Koshi no yado Takashimaya
9,3/10 Exceptional - Based on 27 reviews
Koshi no yado Takashimaya is a traditional ryokan set in the Iwamuro Onsen district of Niigata, housed in a restored 250-year-old residence registered as a tangible cultural property. The property retains period architecture, timber interiors and a landscaped garden with bamboo groves and old pines, illuminated at night. Public baths draw on local springs, including a spacious communal onsen and secluded outdoor baths accessed from select guest rooms.
Accommodations range from intimate garden-facing rooms to larger suites; several rooms feature their own ceramic or stone open-air baths fed directly from the source. Interiors combine tatami sleeping areas and lacquered low tables with modern conveniences such as free Wi‑Fi and en-suite amenities. Meals showcase Niigata ingredients—seasonal seafood, mountain vegetables and rice—served as multi-course kaiseki, either in-room or in the dining area, with private dining on request. Service emphasizes traditional hospitality while accommodating contemporary comfort.
The ryokan offers practical access for regional travel, with shuttle pickups timed to local train services (reservation recommended) and parking for drivers, and lies within reach of cultural sites and walking routes around Yahiko Mountain and the Iwamuro hot-spring area. Quiet gardens, historic architecture and private onsen-equipped rooms suit couples seeking privacy or travellers focused on regional cuisine and heritage. For SEO relevance this Niigata property fits the archetype of a ryokan with onsen and can also be compared with ryokan with private onsen Toyama in regional searches.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Koshi no yado Takashimaya
Positive Reviews
Exceptional hospitality
Staff and hosts repeatedly praised for warm, attentive service (omotenashi). Guests mention helpful communication, welcoming greetings on arrival, small thoughtful gifts, and overall generous, caring treatment throughout their stay.
Outstanding food and in‑room dining
Multiple reviewers highlighted very delicious, beautifully presented meals—including multi‑course in‑room dinner services and well‑planned breakfasts. Portions were generous and the dining experience was a memorable part of the stay.
Relaxing onsen experience
Guests loved the onsen facilities—quiet, peaceful outdoor baths and private onsen options were singled out as highlights. Many described the outdoor onsen as small, serene and perfect for relaxing after meals.
Traditional charm and attractive rooms
The ryokan’s historic character, tasteful decoration, bamboo garden views and features like large cypress tubs impressed visitors. Reviewers enjoyed the authentic, well‑kept atmosphere and charming architectural details.
Helpful station pickup and good value
The property’s shuttle/pickup service from the local shinkansen station and clear communication made access easier for those without cars. Several guests felt the overall experience represented excellent value and appreciated on‑site gifts/shops.
Negative Reviews
Remote location/transport can be inconvenient
Multiple reviews note the ryokan is a fair distance from the train station (≈30 minutes by car). While a shuttle service is offered, some visitors may find the location less convenient without a car.
Aging facilities and building
Several guests observed that the property and some equipment feel old or dated. The historic nature is charming for many, but some expect more modernized facilities.
Limited bath/shower amenities near some outdoor baths
A few reviewers reported that some open‑air baths lacked adjacent showers or washing areas, requiring guests to move elsewhere for rinsing—causing inconvenience.
Futon/bed comfort issues for some guests
At least one guest found sleeping on futons uncomfortable and experienced body pain; some visitors noted they usually prefer rooms with western beds, which were not available to them.
Occasional mechanical noise
A small number of guests mentioned mechanical noise (for example, a loud heat pump) affecting room quietness, though this was noted as a minor issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by type; most rooms are arranged for two guests, while selected larger rooms or suites can accommodate up to six people. Check the specific room description when booking for exact limits.
Yes — the property has public hot-spring baths with outdoor sections, and the large baths operate on a gender-rotation schedule; several room types also include private in‑room or open‑air hot spring baths.
Some room types are sold with private in‑room or open‑air hot-spring baths; for fully private public-bath reservations, contact the ryokan in advance to confirm availability and options.
The ryokan offers complimentary shuttle pick‑ups from nearby stations by prior reservation (typically requested a few days in advance); Niigata Airport is about 44 km away, so confirm transfer options with the property before arrival.
The nearest station is Iwamuro Station (Echigo Line); the ryokan is a short taxi ride from the station (around 8 minutes), and station pick‑ups are available with prior arrangement.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 (with the latest arrival time noted by the ryokan) and check‑out is by 11:00; dinner service typically starts early evening so inform the ryokan of any late arrivals.
Staff can assist in English and the property appears on multilingual booking sites; if you need specific language support, notify the ryokan ahead of arrival to ensure assistance.
Meals focus on traditional Japanese cuisine (multi‑course kaiseki and an Asian-style breakfast); dinners are served in dining rooms or in‑room depending on the plan, and the final dinner service start time is set by the ryokan, so check timings when you book.
Pets are not permitted; some room types have age or child restrictions, so verify the room policy before booking. Private in‑room baths are available in certain room types, but whole‑facility privatization is not standard and must be requested directly.
The ryokan provides on‑site parking for guests. There is an on‑site shop selling local specialties and gifts; for nearby supermarkets or convenience-store locations, contact the front desk for directions.