Nazuna Obi Onsen Resort

While Nazuna is a very nice Ryokan in a beautiful setting, it is simply too expensive (JPY 72’100/night, without dinner) compared to other upscale places we have visited over the last decades in Japan: - minimal toiletries (the ones you get at a 4* in Tokyo are often better) - rather small outdoor onsen i.e. tub without constant waterflow (you need to push a button, and it takes quite some time to fill) - amenities in the room pretty minimal as well, e.g. only jar of tap water in the small fridge - room wasn’t properly cleaned when we arrived, and this to an extent, I was expecting we get another room, given we were the only guests that day. However, it was fixed by the staff promptly. Still, given the price - and heads-up of our arrival time by phone, well after regular check-in hours -, this simply needs to be checked before guests arrive. The room (Kogakura-Chaboku, 55m2, but feels much much smaller) we had consisted of a separate, though windowless sitting area, a very modern and functional bathroom, outdoor onsen and a bedroom (a bit narrow) with couch, table and very large TV. Word of caution: If you are ＞ 175cm / 5’8” tall – luckily, we both aren’t -, you will not enjoy this hotel, as it is a historic building with low ceilings. Staff was friendly and helpful. There is a small lounge with free soft drinks and some sweets for guests to use. If you can get a good deal, go, but for more than 70’000 Yen/night we wouldn’t return and book elsewhere. That said, Obi is a nice little town with many places to eat just a short stroll away.