Ogawaya Onsen Hotel

During our stay, our room smelled strongly of cigarette smoke. We later discovered that it was a smoking room, but this was only indicated in very small text on the booking page. There was no mention of it in the confirmation email or at check-in. We were also unable to enjoy the hot spring because of loud construction noise right outside. Although the construction was not the hotel's fault, the staff showed no empathy and simply gave us a standard response. What disappointed us most was not these issues themselves, but the lack of customer care. A sincere apology or a little understanding would have made a big difference. Breakfast was also disappointing. Overall, this was one of the worst value-for-money hotels I've stayed at in years.

It is better not to use Raktoa, a relaxation area inside the stream. I used a 30-minute service but the actual service time was 27 minutes. When I tell them that it is less than 30 minutes, they say it is only 30 minutes, including the consent form and other procedures. Is that possible? Is that possible? Of course, there is no such description in the 30-minute course description. I've never been to such a petty store with a massage I've used before.

Booked via JAPANiCAN for a 2 nights stay. Pre check-in communication wasn’t too good. There was no option to communicate directly with the hotel via JAPANiCAN. When I asked for assistance from JAPANiCAN to convey my room requests and assistance for restaurant reservations - Response was they don’t do that. But at least they found the hotel’s email address for me. First attempt with the email didn’t get a response. A while later I wrote a simplified version, which I was relieved to receive a response. Shuttle pick-up/drop off at Gero Station Good mini bus with luggage storage at the back. Check-in We arrived 1 hour before check-in. Had their free OJ and coffee plus soaked in the foot Onsen to recuperate 😁 then went out for a short while. We were given a room on the 7th floor - top floor of Hogetsuso (the furthest from the main building). Room Was informed by the hotel my room isn’t a renovated room. However, I’m very happy with its condition. The walkway from the lift to my room gives off a welcoming and good vibe. The passageway from the main building to Hogetsuso is a bit dingy but not too bad. Room is large Japanese style. View was not bad - View of the town center and canal. So happy with the mattress - Really comfortably thick, not those old thin futon. There are of course more bedding stored in the cupboard. Breakfast Quite extensive. Onsen Nice. Tried Sen which gives off luxury vibes. But I always prefer open air bath, which is lovely here. Location Main reason why I chose Ogawaya. I’d also shortlisted 2 other ryokans beside here. However, they are not as central despite costing more. So glad of my choice. A konbini just few steps away, bus stop, majority of restaurants… Conclusion Definitely I would repeat my stay at Ogawaya if I ever return to Gero Onsen. Staffs were very friendly and some English spoken.