Fodor's Expert Review Yoshidaya Ryokan

If you are looking for a casual ryokan experience as a stepping off point for skiing or hiking trips, this maze of interconnected hallways and varied rooms with English-speaking staff might be the place for you. While the food the ryokan serves is quite good, the location also allows for easy jaunts to local establishments nearby. It's also close to several of Zao's public onsen that are open to anyone, work on the honor system (drop your ¥200 into the wooden box), and are a good place to have a chat with locals. The ryokan does have private showers for those who aren't up for the chatting.