Welcome to our review of a hidden gem in the heart of Japan! Tucked away in Tochigi’s Shiobara district, this traditional inn offers a slice of authentic Japanese culture.
You’ll sleep on tatami floors, soak in the local cuisine, and enjoy the serenity of a remote location. But don’t expect modern luxuries – there’s no Wi-Fi, and the nearest airport is a whopping 80 km away.
On the bright side, you’ll find clean, air-conditioned rooms with TVs, and free parking for your rental car. The staff’s top-notch service will make you feel right at home.
While there’s no on-site buffet, you’ll get to savor genuine Japanese dishes that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
This inn is perfect for travelers seeking a true culture and a break from the digital world. Nature lovers and history buffs will appreciate the easy access to nearby wonders and historical sites.
If you’re after a quiet retreat and don’t mind trading some modern conveniences for an unforgettable Japanese experience, this place is calling your name!
We included this ryokan in our top 9 ryokan picks in Shiobara Onsen-kyo, Nasushiobara.
Good To Know
- Kouunsou is a traditional Japanese-style accommodation located in Nasushiobara, Tochigi, approximately 80 km from Fukushima Airport.
- The property offers a variety of room types, including Japanese Modern Rooms, Quadruple Rooms, Standard Twin Rooms, and Economy Twin Rooms.
- Amenities at Kouunsou include free private parking, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles, but no internet access is provided.
- Guests can enjoy a traditional tatami-floored atmosphere and access to nearby natural attractions and historical sites in the region.
- Kouunsou has an average rating of 7.7 out of 10, with high ratings for staff service and room cleanliness, but a lower score for its remote location.
General Property Information
The hotel Kouunsou is located in Nasushiobara, Tochigi, in Japan’s Shiobara district.
It’s 80 km from Fukushima Airport, the nearest major airport. Guests can check-in from 2pm to 6pm and check-out between 8am and 10am.
The hotel offers a range of room types, including Japanese Modern Rooms with double beds and Quadruple Rooms with futon beds, accommodating up to 4 guests.
Amenities include free private parking, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs, but there’s no internet access available.
The hotel doesn’t have a buffet breakfast, but breakfast options are offered.
Accommodation Options
Kouunsou offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different guest needs.
Visitors can choose from Japanese Modern Rooms with 2 double beds, Quadruple Rooms with 4 futon beds (some with bath or shower), Standard Twin Rooms with 2 double beds, or Economy Twin Rooms with 2 single beds.
Most rooms accommodate up to 4 guests. All accommodations feature traditional tatami flooring, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles.
However, the property doesn’t provide internet access. Breakfast is available, but there’s no buffet-style dining on-site.
Facilities and Amenities
Free private parking is available for guests at Kouunsou.
The property offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Non-smoking rooms with air conditioning and flat-screen TVs.
- Electric kettles for in-room tea and coffee making.
- Traditional tatami flooring to provide a genuine Japanese atmosphere.
- Breakfast options, though no buffet-style dining is offered on-site.
However, it’s important to note that Kouunsou doesn’t offer internet access for guests.
The property is designed to provide a peaceful, traditional lodging experience in the Shiobara district of Nasushiobara, Tochigi.
Guest Ratings and Feedback
Guests’ overall impression of Kouunsou averages a respectable 7.7, with standout ratings in staff service (8.8) and cleanliness (8.8).
Facilities and comfort both score 8.4, while value for money is rated 7.2. The property’s remote location contributes to a lower score of 6.9 for location.
The ryokan seems to offer a traditional Japanese experience with well-maintained rooms and friendly staff, though some guests may find the lack of internet and distance from major cities as drawbacks.
Kouunsou’s ratings suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic stay in the Nasushiobara region.
Policies and Restrictions
According to the property’s policies, children of all ages are welcome, but cots and extra beds aren’t available.
Pets aren’t allowed on the premises. Smoking is prohibited throughout the entire property.
Plus, the management doesn’t permit parties or events to be hosted at Kouunsou.
The hotel accepts only cash payments, and cancellation and prepayment policies vary depending on the type of accommodation booked.
Nearby Attractions and Locations
Kouunsou’s prime location places it within easy reach of several popular destinations in the surrounding areas.
The property is situated in the Shiobara district of Nasushiobara, Tochigi, offering guests convenient access to cities like Utsunomiya, Nasu, Nikko, Yaita, and Shirakawa.
Fukushima Airport, the nearest airport, is approximately 80 km away.
Guests can explore the region’s natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions during their stay.
Popular activities in the area include hiking, visiting temples and shrines, and sampling the local cuisine.
With its central location, Kouunsou serves as an ideal base for travelers looking to discover the rich heritage and natural wonders of this part of Japan.
Check-in and Check-out Times
At Kouunsou, check-in is available from 14:00 to 18:00, allowing guests ample time to arrive and settle in.
Check-out time is from 08:00 to 10:00, ensuring a smooth departure for travelers.
The property’s accommodating schedule includes:
- Early check-in from 14:00 onwards
- Flexible checkout until 10:00
- Convenient hours to suit various travel plans
- Enough time for guests to enjoy their stay without feeling rushed
This flexibility helps create a stress-free experience for visitors to Kouunsou.
Additional Property Details
Beyond the check-in and check-out schedule, Kouunsou offers an array of accommodations to suit diverse travel needs.
The property features Japanese Modern Rooms with two double beds, as well as Quadruple Rooms with either four futon beds or two double beds. For solo travelers, the Standard Twin and Economy Twin Rooms provide comfortable options. Most rooms accommodate up to four guests.
Amenities include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles. While the property doesn’t offer internet access, it provides free private parking. Guests can also enjoy breakfast options, though no buffet is available.
The surrounding areas offer popular destinations like Utsunomiya, Nasu, and Nikko.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Property Owned and Operated by a Local Family?
Based on the information provided, it appears the property is managed by a private host rather than a large corporation. This suggests the accommodation may be owned and operated by a local family in the Nasushiobara area.
Does the Property Offer Any Cultural Experiences or Activities?
The property doesn’t offer any explicit cultural experiences or activities. However, it’s located in the Shiobara district, known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and proximity to cultural attractions like Nikko. Guests can explore the surrounding area to enjoy the local culture.
What Type of Cuisine Is Served for Breakfast?
Breakfast at this property is not a buffet, but rather offers select breakfast options that may include local or traditional Japanese fare. Specific menu details are not provided in the information given.
Are There Any Nearby Hiking Trails or Nature Reserves?
The property doesn’t provide information about nearby hiking trails or nature reserves. However, the surrounding areas like Utsunomiya, Nasu, Nikko, Yaita, and Shirakawa are known for their scenic natural attractions that may offer hiking opportunities.
Can the Host Assist With Arranging Transportation or Activities?
The host can assist guests with arranging transportation to nearby attractions and activities like hiking trails or visiting nature reserves. However, the property itself does not have its own shuttle service or on-site activities.
The Sum Up
Kouunsou offers a unique culture experience in the scenic Shiobara district of Nasushiobara, Tochigi. Guests can expect traditional Japanese hospitality and comfort, though modern amenities are limited. The property’s range of accommodation caters to various needs, and its proximity to popular destinations like Utsunomiya, Nasu, and Nikko makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural beauty. Overall, Kouunsou provides a memorable stay in the heart of the Japanese countryside.