Hanare No Yado Hanagokoro

We based ourselves here in order to explore Mount Aso (which was spectacular) but the location was over an hour from the volcano. The location is remote - although there is a small well equipped store in the nearby village - and a fabulous onsen town close by too. So location wise, maybe not the best (but we found it easily using Apple Maps - despite the challenges faced by other travellers who have left reviews). The individual chalets were fairly simple but very spacious and perfectly functional with their own private little hot spa bath. Maybe a little pricey for what they were, but a pleasant change from a hotel during our long trip. The set evening meals - regional Japanese cooking - were delicious and the staff serving us were so delightful, and they helped us navigate some new and interesting culinary experiences.

This is among one of the best ryokans that I have stayed in. It is in the middle of nowhere. We stayed there for two nights and the place makes you feel like you are in touch with nature. We have a raom with two double beds and the size was more than adequate Even a small tatami sitting area separate from the bedroom area. All modern conveniences are there with more than enough plugs and usb outlets. All the rooms are in separate cabins from each other with parking in front. We have our own onsen attached to the shower area. There is a public one within walking distance in the property. The dinner is outstanding. Since it is so isolated, don't bother to go elsewhere to look for restaurants. Just one word of warning, Do not try to find the place after dark even with GPS help. I will assure you that you will have tremendous difficulty and will miss the last turn to the property which is one mile in from a one lane road. My Toyota GPS cannot locate it. The google map does the job but they lead you through small one lane road just to save you a few kilometers.