26.02.08The hard product was actually okay. Cosy, clean rooms with a mini garden (i had a first floor room).
The staff were the absolute bane of the ryokan. Upon arrival, the male Japanese eyed us up and down as though we were vermin and we didn't belong there. No greeting, no offering to help with our bags, absolutely nothing but a scowling face.
The other foreign female attendant escorted us to the room and kindly explained the facilities.
Spoiled my trip with their cold, indifferent attitude. The staff in question have no business being in hospitality, much less a Japanese ryokan.
I'm absolutely disgusted.
25.05.28I don’t usually write negative reviews, but I feel it’s important to share my experience to help others set realistic expectations.
Yamaki Ryokan was, sadly, the least enjoyable place I stayed during my time in Japan. The building is extremely dated — not in a charming, traditional way, but in a way that feels neglected. My room smelled strongly of mould, the walls were paper-thin (I could hear everything from neighbouring rooms), and the lighting was harsh and clinical, creating a cold, uncomfortable atmosphere.
The food was very limited — dinner consisted entirely of fish, and breakfast was virtually identical. I genuinely couldn’t stomach anything else at that point and asked for a little extra orange, just to have something light — only to be charged $2.50 for three small slices. Honestly mind-boggling, especially given the context. Truly, I am an easy and flexible traveller, but this felt unnecessarily inhospitable.
The onsen was similarly tired and uninspired, and the property was difficult to access, which added to the overall sense of effort with little reward.
Perhaps most surprisingly, the staff were quite cold — the only place in Japan where I felt unwelcome. That said, I do want to acknowledge the one lovely young woman who served my meals. She was warm, kind, and attentive, and a real bright spot in an otherwise very disheartening stay.
When the door closed behind me after check-in, I genuinely cried. The atmosphere was that bleak. Had I not been so exhausted from travelling, I would have left immediately and booked elsewhere.
I’m not someone who expects luxury or fuss, just a sense of care and comfort. Unfortunately, this experience had none of that. I hope the ryokan seriously considers guest feedback and makes the improvements it clearly needs
25.02.28Our group of 4 stayed at this hotel and truly enjoyed it. It’s a Japanese style of hotel so we get to know more about the Japanese culture. Staff were super nice. The shared big room was comfortable for family of 4. During the day, foldable mattresses were kept in a closet, for living room to have space for dining and breakfast. Meals were well prepared and very delicious. Strongly recommend for group that does not require private rooms. Wonderful experience.