Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Eiko
2026/8/3
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent food, convenient location, and attentive staff; we thoroughly enjoyed our 3-night stay at this century-old inn!
We chose Joshuya for an authentic ryokan experience. Stay here for a nostalgic Showa-era atmosphere, home-style Japanese meals shared with guests, excellent public hot spring, and a location within walking distance of major historical sites and Tobu Nikko Station. If you want conventional beds, private bathrooms, or the flexibility to come and go whenever you please, look elsewhere.
A dedicated fifth-generation owner runs this small operation, preparing meals daily. The inn is a time capsule showing its age, but our living spaces, futons, towels, and yukata were very clean. Amenities include AC, a fridge, Wi-Fi, and toiletries. You only need a change of clothes! All six meals were fantastic, and the low-mineral hot spring left our skin remarkably smooth!
While Joshuya offers an authentic immersion into Japanese hospitality, travelers should note that this property leans heavily into a rustic, historic style rather than modern convenience. Guests should embrace aging facilities, such as shared external washrooms, natural ventilation in common areas, and vintage architecture, along with customs like mandatory shoe removal at the entryway, meal schedules, and curfew hours.
Overall, we were deeply impressed by their attentiveness. Warmth and tradition outshine luxury here! We hope this historic inn continues to thrive and look forward to returning!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026