Yufuin Bessou Shikisai Hotel

We have been to Japan so many times and have been very impressed by Japanese hospitality. However, this was the first time we felt so unwelcome. The front desk lady did not have any emotions on her face and she gave the impression that she was unhappy to see us. She sounded really pissed (just short of slapping my hand) when I asked whether we can take the toothbrushes. The toothbrushes were complimentary amenities for their guests and she asked us not to touch it only after we are settled and about to leave the room then the other staff told us to just feel free take the toothbrushes. They were extremely rigid for the meal times. There were nine of us in the group. For breakfast they were only offering us two timeslot for the breakfast however being in the onsen town, I would want to take a bath before coming for breakfast. During check-in we were told that the group wont be allowed to enter the restaurant unless all 9 of us arrive. I was pretty upset that I cancelled my breakfast so that the rest of the entourage could enter next morning. But the next morning, they allowed them to enter minutes apart. I wish they would be more thoughtful and took some extra step to at least try to explain to me that I can be late a little bit late instead of canceling the breakfast when I told them that because I want to use the onsen. Instead of a flat NO in the beginning. Sometimes the tiny extra mile will bring a smile. Language is a barrier i understand but to me this is simply unwelcoming us. We like to come to Japan because the people take pride in what they do during dinner we also found a strand of hair in the food. This was extremely surprising. They did offer a plate of tempura as apology, but this was a little bit uncomfortable by the standard that we have been going through during all our trips in Japan. However, I have praises for their service Staff who tried very hard to explain to us the meal The onsen and the rooms in need of some changes. While I understand the rustic feel of the onsen they would like to give to the guest, however it does not give a very safe and welcoming feeling I have been to other ryokans that also give rustic vibes, but this one gave an extremely rundown vibe. The floor of the rooms are also very ‘sticky’ This is extremely unfortunate as I really enjoyed the onsen water but the whole environment just did not make me feel relaxed. The location although a little further in, it is very scenic. Such a pity that we did not have a good experience.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. This would suit travelers who drive, with free carpark. It is about 15 mins walk downhill to Yufuin mainstreet. The outdoor hotsprings were good and well maintained. When we were there on 7 Feb 2023 it wasn’t crowded so it was really relaxing. I bathed in the evening then next morning again at the different outdoor one (there were two). The breakfast was good with a Japanese set together with free flow of juices and coffee. Reception has good service too. We didn’t try the dinner there but had dinner at the mainstreet. The room was large for three guests with 3 single beds and very comfortable.

Stayed 2 nights at this hotel. Hotel is located slightly further from the main shopping street , no issue with parking space. Reception does not speak much english, but they've prepared a list in english on the instructions ie check out time, onsen etc Room is spacious and comfortable. Bathroom is big too The outdoor onsen is on the first floor, entrance next to the reception. The changing room is small, only one dressing table with 2 air dryers. Not for big crowd Onsen itself is nice, temperature is just right. Breakfast selection is the usual japanese/ western mix buffet. Nothing special