From the balcony, we can access the open-air private Onsen in our room.



A Ryokan is actually a type of traditional Japanese inn, which features Tatami-matted rooms, communal baths and other public areas. We were pretty shy about sharing a bath with strangers, and so the criteria for us when deciding on a Ryokan is for it to have a private hot spring.



Endless hot spring water which flows into the massive tub.



This is what it looks like entering from the other end of the tub :



One thing about this design though : it gets ridiculously cold when you’re not soaked in the hot water!





A tiny stool and pail are thoughtfully provided. A set of Yukata is also provided by Yama No Chaya for use within the Ryokan.





The tiny passage way in our room : on the left is the living area, the front is the bathroom, and to the right is the set of stairs that lead to the bedroom.



The bathroom, while small, is definitely not lacking in details.



Loved the old-school looking brass tap. They even left little charcoal pieces in the basin – wonder what it does?



Cups were placed on little bamboo trays to help drain the water, together with the usual selection of toiletries.



Heated toilet bowl, with bidet. Ah, such luxury.



>> Continued at next post >>