焼石岳温泉 ひめかゆ
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 9 reviews
焼石岳温泉 ひめかゆ sits on the wooded flank of Mount Yakushi, framed by the ridgelines of the Kurikoma area and seasonal streams. The property presents traditional tatami rooms and public relaxation spaces designed to foreground views of the surrounding hills, with large windows and an outdoor terrace that bring the forested setting into the guest experience. Positioned as a regional retreat, this ryokan with onsen in Iwate emphasizes restorative stays aimed at combining nature, simple luxury and local hospitality rather than urban conveniences.
The bathing facilities center on two independently sourced hot springs, one drawn from deep underground at high temperature and the other identified as a sodium‑chloride spring noted for heat retention and skin‑conditioning properties. Baths include a main indoor bathing hall, an open‑air onsen with mountain views and a sauna, each supplied by a different spring to let visitors compare mineralities. Towels and basic amenities are provided; the property also manages guest flow at peak times and posts standard onsen etiquette for a calm communal experience.
Dining follows a seasonal, local focus: multi‑course Japanese meals highlight nearby produce and regional specialties such as branded beef, while mornings offer a breakfast service that mixes set dishes with a modest self‑service option. Rooms are straightforward, traditionally styled and intended for quiet relaxation after outdoor activities that range from hiking and skiing in winter to riverside walks in summer. Practical facilities include free parking and bicycle rental, making the property a convenient ryokan with onsen Sekibukuro, Iwate base for exploring the surrounding natural and cultural attractions.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: 焼石岳温泉 ひめかゆ
Positive Reviews
Helpful, accommodating staff
Staff were praised for being friendly and responsive—helping late-night arrivals access the bath and arranging an extra room on short notice for a large party.
Good onsen (alkaline hot spring) experience
The hot spring was described as an alkaline, slightly brown bath that left skin feeling smooth; guests appreciated being able to use the onsen even after late arrival.
Well-equipped rooms and amenities
Rooms included useful amenities such as toiletries, a SALONIA hairdryer and a drip coffee maker, which guests found convenient and enjoyable.
Suitable for groups and families
Multiple guests stayed with family or groups and noted the property accommodated group needs, making it a practical choice for shared stays.
Negative Reviews
Slow email responses
Several guests reported that email replies were slow and recommended contacting the property by phone or via the website inquiry form for faster communication.
Breakfast limited or unsatisfactory
Some guests found the morning buffet lacking in variety or were unable to have breakfast, expressing disappointment with the breakfast offering.
Noisy air conditioning unit
At least one guest reported that the air conditioner was somewhat noisy, which affected their comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are mainly Japanese-style (19 rooms) plus one Western room; Japanese rooms use futons and accommodate from about 2 up to 6 guests depending on the room type — confirm exact occupancy when booking.
The ryokan has two separate natural hot spring sources with different water qualities, a large indoor bath, an open-air bath with mountain views and a sauna for guests to use.
Private or reservable baths are not listed among the standard facilities; contact the property directly before arrival to ask about any private-bath options or reservations.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the nearest airport is Iwate-Hanamaki (about 47 km), and local buses run to Himekayu from the JR Mizusawa area (roughly 30–40 minutes); the property asks guests to inform them of arrival times.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; the official site offers English information but English support at the front desk may be limited, so contact the ryokan in advance if you need assistance in English.
Standard check-in is between 15:00 and 18:00, and check-out is between 08:00 and 10:00; you should notify the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance.
This property does not accept children, and pets are not permitted on the premises.
The ryokan is in a rural area with no supermarket on site; the nearest convenience stores and supermarkets are in the wider Mizusawa/Esashi area and are typically a 20–40 minute drive away, so plan accordingly.
Meals focus on local seasonal Japanese cuisine — dinner is usually a set Japanese course and breakfast is served buffet-style; private dining rooms and banquet facilities are available for meals.
Highlights include Mount Yakeishi (about 5 minutes by car), the nearby dam/Oshu Lake and Himekayu ski area; historic sites such as Hiraizumi and Esashi Fujiwara Heritage Park are around 40–45 minutes by car for day trips.