The Ryokan is located pretty close to everything, Hikone Castle and Hikone station can be reached by foot in about 10-20 minutes, restaurant, convenience stores, etc. are also pretty close. The family running the Ryokan was very very friendly and accommodating to me. Everything has been explained to me, but I also speak Japanese so mileage may vary. The bath was very nice and Japanese style. Everything I needed like Toothbrushes, shampoo was available. I liked the room, it was a Japanese style tatami room with a comfortable Futon bed.

There are some bars located close by and they might sing loudly in the evening. I just closed my window and wasn’t bothered much by it though. It’s probably best to join them if you aren’t tired like I was.

This was probably the best accommodation I had so far. It is true when they say - the further you go from the big cities, the more sympathetic and kind people you meet. I was very skeptical about my stay in the ryokan, as the pictures were not that promising and the price was quite low. As well as the city of Hikone is not that big (probably it is a small town area). But when I came in the evening after a full-day trip, I saw a very well made accommodation, exceptionally clean and a host, who met me with a very warm greeting! He showed me all of the facilities and we had a nice chat. I should admit - it is very important when you are coming late and plus to that you are alone. Later he offered me a dinner and I was more then amazed by how tasty and big it was for that price! I had 5 or more dishes (do not remember exactly as there were a lot), prepared on a beautiful tableware. I really felt like I was home. The lobby area was probably repaired - as it has nothing similar with the photos from the booking.com. Now it has a very clean and light colored design. It was visible from the first sight, that the host treats the hotel as if it was his own house, greeting everyone with open arms and heart. I would dream to meet such hosts in Kyoto, Osaka and other big cities. But so far, I met the best host in Hikone town. Unfortunately, I don't remember the name of the host-just found his name now. Hiroshi san, 温かい歓迎をありがとうございました。

Really great place to stay! The owner is so warm and welcoming. He went out his way to prepare vegetarian food for me, it was a simple meal with good ingredients prepared with care. Really delicious. Not many places in Japan agree to do this so I really appreciated the gesture.