4-Star Hotels in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan

I read the mixed reviews and was concerned about my choice, particularly those which highlighted some concerns on the service, etc. Generally, it's an acceptable hotel. We met friendly and very helpful foreign staff who were sincere. I think mainly because all the staff has to multi-task from the front desk to meals etc, they may not appear very attentive. But we had a good experience with the foreign staff so far, particularly Adihadara. I am not sure if I spelt his name correctly. I call him ”Adi” in short. He was eager to help my husband with our luggage and took note of our preference for a table at the window for our meals. The property does appear aged and some apparent wear and tear but their effort to maintain it at this level of general acceptable look and feel is commendable. At the end of our two nights stay, we did have an enjoyable time to chill and relax at the hotel.

The traditional central Japanese garden with pond and fish is superbly designed and is visible once inside, from the lobby, the lounge and the dining room with all the rooms directly above (at least 3 floors). The service desk is only open for check-in from 3-6pm (English spoken), though I arrived earlier (before noon) and left my luggage & went for a walk. Unless you book meals (breakfast plus dinner combined) ahead of your stay, meals are not available due to the the need to prepare them). I stayed 3 nights but hadn't booked meals so it was too late to enjoy a meal the first day or following morning. The next 2 nights I ate there OK. I highly recommend Ikari Restaurant (5 mins walk away) as an alternative also, because the Sakahijiri meals are VERY expensive ( ¥6,600) but the Sakahijiri dinner in itself is an extraordinary experience in Japanese cuisine by a seriously skilled chef that may be worthwhile having. The rooms are spacious and with traditional Japanese elements.The town is smaller and lacks much to see for some but it was a great respite for me due to the quietness that I sought. I used the in/outdoor onsen each day too. Access from the Railway Station is an easy, generally flat, 10-15 min walk. I've read some silly complaints about a few holes in some sliding paper windows caused by careless tourist/s. Sakahijiri is so pleasing overall and restful that criticism such as this misses the point of it uniqueness.

One of the worst locations at Kinugawa Onsen area. Hidden in the mountain, no significantly beautiful view. Despite we need to pay for ”Hoshino Resort price”, unlike other cheaper hotels, we need to PAY for TAXI ourselves and getting a taxi during new year time is a terribly painful. Hotel staff lack of initiatives getting us cab instead we need to open different apps and such ... and on the way back the following day we ended up walking for 20 mins by ourselves .... Food is ok, onsen is ok, cleanliness ok, but nothing super ordinary. You can pay attention to details in decorations and inhouse services, but you can't pay attention to one of the most obvious services you HAVE TO provide to your guests, Hoshino ---- shuttle service .......

really amazing service especially the onsen the adult food. rooms are a little outdated. It did catch us off guard as it was about 1000 USD for two nights for the 3 kids and their meals were like pasta and fries. I am not sure we would have spend this money staying with kids. Better suited for adults or if money really isn't an issue spending already so much at the hotel.

the hotel is right on top of the shopping mall. we drove there and at first we cant find the access to the hotel until we found that we have to park at the mall and drag our luggage to the hotel entrance. the lobby is on the almost top floor with view. there is an onsen on the top floor. the roof is clean and beautiful. we went down to the mall to find our dinner and buy some stuff at super market. there is a 7-11 next to the entrance of the hotel. so far we had good stay there.

4.5 stars!  Property is older but extremely well maintained.  The corner western/Japanese rooms are spacious with two western beds and tatami area, single japanese bath and shower area and separate toilet area, mini fridge, tv, sitting area overlooking the river and table with four chairs as well as a massage chair!  Onsen area has both indoor and outdoor areas separate for men and women and a cold plunge as well as multiple hot baths.  Minus half a star for low staffing in the store/cafe areas (often no staff member to be found when kakigori desired), no in house lunch option and overly fatty meat on the 3rd night dinner (breakfast and dinner were LARGE and BEAUTIFUL but perhaps heavy on the yuba.  Also, shuttle to the train station is only at 10 and 11am and getting cabs is difficult.  However, would overwhelmingly recommend Nikko Senhime Monogatari!

Our room is in a traditional Japanese style. While you’re having dinner, the staff will come in and prepare the futon for you. Amenities like shampoo and conditioner are not provided in the room, so you’ll need to pick them up from the lobby on the ground floor. Yukata are available to borrow, and there’s also drinking water, both hot and cold, as well as a microwave provided on the ground floor. The hotel also offers a private onsen, which can be booked for 45 minutes per session. It costs around 2,800 yen per session, not per person. What I really liked was the breakfast and dinner buffet. The food suited my taste and there was a good variety to choose from. The only downside is that the hotel is a bit far from the train station, but there is a shuttle service from the hotel to the station in the morning, running about four times a day.

I was very impressed with my stay at Hotel Kinugawa Onsen 💙. The buffet spread for both breakfast and dinner was incredibly extensive, offering a huge variety of Japanese and other dishes. I was completely satisfied and felt it was excellent value for money. The onsen was also fantastic, very clean, and well-equipped with all the amenities needed for a truly relaxing soak. The hotel's surroundings were peaceful and immersed in nature, making it perfect for unwinding, recharging, and simply enjoying some leisurely time. If I have the chance, I would definitely love to stay here again 😊.

🌿 A Perfect Escape into Nature! 🌿 This hotel truly exceeded my expectations. The view is simply breathtaking — one of the best I’ve ever experienced! From the moment I arrived, I felt my mind and body completely relax. The serene natural surroundings, peaceful ambiance, and fresh air made it the perfect getaway from daily life. The food was delicious with great variety, and every meal felt special. The staff were incredibly kind, attentive, and always ready to help — making the stay even more enjoyable. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and recharge your energy, this hotel is the ideal choice. Highly recommended for anyone who values comfort, peace, and a touch of natural beauty! 🌸✨

My first time visit to Japan and I was after an authentic Japanese accommodation. I booked a Japanese Style room with futon beds which were very comfortable. The room was beautiful and very clean. My booking also included breakfast and dinner which were always outstanding, beautifully prepared and unique food items. They utilized farm to table dining and the women explained each item served. They provided and encouraged one to wear Kimonos’s /tabi socks / slippers during one’s stay at, “ Nikko Iwaiyado Juyan “. Which further contributed to the authentic Japanese vibe. Indoor and outdoor hot tubs were amazing. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay there again. The hotel is nestled within mountains and the setting serene. Hotel is family owned and they take pride in caring for their guests.