I’m no expert by any means, but having had the opportunity to experience two ryokans this trip (first in Osaka, then Kyoto) with similar prices but vastly different quality, I feel compelled to compare and comment.
Service: Generally felt rushed during our stay. Check-in was technically at 3pm but shuttle was at 4pm, so we did not arrive until 4:30. Similarly, check out was at 10am, but shuttle was at 9:20. At breakfast, there was a sign nudging you to pay before 10am as it gets busy then. For an experience that’s suppose to be relaxing, this took away from it.
Room: In dire need of renovation. Room was visibly old and had a musty smell from the moment of walking in. There would be whiffs of piss when the AC wasn’t circulating air. In-room baths were stained and scary to look at, let alone use
Bath: Public bath was tiny so naturally, everyone opts to pay extra to book a slot in one of the two private baths on the property. Depending on when you check in, you may not get a slot until the next morning. That said, the private bath had incredible views and was the highlight of this experience, for sure.
Food: Mediocre at best compared our first experience, which we had in-room. Presentation was good, but flavors were just a bit off. Breakfast was better than dinner.
All in all, our Osaka ryokan experience felt like luxury hotel with spa with authenticity while this felt more like a beat down budget hotel turned tourist trap.