竹あかりの宿 加賀助
7,3/10 Very good - Based on 30 reviews
Tucked into the Ushigusu/Ōshuku hot-spring area, 竹あかりの宿 加賀助 presents a bamboo-lit design that blends traditional timber details with contemporary guest amenities. The property markets itself as a ryokan with onsen in Iwate Prefecture and operates its baths as natural, continuously fed hot springs; a large, sixth-floor public bath offers elevated views while indoor bathing areas rotate between men and women on a daily schedule. Day-use bathing is available on select days and the establishment enforces a no-tattoo policy for public baths.
Meals emphasize local produce with an irori-style buffet and a live kitchen that frames evening dining; certain plans include an all‑inclusive package that covers a range of food and drink options. Onsite facilities include a sauna, a restaurant and bar, communal lounge spaces, free Wi‑Fi and luggage storage, plus parking. Practical services aimed at regional travelers include a complimentary shuttle from the main station (advance reservation typically required) and family-friendly room configurations that accommodate groups and multigenerational stays. As a ryokan with onsen Iwate, it balances communal bathing culture with accessible modern conveniences.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: 竹あかりの宿 加賀助
Positive Reviews
Friendly and attentive staff
Multiple guests praised the staff’s hospitality and helpfulness, saying service made their stay pleasant and welcoming.
Generous all‑inclusive drinks and snacks
Several reviews highlighted the all‑inclusive offering—free soft drinks, ice cream, coffee and even alcoholic beverages—which guests enjoyed and found excellent value.
Tasty, carefully prepared meals
Many guests commented that the food was delicious and presented with care, with some describing the dining experience as a highlight of their stay.
Clean lobby and bathing areas / enjoyable onsen
Reviewers noted the lobby and outdoor baths were clean; some specifically found the onsen comfortable and well maintained.
Family‑friendly amenities and entertainment
Families appreciated child‑friendly touches (toys), free drinks, karaoke and other leisure options that allowed children and adults to relax together.
Negative Reviews
Outdated facilities and rooms
Several guests reported that parts of the ryokan feel old or in need of renovation, with worn areas detracting from the overall impression.
Toilet facilities (many still Japanese‑style and narrow)
Multiple reviewers pointed out that some toilet areas remain narrow or traditional squat (Japanese‑style), which is inconvenient for children, elderly guests and those with mobility issues; one asked that shared toilets be updated to Western style.
Onsen water sometimes too hot
At least one guest found the hot springs uncomfortably hot, indicating temperature may be too high for some visitors.
Dinner temperature and meal service issues
Some guests said several dinner items were served lukewarm or cold rather than hot, which reduced enjoyment of the meal for them.
Room comfort and temperature problems
A few guests experienced discomfort in rooms (for example feeling too hot at night, issues with bedding suitability), which affected sleep quality for some visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by type; standard Japanese rooms typically sleep up to four on futons, while some larger rooms can accommodate up to five — check the specific room description when booking.
Yes — the onsen uses 100% natural flowing spring water in the public baths and sauna; guests with visible tattoos may be refused entry, so notify the ryokan in advance if this applies.
A complimentary shuttle operates between Morioka (and some services from Shizukuishi) station and the ryokan; reservations are required at least three days before arrival and set pick‑up times apply.
From Iwate‑Hanamaki (Hanamaki) Airport, take the bus or train to Morioka station, then use the ryokan’s reserved shuttle or a taxi; total transfer time from Morioka to the ryokan is about 45 minutes.
Check‑in is usually from 15:00 to 18:00 and check‑out is by 10:00; the ryokan requests you inform them of your expected arrival time in advance.
The property promotes communal large baths and a sauna but does not list dedicated private family baths on its facilities page; contact the ryokan directly to ask about private or reserved options.
Pets are not permitted at the ryokan, and families are welcome — the hotel accepts children but does not provide extra rollaway/baby beds so choose a room suitable for your group size.
Dinner and breakfast are served buffet‑style using local ingredients, and an all‑inclusive lounge offers drinks and snacks; please inform the ryokan in advance of any dietary restrictions.
Japanese is the primary language; some English information is available on the website and staff can provide basic English assistance, but contact the ryokan ahead if you need extended English support.
Nearby highlights include Ai Falls (about a 15‑minute walk), Lake Goshoko (approximately an 8‑minute drive) and Koiwai Farm (around 30 minutes by car); the area is also good for hiking and seasonal events.