We arrived one hour late for the last sitting for dinner on the first night but we were welcomed and served as if on time. The hotel looked somewhat tired on first view, and it is. If you want four star, book somewhere else. But if you want a great experience, this is a great place to stay. We were extremely well looked after by Kato, a competent English speaking long term employee. A delightful man with a great sense of humour. Being primarily a holiday spot for Japanese, foreigners are less well catered for than other tourist spots, and the 12 course meal we had on the first night was a fantastic introduction to a traditional Japanese feast. If you are prepared for the challenge and Kato is there to explain what you are eating, it is a great cultural experience.
All the staff were friendly and helpful and the onsen (hot spring) baths on the hotel premises are varied and expansive for the men but less so for the women. The hotel encourage a relaxed attitude of their patrons, even encouraging the use of the Japanese bathrobe used for the onsen for use around the hotel.
A white sandy beach was a short walk from the hotel.