Takamiya Ryokan Yamakawa

I feel compelled to write a review of this property because some previous reviews had been very bad. We were a bit apprehensive when we got to the ryokan. It was raining, we were early (1 o'clock) and some reviews said staff were not friendly. If we couldn't check in, we would have to find some other shelter. As it turned out, the friendly gentleman at the reception allowed us to check in. The next 2 days were most enjoyable. The food was excellent and they provided a shuttle service for us to visit Uesugi shrine on day 2, one of the best sights on that trip. The room was spacious and clean. The best thing was the onsen with excellent water quality. We learned not to trust every review, good or bad. We picked this place precisely because some reviewers seem bend on destroying its reputation. There was a small exhibition on the history of this place near the reception. It was well worth the time I spent there.

Probably my worst ryokan experience in Japan in over 10 years. We paid US$ 280 for one night without dinner. The place is a not worth US$80. Poor rooms, heating hardly working, everything old and stinking. Poorly maintained onsen. Maybe they take advantage of *********** as we had fully paid ahead for 2 rooms. It was my son’s birthday and he was so disappointed as I had told him so much about the quality of ryokans in Japan. This hotel also trades under a different name “Takamiya Ryokan Yamakawa » This was my first experience with Takamiya group of hotels. Better stay elsewhere.