Sakahijiri Nikko, located in a tranquil onsen town north of Nikko city, offers an idyllic escape for those seeking solitude amidst stunning natural landscapes. Its picturesque setting provides an excellent base for off-the-beaten-path hiking adventures, complemented by delightful onsens that add to the serene environment. While reaching the remote location can be challenging due to limited public transportation options, particularly for travelers without a car, the serene and peaceful surroundings make the effort worthwhile for guests seeking a quiet retreat.
The culinary offerings at Sakahijiri Nikko are a standout feature, capturing the essence of traditional Japanese hospitality. Guests frequently praise the exceptional quality and presentation of the meals, especially the kaiseki dinner and traditional Japanese breakfasts. These culinary experiences are considered significant highlights of a stay, though dining reservations should be made in advance to avoid any issues. The overall dining experience is highly recommended for those wanting to savor authentic Japanese cuisine.
Rooms at Sakahijiri Nikko provide a spacious and comfortable atmosphere, appreciated by guests for their large size and traditional Japanese style. The inclusion of amenities such as massage chairs adds to the relaxation. Although some rooms show signs of wear, they are generally well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable environment that complements the healing feel of the mountain village surroundings.
Cleanliness is generally praised, with rooms and common areas frequently noted as tidy and well-kept. While inconsistencies in certain areas suggest the need for improved upkeep, most guests have positive impressions of cleanliness during their stay. The attentive and hospitable staff further enhance the hotel experience, known for their friendliness and warm professionalism. Their efforts provide a welcoming atmosphere, with staff prepared to assist and offer valuable recommendations.
However, Wi-Fi connectivity poses consistent challenges, particularly in rooms and upper floors, with signal strength often unreliable. Despite this, the traditional ambiance and comfort of the futons and tatami rooms contribute positively to the overall stay. While there are minor concerns regarding the firmness of mattresses and bed heights, the rooms deliver authenticity and cultural immersion that enrich the guest experience. Overall, Sakahijiri Nikko offers a memorable retreat into traditional Japanese hospitality amidst tranquil natural beauty.
Located in Nikko's most popular onsen area, Kinugawa, Asaya hotel first opened its doors in 1888. This 5-star ryokan offers exquisite facilities and high quality of service to all guests, while also allowing them to experience the beauty of Nikko and traditional Japan. Apart from the excellent facilities, the hotel also offers breathtaking views of the natural landscape that surrounds the hotel.
Summary of reviews
Asaya offers a remarkable retreat nestled amidst picturesque mountains and serene waters, ideal for those seeking tranquility away from urban hustle. Although somewhat remote, its location next to the Kinugawa River provides breathtaking natural views, especially enjoyed from the open-air baths, which capture the surrounding beauty. Guests appreciate the expansive, luxurious rooms that blend traditional Japanese style with modern comforts, offering spectacular mountain and river views. Cleanliness is a cornerstone of Asaya's appeal, with meticulous attention to detail across its facilities, ensuring a pristine and relaxing environment.
The culinary offerings at Asaya are outstanding, with both breakfast and dinner buffets earning high praise for their abundant variety and exceptional quality. The breakfast buffet impresses with its customizable omelets and unlimited salmon roe, garnering admiration despite minor limitations in Western options. Dinner is celebrated for its delightful array of Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisines, alongside luxurious items like steak and crab. Dining, paired with the breathtaking natural setting, becomes a memorable experience enhanced by the attentive and polite staff, whose hospitality is a key contributor to the overall satisfaction of guests.
On top of the dining and room comforts, Asaya provides extraordinary spa facilities, including rooftop hot springs that offer stunning panoramic views and a serene bathing experience. The serene ambience and immaculate facilities make it a destination many guests wish to revisit. The spa complements relaxation with numerous bathing options, such as saunas and cold baths, further enhancing the soothing retreat. This luxurious haven provides a diverse and indulgent escape that harmonizes traditional Japanese style with modern luxury, delivering an enchanting experience that surpasses expectations.
Kinugawa Royal Hotel stands out for its prime riverside location along the scenic Kinugawa River, providing breathtaking views and convenient access to many local attractions like Kinutateiwa Bridge, Kinugawa Onsen Ropeway, Tobu World Square and Edo Wonderland. Guests particularly enjoyed the picturesque setting and proximity to nature, making it ideal for leisurely walks and sightseeing.
The hotel's dining experiences received high praise, particularly the buffet-style breakfast and dinner, which offered a diverse array of Japanese and Western dishes. The all-you-can-drink alcohol option was a notable perk, adding great value to meals. Guests found the food to be delicious and plentiful with the morning and evening buffets contributing positively to their overall stay.
Rooms at Kinugawa Royal Hotel generally provided a comfortable and spacious experience, especially those on the top floors with picturesque views. Many guests appreciated the traditional Japanese ambiance, complete with futons and ample amenities. However, reviews on room quality were mixed; while some found the accommodations clean and well-maintained, others reported issues with cleanliness, outdated facilities and occasional bugs, likely due to the riverside location.
Staff at the hotel were consistently praised for their friendliness and excellent service. The front desk staff were particularly noted for their prompt and courteous responses to issues, enhancing the overall guest experience. The attentive and helpful nature of the hotel employees left a positive impression on many visitors.
Overall, Kinugawa Royal Hotel offers a scenic, convenient and cost-effective base for travelers exploring the historic and natural beauty of Kinugawa. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in terms of cleanliness and facility upkeep, the beautiful setting, diverse dining options and attentive staff make it a solid choice for those seeking both comfort and value.