Hana to Hana
7,9/10 Very good - Based on 20 reviews
Irodoriyukashiki Hana to Hana is a riverside ryokan-style resort in the Yunishigawa Onsen area of the Nikko region, operating four guest wings with rooms arranged to showcase seasonal mountain and river views. Arrival options include the local bus from Yunishigawa-Onsen Station and a guest shuttle (reservation required); the property offers free parking and family-friendly room configurations. Standard practical details reported for guests include a 15:00 check-in and 10:00 check-out, non-smoking policies in many rooms, and complimentary Wi‑Fi in selected areas.
The property centers on alkaline simple hot springs (reported pH 9.3) presented across a variety of public and outdoor settings: a large communal bath, open-air baths that look toward the Yunishigawa River, a hinoki (cypress) bath, and rock-style baths that emphasise a natural feel. Management describes the water as soothing for muscles and skin, and independent sources note that reservable private baths with river or waterfall views are offered for exclusive use, providing the option to experience a ryokan with private onsen in Tochigi when privacy is preferred. Facilities also include a sauna and onsite massage services.
Dining is organised around seasonal kaiseki and three selectable meal styles, ranging from hearth‑grill dishes that evoke local Heike traditions to teppan presentations featuring Tochigi beef, and a sake selection focused on breweries from the prefecture. Onsite amenities and activities reported by multiple sources include a riverside lounge, a local‑sake bar, miso‑making workshops, karaoke and multipurpose meeting space, plus seasonal events such as the winter Kamakura festival; together these elements position the property as a ryokan with onsen in Tochigi suited to cultural and nature‑focused stays.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hana to Hana
Positive Reviews
Very good food, including local specialties
Multiple guests praised the meals—fresh, well-prepared and featuring local specialties served in private dining that many found enjoyable.
Varied onsen options
Reviewers highlighted that the property offers several types of hot springs (three different onsen), which guests enjoyed and found relaxing.
Comfortable rooms and pleasant views
Several guests described their rooms as comfortable and noted good views from the room and baths, contributing to a relaxing stay.
Attentive, welcoming service
Many reviewers mentioned helpful, polite staff and a strong sense of hospitality (omotenashi), including staff support via phone when arrival issues occurred.
Family-friendly facilities and comprehensive amenities
Guests appreciated the range of on-site facilities—enough to enjoy the stay without going out—and noted that children’s meals were adapted appropriately, making stays easier for families.
Negative Reviews
Rooms feel dated and could use refurbishment
Multiple comments noted that some rooms were old-fashioned or in need of a facelift, suggesting an update would improve guest impressions.
Maintenance problems in some rooms
Some guests reported room equipment issues such as a broken washlet, poor sink drainage, faulty water boiler and a refrigerator door coming loose, indicating inconsistent upkeep in certain buildings.
Irori dining could be uncomfortable (heat and air)
A few guests found the traditional irori (hearth) dining area uncomfortably hot with poor air circulation, which affected their dining comfort.
Food seasoning and dining layout concerns
One reviewer felt the overall seasoning was too strong/salty for their taste, and another found the placement of the dining tray beside the irori made eating awkward.
Insufficient pre-arrival facility information
At least one guest said they would have liked more detailed information about the property and its facilities before arrival to better prepare for the stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Twin rooms are for two guests and family rooms offer up to five futons; room types and capacities vary, so confirm with the ryokan for larger groups or special layouts.
The property has multiple indoor and open-air public baths, a sauna and reservable private baths; guests who prefer privacy or have tattoos are encouraged to reserve a private bath.
The ryokan is accessed from Yunishigawa-Onsen Station by local bus (about 30–35 minutes) or car; some listings note station pick-up—please contact the ryokan directly to arrange any station transfers.
Nearest local rail access is Yunishigawa-Onsen Station; major stations and Nikko attractions are typically a 45–60 minute drive, while major airports require longer transfers—check travel options and timings when planning.
Staff provide English support and there is multilingual signage in some areas; for specific language needs or special requests, contact the ryokan before arrival.
Meals focus on seasonal, local cuisine with kaiseki and regional Heike-style or teppanyaki options, and an Asian-style breakfast; the kitchen can adapt dishes for children with advance notice.
Heike No Sato and the Yunishigawa Kamakura events are nearby, and larger Nikko attractions (Tōshō-gū, Edo Wonderland, Tobu World Square) are reachable by car within about 50–60 minutes.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 (booking shows a common arrival window) and check-out is by 10:00; the property has parking for roughly 60 cars and offers bicycle lending.
Private baths can be reserved and the ryokan has event spaces, karaoke and activity options—contact the property to arrange group bookings or private use in advance.
Pets are not permitted at the ryokan; there are local shops and eateries within walking distance, while larger supermarkets and convenience stores are located in the wider Nikko area.