Since the town's pretty small, everything's within walking distance. Just follow the cobbled street towards park entrance, slight uphill climb but manageable with wheelies & backpacks. Inn was on the left, easily spotted by its colorful banners. Else watch out for the majestic Dai-ichi Takimotokan - inn's directly across.

Trudged up a flight of earthy-red steps with luggage to reception at 1st floor. Elderly & physically challenged travellers, those with heavy luggage can do better with the elevator at end of restaurant - walk through on the left towards the kitchen. Party stories on how small Japanese hotel rooms could be can certainly be shared after a stay at Takimoto Inn. Our room was pretty tight with 3 single beds, small TV, small fridge, small table, small wire rack & heater near window. With us & luggage, it was jam-packed. Had to stand aside to allow another to pass, else sit on beds to keep passages free of obstruction :-D Bathroom was, as expected, tiny but functional. Decor tad jaded. As bed comforters looked a little suspect, folded them back for minimal contact. View out of room was of main street & little bit of park - nothing to shout about. Metal room door completed the package.

Spent the afternoon at the park & got caught in a sudden downpour. Visited the inn's indoor onsen to chase away the cold. Water was so hot, felt a little parboiled after a while. As the small tub could discretely accomodate 2-3 ppl max, guests could go next door to Dai-ichi which was the inn's sister hotel ie. access to all facilities were free of charge incl onsen, sauna, jacuzzi, swimming pool, waterslides, video & games arcade. Jap set dinner was substantial, more than other hotels we'd stayed at. Excellent sampler of Jap favorites such as sashimi, teppanyaki, tempura, smoked fish plus a variety of condiments. Dessert of fruits was served after. Inn provided plenty of umbrellas for guests' use - came in handy for after-dinner stroll in the rain & window-shopping.

Following morning, we zipped across to Dai-ichi in our yukatas. Remember to bring along the inn's towel (no need for toiletries as onsens provide shower gels, soaps, shampoos). 7 indoor & outdoor pools of various shapes, sizes, temperatures & healing properties complete with instructions for use ie. which pools to dip in, where to start & end, etc. Some fiery hot, some ice cold. Enjoyed the outdoor pool best as light drizzle cooled us down - would be amazing during winter. Unfortunately a misstep whilst entering the pool caused my shin to have a close encounter with a stony wall & a chafing souvenir to take home. Ouch!

Smaller than average array for buffet breakfast but sufficient to fill hungry tummies. Altho' the inn lacked the fancier facilities, one could easily pop next door to its sister hotel at no extra charge. Probably full occupancy during peak seasons with free access to Dai-ichi, located near park entrance & shops/restaurants on main street.