Yusaya Japanese Inn

217. Yusaya Japanese Inn, Naruko Onsen An ambiguous place. I was drawn by the unique bath on a hill across the road from the ryokan, available only to guests. Stayed overnight with meals. Breakfast and dinner were generous; they gave a double portion without any issues. Dinner featured an exquisite persimmon dish. The room was spacious, but the toilet was shared in the hallway (only a sink in the room). There were some service issues: - It was cold in the room in November; the heater tried its best but shut off at night on a timer; - Breakfast started 40 minutes later than scheduled; - Couldn't leave luggage after checkout since the ryokan was closed the next day; - The shared hallway toilet situation; - Hectic checkout process for guests; - The unique hilltop bath is effectively accessible for only 25 minutes + 5 minutes to walk up/down. They give a free pass to the neighboring public onsen. The ryokan itself has been featured in magazines. The unique hilltop bath is effectively private. Each room gets a 30-minute slot (including time to walk up and down). Water in the bath is clear, temperature 39. The view of the trees is gorgeous. The bath was rightly highlighted in the magazine. The first set of indoor baths for men was available until 21:00 (M/F switch happens then). Breathing inside is comfortable. Two baths with clear, slightly cloudy water. The main bath at 40-41 and a small polygonal bath at 36. The second set consists of one old-school indoor bath, breathing is fine. Water is clear, slightly cloudy, temperature 42-43. The place has its drawbacks, but also unique features. In any case, I'd consider it as an accommodation option in Naruko Onsen. If staying multiple nights, as a nominee for one of them - it looks even more compelling.