This is a beautiful ryokan and the room itself was great. Peaceful, traditional, with a beautiful well-kept garden. Unfortunately, the staff spoke very poor English, to the point that communication was difficult. Also, they insisted on rigid timelines for breakfast and dinner: they come knocking on your door for each meal -- it felt a bit as if I am living in a dorm. Most importantly, I did not appreciate that you forced me to checkout at 10:30am, when the official checkout is 11am. No explanation given. Also, drinks during the "free" (included in price) kaiseki dinner are not free, and this was unclear -- I got a bill on the last day. Location of this ryokan is great and staff are very friendly. I just felt that they were a little intrusive in our days.