I chose this ryokan for my first trip with my parents, which I paid for myself. And I think choosing this ryokan was an excellent decision.
First off, all the staff members were incredibly kind. They explained every service available at the ryokan one by one, and even though my Japanese pronunciation and other things were probably lacking, they listened patiently until the end. If I asked them to repeat something, they would. They were so kind that it made me vow to be even more polite in return.
While I didn't do much at the ryokan, here are a few things worth mentioning:
> We did not use a room with a private hot spring bath.
1. **Hot Springs (Onsen)**
The hot springs are divided into women's baths, men's baths, and family baths. You can use the family baths without a reservation; just go in. It was written that you only need to leave a sign indicating it's occupied.
2. **Adding Breakfast**
You can request breakfast at check-in. They'll ask for your desired date and time (from 7:30 AM, 8:00 AM, or 8:30 AM), explain the price, ask how many people it's for, and if there are any allergies to be careful of. Then, at your reserved time, you'll go to the designated area, and they'll guide you to the breakfast dining area. Breakfast cost 3,300 yen per person.
* *After breakfast, which was a delicious kaiseki meal, they hand you a phone and tell you to call them if you want coffee and dessert.*
3. **Taxi Reservation to Yufuin Station**
Since we had to go to Yufuin Station early in the morning, I asked at check-in if a taxi reservation was possible. They said they would arrange it if I just told them the desired time, and thanks to them, we had a smooth ride. This service is free of charge.
* *However, you need to go to the parking lot to meet the driver and get in.*
4. **Cleaning Time**
After breakfast, the staff member who guided us asked what time would be best for room cleaning. I told them my preferred time.
This ryokan created so many wonderful memories that I truly believe Yufuin is only worth visiting for this place, if only you have the money and time. Its location is also excellent, right in front of Floral Village and Yuno-Tsubo Street, offering plenty to see. The walk to Yufuin Station is about 1.1km but not boring at all. I wholeheartedly recommend this place! 👍👍👍👍👍
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