Arima Hot Spring Ryokan Hanamusubi

Relaxing

Massage chair was older than the one in my daughter’s room . Wish it was the same :(

Quality and quantity of food was ok. Our room with private bath was very clean. Check-in was fast and they provide free shuttle. Train station was nearby.

All the other staff were very friendly and patient, except that the service of our Nakai-san could be better. I supposed that started partly due to miscommunication as her English wasn’t good. She was a little rude throughout our stay after that, even after I tried to explain and apologize for the miscommunicated situation. This Ryokan also does not feature as many amenities as compared to the 2 other Ryokans I stayed nearby. I would regard this as a smaller establishment with basic service offerings.

Breakfast, onsen, and complimentary ramen, ice cream, and yakult

The staff are exceptional. They went above and beyond in all situations, even when my very limited Japanese language skills weren’t up to the task.

It isn’t a negative per se, but it is more of a shuttle bus to town rather than a walk: it is not far but the road is steep and there are places without footpaths. Thankfully the shuttle bus is never far away and will drop you at requested stops - e.g. we wanted to be dropped at a specific coffee shop and they were happy to oblige.