10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
Travelled with family
22 Dec 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Japanese hospitality at its best
From the moment of pickup at the Ogoto Onsen station and dropoff, the service was flawless! Check-in is completed while seated in the lobby (rather than standing in queue) and many of the staff speak multiple languages. While the venue is slightly older, it is beautifully maintained and spotless.
The 24 component kaiseki dinner is delicious and cheap considering the variety, gorgeous presentation and flavors. N.B. The kaiseki menu is only available in Japanese and even though I'm bilingual, I had a hard time explaining it for my fellow travellers. Google translator was also perplexed... If you have food restrictions or allergies, kaiseki is NOT for you! The breakfast buffet has lots of variety but some may find the smell of fish quite strong since it's grilled at the table.
The onsen was recently renovated and now has new dry barrel sauna with great views. Benefit: it's open 24 hours so I was able to enjoy a private experience multiple times throughout the stay (N.B. the barrel sauna closes at midnight).
The staff go out of their way to ensure everyone's comfort even when dealing with cultural differences, language barriers, multiple (sometimes unreasonable) and demands from international (and local) guests. #impressed
While there are pricier and more traditional ryokans in Japan, we had a fabulously relaxing time at the Biwako Ryokusuitei and wish we could of stayed longer!
Verified traveller
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2023