Charming ryokan with excellent service!
After renting a car near Karuizawa station, we arrived at Kusatsu onsen town to find the narrow roads packed with holidaymakers. It was quite harrowing finding our way to the ryokan after circling around. On arrival the front office people were very helpful and led me to a free parking area some distance away.
Our experience was very much as described by past reviewers...a traditional ryokan right in heart of the hot spring attraction centre.
The room was very spacious. Dinner and breakfast were good enough but no wow factor.
What was most delightful for our stay was the very friendly and attentive Nepalese front-end staff named Khadka, who made it easy for us with his good English. He was almost always there to attend to our every need and we enjoyed our conversation with him when he served us at the bar.
I would highly recommend having drinks at the bar with its cosy ambience and enjoying the front seats facing the window where we can see people walking by as well as a view of the pagoda.
Our stay there was memorable!
We stayed at Naraya Ryokan as a family of four for two nights and three days, and the experience exceeded our expectations from the moment we arrived. We were greeted immediately upon check in, and the staff took time to clearly explain the facilities, meals, and schedule, making the entire process smooth and welcoming. We personally communicated with the staff in Japanese, which made interactions especially seamless. We also observed the staff making genuine efforts to assist other guests in English. While English is not their first language, their willingness to accommodate and ensure guests felt comfortable was evident and appreciated.
The ryokan itself is beautifully maintained, offering a calm and traditional atmosphere with thoughtful details throughout. One highlight not to be missed is the coffee spot attached to the lobby, which is an excellent place to relax. Their take on affogato is especially memorable and well worth trying.
Dining at Naraya Ryokan is a traditional set menu experience that showcases seasonal Japanese cuisine. Guests should be prepared to enjoy authentic, traditional dishes that reflect regional ingredients and seasonal flavors. Each meal felt carefully prepared and added depth to the overall ryokan experience.
Our stay felt unhurried and restorative, and we would have gladly stayed an additional night if our itinerary had allowed. Naraya Ryokan comes highly recommended, and we would happily return for another stay in the future.
We stayed in Naraya House for 1 night and it was perfect. The staffs were all very kind and helpful that I am truly grateful for all their assistance given throughout our stay. We had a suite, rm no.206, it was stunningly amazing! I only know I am booking a suite with a beautiful view of the yubatake and private onsen. I didn't know it's a gigantic duplex suite with the best view of the yubatake! The room door opens to a western style living and dining area that fits with a set of sofa for 6 and a dining table for 4 with 2 benches. To the left of this western style area is 2 double beds, a walk-in closet and a toilet. I could see Japanese syle beddings in a cupboard which I believe they would be made when the room is booked for more than 2 persons. Facing the sofa is a TV panel. Behind the TV is a Japanese style sitting area with a coffee table and a view of the yubatake. The view is picturesque. There you can also find a stairs going down to the suite's private onsen bath. It's actually on a balcony overlooking the yubatake, the same gorgeous view as in its Japanese style sitting area above, just without the windows, ie closer and clearer picture of the yubatake without reflections. But be aware ppl on the street can see u too, as you can see the windows r just next to 7.11 The meal provided was fantastic. I particularly enjoyed the freshly made sushi. The salmon roe was just so fresh that they were actually shining like marbles. All the ingredients used are high quality. My kid, who is usually picky on food, was pleased with the menu. He already wanted to come back again. Next time, we will stay here for more nights in order to better experience the beauty of Kusatzu.
Ps I usually don't bother to write a review, I am doing this one in return to the hotel's great service and hospitality. Thank you and until next time~
Kusatsu 396, 377-1711 草津町, 吾妻郡, 群马县, 日本
