"I absolutely loved Shibu Hotel! The staff went out of their way to help me at every opportunity, the food was incredible, and the location made exploring Shibu Onsen so easy. I can't recommend it enough!
Staff: Before I arrived, they actually contacted ME about a pickup outside their posted pickup hours. I hadn't even asked because I assumed it wasn't an option! They checked the weather for me, and someone even ran after me with an umbrella when it started raining. I was traveling alone, and everyone was so warm and welcoming. They recognized me, seemed happy to see me, and I never had trouble communicating.
Room: Beautiful traditional Japanese room with tatami and futons. Spacious, quiet, very clean, and I got to watch the fog roll in over the hills from my window!
Baths/location: They gave me a yukata and a key with a little map for the nine public baths, and I bought a towel at the desk. But honestly? I liked the hotel's own bath even more. So refreshing! The hotel is also easy to spot, even after wandering the winding streets for ages.
Food: Dinner was a beautiful multicourse meal. The fresh fish was wonderful, the beef nabe was incredible, and breakfast was full of little dishes with traditional Japanese flavors. I couldn't get over the tsukemono!
I really loved this place. More than anything, it was how kind everyone was. They didn't just help when I asked—they noticed things and helped before I could even think to ask."