Shibukawa accommodation from AU$125

Charming traditional hospitality

The hotel is close to a bus station and has parking right out front. It is a street away from the Ikaho stone steps but there is a forest and mountain/hill between them. You can walk a path through it, it is a bit steep if you have mobility issues but if you are fit then no problem. Rooms are spacious and traditional, airconditioning as well. Had a toilet as well and bath and shower but I only used the public bath. Their public baths are very nice, as usual, one side is a bit nicer but they switch genders daily so you can experience both. The food was amazing, I was wondering if doing the half board would be worth it and I am glad I did it. Lots of food in the area but this was the best selection of different kinds of Japanese food I have seen at a hotel. Food was delicious as well. Not a lot of English speaking people in this town, keep that in mind. The Onsen at the hotel have clear water, if you want to experience the "golden" (red) water with the iron in it then you need to visit one of the ones in town that offer that. I did and I am glad I experienced it. Cost was a bit higher than some other ones I was looking at but I think I made the right choice. The town tourist area is quite small and could be seen in an afternoon if you have a good pace, the bus transportation is more of your limitation in making this a day trip unless you plan carefully.

Hotel is a bit dated but the services were excellent. Maybe that's why the traditional standard can be upkeep. Dinner was great too. Onsen is authentic although not hot enough. We loved the hotel overall. The area is a bit quiet and not much to see but was a great getaway spot.