Kobori Ryokan

central and convenient location, walking distance from many restaurants and hirosaki castle park. big room, nicely decorated, with sleeping side and dining side. good value for money

smoking is allowed in some corridors instead of being contained to a smoking room

Kobori's chief feature is their beautiful old building - a marriage of classic ryokan style (tatami, shoji, futons, wood) with the conveniences of a hotel. It's close to Hirosaki Castle and the main street, and close to the yokocho district for dining opportunities. The staff made efforts to help us and managed our luggage shipping with patience and understanding.

It's on a busy downtown street,a bit noisy.

· PRICE: It was probably one of the most affordable accommodations in the area. It was definitely value for money. LOCATION: This is one of the best things about Kobori Ryokan. Plenty of the tourist attractions are within walking distance. Accessing the ryokan from Hirosaki Station/Hirosaki Bus Terminal is also not a problem because there is a bus stop right across the ryokan. There is a nearby convenience store and a sento where you can see Mt. Iwaki. ROOM: I stayed in a Western-style room. It was quite spacious. There was a couch, a closet, a desk with a window facing the street. It was quiet though because the room was not that close to the street. MATTRESS: The bed was quite firm. It's perfect for me because I like this kind of bed. ROOM AMENITIES: The room has a small fridge, kettle, and green tea. Guests are provided a yukata as well. You also have the usual bedroom slippers, toothbrush and toothpaste, brush, razor, and hairdryer. ONSEN: Kobori Ryokan has its own shared onsen that guests can use for 30 minutes. It’s a spacious bath and I was able to relax and use it comfortably. STAFF: I’m not sure if the staff speak English but they did reply in English when I emailed them. There is an English version of the accommodation's policies and rules in the room so it's good to read that, too.

A lovely, clean traditional Japanese inn

Staircase was quite steep, not suitable for elderly travellers or those who need to carry heavy luggage up the stairs

Very near to Hirosaki Castle. Friendly staff.