御宿 竹取物語 — Hotel in Chichibu

We spent just one night in Oyado, but could've wished for more. The moment we stepped into the inn, we were greeted with the kind of warmth and hospitality one afforded to a family member. It was expected that language would be a barrier, as English is not widely spoken nor understood in the region off the beaten path in Saitama. However, the innkeepers went through great lengths trying to communicate to us via hand signs, simple English terms and also web translator! The room was immaculately clean, spacious and full of amenities. Everything was provided from head to toe, so one could check in without bringing anything but just themselves. Traditional Japanese dinner and breakfast were included in the package, and the spread was fit for royalty. Just when we thought we were done, good food kept coming in. The baths were separated by sex, but can be reserved for personal use from 8 to 12 p.m. The location of this inn is rather remote and could be difficult for first time visitors, more so if Japanese language is an obstacle. ||||On a personal note, after checking out, we left our luggage in the inn, informed the innkeepers that we would be forgoing the transportation provided and heading to the Urayamaguchi train station on our own, for a short detour around Chichibu. Be mindful the waiting time for trains in and out in Chichibu region is about 20-40 minutes; you miss one, be ready for long wait for the next train. The rain was rather heavy in the morning, so the detour was cut short and we made it back to the inn with just 10 minutes to spare for the next train out. The landlady and innkeeper immediately understood the situation, gave us towels for drying and called the landlord to rush back to the inn. He came back in a minute, packed our stuffs into the car and drove us to the station just before the train arrived. He even told the station officer where we were heading in Japanese, so we managed to buy the tickets and boarded the train on time. This episode alone convinced us that we'll be back someday for...

We spent just one night in Oyado, but could've wished for more. The moment we stepped into the inn, we were greeted with the kind of warmth and hospitality one afforded to a family member. It was expected that language would be a barrier, as English is not widely spoken nor understood in the region off the beaten path in Saitama. However, the innkeepers went through great lengths trying to communicate to us via hand signs, simple English terms and also web translator! The room was immaculately clean, spacious and full of amenities. Everything was provided from head to toe, so one could check in without bringing anything but just themselves. Traditional Japanese dinner and breakfast were included in the package, and the spread was fit for royalty. Just when we thought we were done, good food kept coming in. The baths were separated by sex, but can be reserved for personal use from 8 to 12 p.m. The location of this inn is rather remote and could be difficult for first time visitors, more so if Japanese language is an obstacle. ||||On a personal note, after checking out, we left our luggage in the inn, informed the innkeepers that we would be forgoing the transportation provided and heading to the Urayamaguchi train station on our own, for a short detour around Chichibu. Be mindful the waiting time for trains in and out in Chichibu region is about 20-40 minutes; you miss one, be ready for long wait for the next train. The rain was rather heavy in the morning, so the detour was cut short and we made it back to the inn with just 10 minutes to spare for the next train out. The landlady and innkeeper immediately understood the situation, gave us towels for drying and called the landlord to rush back to the inn. He came back in a minute, packed our stuffs into the car and drove us to the station just before the train arrived. He even told the station officer where we were heading in Japanese, so we managed to buy the tickets and boarded the train on time. This episode alone convinced us that we'll be back someday for...

Located a short taxi ride from Chichibu railway station this is a very traditional Japanese Riyokan or guesthouse. Very limited English is spoken by the hosts but don't let this put you off! Using a combination of mime and google translate we were made very welcome. Our room was as expected, with tatami mat flooring and minimal furnishings ( other than a rather incongruous TV in the corner), air conditioning and a pleasant ante room with doors opening onto a small outdoor space. ||Traditional yukata and room socks were available for use.||A splendid multi-course dinner was included, served at the customary early time of 6pm, with an extensive range of Sake to choose from. We were delighted to be invited to go on a short drive after dinner to see fireflies, an unexpected bonus.||During dinner the hosts transformed our sitting room into a bedroom with futon bedding.||As is usual in a Riyokan, there was a sento or hot bath available for guest use- with male, female or mixed use at different times. ||The small bar was opened after dinner from 9.30 onwards and had a superb range of Japanese whiskies, especially those from the local Chichibu distillery.||Breakfast the next morning was vast- don't expect eggs and bacon!||Overall a very interesting and enjoyable stay and difficult to think how it could be improved.||Would...