I love cold weather and snow, so that part of Northern Honshu was perfect for me. I also have family in the area to drive me to Zao, which is a lot easier than taking the bus! This hotel is clearly on the older side, but that really didn't detract from the whole experience, which was positive. The bath was relaxing and though it wasn't large, I never felt over crowded. The beds were comfortable~ sort of an amalgam of futon and boxspring. Though I wish they were on the tatami, it was nice that they were by the windows. I am pretty sure I've been in those particular onsen baths before, so I am wondering if this hotel has existed in the past under different ownership with a different name.