Ajisai Onsen Ryokan - Award Winning Private Open Air Onsen

The full experience was amazing for the family from onsen and dinner

We had to walk from the train station, make sure to not bring a lot of luggage with you

everything

This great little Ryokan is perfect for families and those looking to have a private Onsen experience. They have three Onsen's (one indoor, one outdoor, and one room that has both) which you automatically have access to for a fifty minute slot in the morning and evening. We found it was very easy to book additional slots in the Onsen and availability was good. The Japanese dinner is delicious (and the menu changes if you stay multiple nights). We were highly impressed with the staff, who went out of their way to accommodate us, offering us earlier breakfast and Onsen times when they learned we had an early checkout day. You can leave luggage with them in the morning if you're in Gora earlier than check-in and off exploring which is very convenient. We stayed in the family Japanese room which is perfect if you're looking for the classic experience (be aware that futon's are a little firmer than Western beds) but I understand they also have rooms with Western beds. All-in-all the Ryokan had a really intimate feel, with only a few guest rooms, and is nestled in a small woodlands which gives it a peaceful feel.

As others have mentioned, this Ryokan is up a steep hill. If you're energetic and your luggage isn't too heavy it would be a fifteen-twenty minute walk but if you're not up for some cardio I'd recommend getting a taxi. You can also take the cable car (which is a funicular - the actual cable car is called the "ropeway") but be aware that this gets VERY busy at peak times. If you take the cable car expect a five-ish minute walk on level ground.

The staff were friendly and the surrounding is peaceful

I don't think the value for money was great. Kaiseki was a disappointing for the amount paid.