Hotel New Nishino

This hotel's signature feature is its exceptional natural hot springs and sauna facilities, which are consistently highlighted as a major draw for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Situated in the heart of the Tenmonkan entertainment district, it offers unparalleled convenience for exploring local dining and nightlife. While the building itself has a retro charm and shows its age, many guests find the renovated areas clean and comfortable. The hotel is particularly well-suited for sauna enthusiasts and business travelers looking to unwind after a long day, as well as solo travelers and couples seeking a unique and authentic Japanese bathhouse experience. The attentive staff also contributes to a welcoming atmosphere. To ensure a comfortable stay, guests sensitive to noise should consider bringing earplugs due to the lively surroundings, and it is advisable to confirm the onsen's operating hours and any specific schedules, such as ladies' day, prior to arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's primary appeal lies in its extensive natural hot springs and sauna facilities, which are a highlight for most guests. The main sauna is spacious, accommodating many people, and there is also a distinct steam sauna with a unique woody aroma. Guests appreciate the cold plunge pool, which is noted for its comfortable temperature. Staff regularly perform löyly service in the main sauna, enhancing the experience. However, some guests find the number of relaxation chairs in the bathing area to be insufficient, especially during peak times. A unique feature is the counter izakaya located within the sauna area, offering a convenient spot for post-sauna refreshments. While the main bathing facilities are not 24-hour, the unit baths in the rooms are well-equipped for convenience. The hotel also provides charging cables for various devices. A minor point of concern for some is the single elevator, which can lead to waiting times, particularly during busy periods.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The room condition often reflects the hotel's age, with many guests describing a distinct "Showa era" feel. While some rooms, particularly those on the top floor, have been renovated and are praised for their cleanliness and comfort, others report issues such as a persistent musty smell or even mold, which some found irritating to their throat and nose. Noise levels are a significant concern for many, with reports of external street noise from the lively entertainment district disturbing sleep, and poor soundproofing leading to audible sounds from neighboring rooms. Some guests also noted refrigerator noise within the room. The absence of adequate night lighting and the presence of overly soft pillows were also mentioned as affecting pillow comfort. Additionally, a recurring complaint is the extremely weak shower water pressure in the unit baths, which some found frustrating despite the availability of the main public bath.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel generally receives mixed feedback. It is typically offered as a set menu rather than a buffet, with options like sashimi and sea bream chazuke. While some guests found the food quality to be good and appreciated the taste, particularly the sashimi, others were disappointed, citing issues such as lukewarm water for the sea bream chazuke and a perceived lack of enthusiasm from staff. The on-site restaurant or izakaya is highly praised for its delicious local cuisine, with many guests enjoying the quality and portion sizes of the dishes. However, some found the dining hours to be inconvenient, noting that dinner service concludes relatively early, around 8 PM, which necessitated rushing meals. Despite these points, the overall value for money regarding dining is often considered reasonable.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, situated directly in the heart of the Tenmonkan entertainment district. This prime spot offers guests exceptional convenience, with numerous restaurants, shops, and convenience stores just steps away, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot. While the vibrant surroundings are a major advantage for those seeking nightlife and dining options, some guests note that the area can be quite lively and noisy late into the night, potentially affecting sleep. For guests arriving by car, parking is available, typically at an additional charge, with both affiliated options and nearby public lots. The hotel also provides a secure, covered motorcycle parking area, which is a significant benefit for touring bikers, though it's advisable to reserve in advance due to limited space.

Staff & Service
Guests consistently praise the staff helpfulness and overall friendly staff at the hotel. Many reviewers highlight the attentive service provided by various team members, from the front desk to the restaurant and bathhouse attendants. The quick check-in process is frequently mentioned, contributing to a smooth arrival experience. Guests appreciate the staff's willingness to assist with inquiries and their polite demeanor, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Some describe the staff as experienced staff and very professional, ensuring that guests feel well-cared for throughout their stay. Even when issues arise, the staff are noted for their prompt and courteous responses, demonstrating a strong commitment to customer service. This positive interaction with the hotel team significantly enhances the overall guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests planning to utilize the hotel's renowned bathing facilities should be aware of specific policies regarding access. The onsen is primarily designed for male guests, with a designated ladies' day occurring on a specific schedule, which should be confirmed prior to booking if female guests wish to use the main bath. Furthermore, the onsen operating hours are not 24/7, and the facilities close overnight, so it is advisable to verify the exact schedule, including any löyly service times, to maximize enjoyment. For those traveling by motorcycle, the hotel offers convenient motorcycle parking in a covered, indoor area. While this is a valuable amenity, guests are advised to take their own security measures as the entrance to the parking area is not always secured, and to inform the hotel in advance, especially for late arrivals.