I've been here more than five times for day spa and also for overnight. It feels straight out of a Ghibli film—mystical and truly one of a kind. The old wooden ryokan creaks and is dated, but that only adds to its charm. The outdoor hot spring is massive, and the view of the river is fantastic, no matter the season. While the autumn foliage is beautiful, winter, with its snow-covered landscape, is equally amazing.

If you don't have a car, they offer a shuttle bus, but I highly recommend driving there for the full experience. The website mentions no tattoos allowed, but if you talk to the staff, they'll usually let you in as long as you try to cover up and they give you a robe.