the town but we knew it already so not a problem! Also we took the shuttle bus in the morning which was perfect.

Great hot spring bath. Big room and lovely outlook of hills and forest. We were given lovely robes to wear and the staff tried very hard to help us with our poor language skills.

It did feel a bit like a Wes Anderson movie. 1960/70s styling was actually charming, but it will need a refresh. The western style beds were a bit hard.

The hotel is located just a few minute’s drive from the center strip with all the pottery shops, cafes and restaurants. Our room as well as all the facilities were clean and well taken care of. The futons were very soft and comfortable to sleep on.

The hotel was great as is, but it felt very quiet and dark at times. Especially the walkway to the onsen that is located in a separate building.

The staff went above and beyond to be helpful despite the language difference. The young lady on the front desk could not have been more helpful. It was a short taxi ride out of town, but very manageable. Accomodation was dated but clean & quiet

Hotel is 1.7 km from train and shops surrounded by nature.Staff was excellent in every aspect. Even drove me to an 7/11shop to generate a bus ticket. Daily life is getting harder due to digital changes without Japanese skills.

Quaint hotel straight out of the past with cute artwork. Staff amazing, nothing too much trouble, arranged a hire car to site see around Mashito. Food amazing also with traditional Japanese food and service. Even had massage chair in room and arranged a excellent shiatsu massage for my partner.

The onsen with waterfall view needed a bit of TLC and some minerals and less chlorine.

As a group of touring cyclists, the staff were helpful upon our arrival with suggesting where to store our bikes and assisting with check-in. The breakfast and dinner were delicious and the serving staff were very polite and helpful.