Hotel Casual Euro-Nikko's Inn with Its Own Natural Hot Spring

Although small, the room came with an open-air bath, and there was also another onsen area available. It wasn't luxurious, but I had a comfortable stay. The location was also convenient, close to Toshogu Shrine and other famous spots.

The hotel is a 20-25 minute uphill walk from the station, but they offer a complimentary shuttle service every morning and afternoon. To use it, just go to the Classic Hotel reception across from the station and tell them your reservation name; they'll arrange for the hotel shuttle to pick you up (shuttle times are 15:15, 16:15, 17:15, and 18:15). Breakfast is American style, with Japanese curry and soup. The coffee is pre-brewed and kept in a thermos, and you'll need to ask the staff for hot milk. Waking up and soaking in the wooden onsen tub on the terrace every day was incredibly relaxing.

Upon arrival, I tried to inquire about the shuttle bus, only to find out it needed to be booked a day in advance. I contacted Trip.com and the hotel for assistance, and both were very friendly and helpful. They told me to wait for the shuttle at the Nikko Hotel entrance, which is opposite JR Nikko Station. The driver who picked us up was also very kind and asked us where we were from. For every pick-up and drop-off, he would double-check if there were any other passengers, which was very diligent. My favorite part was the balcony in the room, which had a shower and a wooden bathtub. The scent of the wood was so lovely and therapeutic. I looked forward to breakfast every morning. As a vegan, there were fewer options, but everything was delicious. Although the journey was a bit far, the fresh air and cool, comfortable weather made it a perfect summer retreat. Plus, there's a free ice and beverage station on the second floor, which is a thoughtful touch. On the first floor, they also sell snacks and instant noodles, and I always wanted to buy a pack or two after coming back. There's even an antique car display on the first floor. Overall, it's very clean and welcoming. It’s a great place for families to relax and travel.

A great place to stay very close to Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

As mentioned in other reviews, both breakfast and dinner were a bit underwhelming. For dinner, I ordered the 100% beef hamburger and Mexican salad. The salad was delicious, and the burger was wonderfully meaty. Breakfast consisted of scrambled eggs, ham and sausage, salad, and yogurt. The sesame bread was delicious. However, the coffee was lukewarm and undrinkable. The public bath felt quite small; it gets crowded quickly with just five people. A group of seniors had monopolized it, chatting loudly, so I just quickly washed up, spent about 5 minutes in the outdoor bath, and left. Such a pity! With no other option, I was able to relax in the private bath on the balcony, enjoying the hazy moonlight. The shuttle bus service was convenient.