Wakamatsu Honten

If you're looking for an authentic Ryokan experience, this is the place to be. The location is unbeatable for Narita-san, and if you want to enjoy the Goma ritual in peace and quiet, this is the perfect spot to avoid the crowds. A true landmark with a rich history.

During a typhoon, the hotel disregarded guest safety and insisted that guests physically come to the hotel for check-in. This is simply outrageous.

After a tiring flight from North America to Narita, I decided to stay at this hotel for a night to rest. I wanted to see the old town, so I chose this place. Overall, it was okay, but not really necessary. Upon arriving after a long-haul flight, I encountered the weekend Eel Festival, which meant all roads were closed. My taxi driver and I circled many times but couldn't reach the hotel entrance. Eventually, the driver helped me drag my two large suitcases several hundred meters to the hotel. The staff's attitude was so-so, and they could speak a little English. Check-out was strictly at 10 AM (my flight the next day was past 6 PM). I asked if I could extend it a bit, but was firmly refused. I ended up having to pay extra to get a 12 PM check-out. After checking out, there wasn't really a place to store luggage, so if you have valuables, you need to be careful. The room was Japanese-style, so there was no private shower. You had to go to the public bath. I have a small tattoo, so I went in, discreetly used the low shower by the entrance for a quick rinse, and then went back to my room. Washing my hair properly would have been difficult unless you're willing to sit on those low wooden stools where everyone else sits naked. Honestly, every time I go to a Japanese onsen, I end up with a urinary tract infection. Their resistance must be better. Those wooden stools in a damp environment, used by many people – if you dare to sit, be my guest. Sleeping on the tatami mat on the floor was generally fine, not uncomfortable. However, kneeling at the low table on the floor to drink tea or pour water was really uncomfortable. Breakfast the next day was quite unique, with various small, unfamiliar foods that were interesting. But the food itself wasn't particularly delicious; the rice was very chewy, so I barely touched it. I've stayed at other airport hotels like Toyoko Inn, and they are perfectly adequate and much, much cheaper. The main draw here is the old town and temples, which are very convenient. If you're tired after a long flight, this place feels a bit like a white elephant.