Kakehashi Onsen

The staff really went above and beyond to make two ignorant Canadian tourists feel extremely welcome at a traditional Japanese Ryuken. Though there was a small language barrier, we never felt that we could not communicate our needs. The hot and cold onsen was very refreshing after walking post towns along the Nakasendo Way. The river next to the hotel made for a relaxing experience and deep sleep. Somehow, I missed the option when booking to select the dinner option, there is really no other food options in the area, and the clerk (owner) said he would put a 'simple meal' together for us for a small charge which we found acceptable. The kaiseki that followed was some of the best and most authentic Japanese food we experienced in our two weeks in Japan. The woman serving us was an absolute gem and the cat that ran the establishment was adorable. Our room was very comfortable and had a nice sitting area with a view of the river. Only points of contention would be that that it's a little out of the way if you don't have a car, but is conveniently accessable by bus with ~10 minute walk. The facilities are a little dated, the onsen is discoloured, but I assume that is from the natural minerals. There was a stale smell (smoke) in the rooms which is a bit off-putting to non-smokers. It would appear smoking is allowed in the facility which might be a plus to some.

日帰り入浴で訪れました。木曾の桟跡に架かる赤い橋と川の眺めが良い浴室には浴槽が二つ並んでいます。源泉浴槽の温度は２１度ほどの湯温、加温浴槽は４０度の温度でした。源泉温度が１３度の二酸化炭素冷鉱泉を加温した温泉です。季節、時間とともに温泉の色は変化するようですが、訪問時濃茶色の湯色で鉄分の臭いを感じ、源泉湯口で口に含むとサイダーのような味がしました。温冷二つの浴槽の交互入浴がとても気持ち良かったです。