Traditional Ryokan in Shibu Onsen

Worth The Trip

Wafu No Yado Masuya was one of those places we wished we’d booked for longer.

The ryokan itself is excellent, with comfortable traditional rooms, a very memorable Kaiser dinner and access to Shibu Onsen’s historic bath houses. But what made this place extra special was the atmosphere of the town itself.

As evening arrived, we put on our yukata and wandered through the quiet streets between the different bath houses. The whole town felt peaceful, welcoming and completely unlike anywhere else we’d visited.

We walked past a small authentic local bar and decided to go in (we had no idea what to expect). We took off our shoes, and sat at a table on the floor, for my less flexible partner this was slightly uncomfortable but that quickly passed when we ordered a sake to try. The owner made sure the glass was filled right to the very top and kindly bowed and walked away with a big smile on his face.

This part of our trip wasn’t just a hotel stay, it felt like a glimpse into a different way of life.

We’ve already agreed that we’ll return to this ryokan and stay in Shibu Onsen again, next time will be for at least 2 or 3 nights.