rae__ne
Google
we tried searching for other hotels closer to the station, but they were all either fully booked or out of our budget. fortunately, we found this gem located within a 15-minute walk from the station and right across a bus stop.
we were able to communicate directly with the staff regarding our check-in time, who were super responsive through Agoda chat as well as phone, and could speak both Japanese and English fluently.
it wasn't crowded during our stay; even had the entire bath (onsen) to myself. the amenities provided, such as facial wash, cleanser, and lotion, were plentiful, and the place was very clean. you can bathe almost 24 hours a day, except during the cleaning time.
there was also a free-flow drink bar with tea & coffee and a microwave available, since the hotel doesn't provide dinner, you have the option to heat your bento. the nearest konbini is within a 4-minute walk.
as expected from a traditional Japanese inn, the walls are pretty thin. there was one instance where I could hear somebody snoring at night, although that person's room was three rooms away from ours. but other than that, no complaints. the rooms were amazing, along with the kotatsu, which was a savior during winter weather. we could even see snow from our room windows; it was a perfect experience, to say the least.
on a side note, we tried filming TikTok in front of the inn, and the staff came out. we thought he was going to warn us about not filming, but instead, he encouraged us and even recommended prettier spots to film like the garden next to the inn. such a good sport.