Okukinu-onsenkyou Hatcyo-no-yu

Extremely remote (nearly a 3 hour bus ride from Kinegawa Onsen Train station into the winding mountains) which was both an adventure and unnerving. Made to feel like a foreigner with little help in understanding the cultural norms as a newcomer to the onsen experience. The in-suite onsen option was incredible, providing both privacy and ability to enjoy the experience as a newcomer free of the "ritual" imposed but not well explained for use of the public hot pools. Hatcho No Yu was ultimately a memory for a lifetime but came with a less than supportive interface with staff who treated us like we didnt belong.

Very far from Kinugawa hot spring station, 1.5 hours local bus and 30min shuttle bus by this ryokan. We went to this place for 2-days family reunion at early April. We enjoyed absolutely fantastic Japanese dish at every evening and morning. I cannot admire enough these delicious foods which are not soy-sauce-full, Kanto-like taste. On the second day, menus differed from the first day (dinners and breakfast). Rooms and the lounge are also comfy. We spent plenty of time In the lounge, enjoyed reading (as we planned), "gomokunarabe", and free massage chair. There was also a "Shogi-ban". Even though the snow was piling up outside, the wood stove warmed the lounge enough. The hotel stuff (most of them are from other Asian countries) work enthusiastically. We shall return!