Yoyokaku in Karatsu

This is a gem. The hotel is right at the end of the rainbow pine forest. With a few steps, you can see Maizuru Castle. The city of Karatsu is not very large. We can easily walk to the castle or dining places. The onsen is not very large. But the place has been kept in its traditional Japanese style. Very cosy and classic. The dinner is served in the room. It is elegant and delicious. I find that this hotel is in several collections of fine Japanese traditional hotels. This is some kind of reputation.

One of the most beautiful places we've stayed in Japan with a lovely garden, exquisite food, and a great collection of local ceramics. We were lucky enough to meet the owner and he very kindly shared his knowledge of local potters and places to visit. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

Staying at Yōyōkaku felt less like a hotel and more like being welcomed into a beautiful, historic home. Everything about our stay was absolutely perfect!

The Japanese garden is stunning and peaceful, and it was such a treat to meet the owner. He is a very kind man who stays right there on the property, which adds such a personal and authentic touch to the experience.

A very special thank you to the wonderful lady who looked after us. We were so impressed by how strong and energetic she was, serving us so many delicious courses of food with such a warm smile every time! Speaking of food, both breakfast and dinner were highlights of our trip—absolutely delicious.

We also really appreciated the shuttle service from the train station, and the communal hot spring bath, while small, was cozy and very relaxing. The location is also excellent for sightseeing, as it's just a short walk to Karatsu Castle.

The atmosphere here is so friendly and welcoming. Thank you to everyone at Yōyōkaku for making our visit so memorable. We truly felt the warmth of your hospitality!

This was an beautifully maintained, tranquil ryokan with very attentive staff who take great pride in the inn's 100 year old heritage and great breakfast.

We almost missed the entrance to the inn after parking - the staff spotted us and ushered us in. Proprietress in a kimono saw me carrying a bag of trash during check in and promptly took it away for me. Another lady carried our bags. Proprietress showed us around the inn in great english, then made us tea in our room. It felt very right being served tea the traditional way by a lady in kimono in the tatami scented Japanese room.

The room was wonderful and comfortable, private garden and all the grounds were amazing. Staff speak English and were very very very hospitable. Would love to be back!

This is a beautiful ryokan with fabulous rooms and a lovely garden. The staff are, without exception, absolutely wonderful. The food is excellent too. It’s a leisurely short walk to both the beach and the castle and only a 25 minute stroll or 6 minute taxi ride to Karatsu station. I couldn’t recommend it highly enough

very well maintained facilities although it's over 100 years old. Attentive service and overall experience was above expectations

very well maintained facilities although it's over 100 years old. Attentive service and overall experience was above expectations

The traditional Ryokan had great service and delicious food. The garden was also beautiful. I would like to visit again next time.

A traditional Japanese inn with a history of more than 100 years, full of atmosphere
The courtyard is very exquisite, and each room has a different design.
The service is attentive and the meals are exquisite
There is also a pottery exhibition in the hotel. The handmade pottery is very soulful and the price is reasonable.
If I have the chance, I hope to come back and stay a few more nights.

An antique and very unique Japanese hotel.
The hotel staff are very nice, warm and keep their distance from guests.
If the hotel can provide free shuttle service to Karatsu Station all day long, it will be impeccable.