Kyukamura Iwate-Amiharionsen
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 157 reviews
Kyukamura Iwate-Amihari Onsen is a hillside mountain lodge that blends traditional Japanese guestroom styles with practical resort services, offering a mix of tatami rooms and western rooms across a medium-sized property. Perched on the slopes below Mount Iwate, the property presents broad views over forest and valley from many rooms and public areas; housekeeping maintains a straightforward, guest-focused service pattern and the hotel operates shuttle links to nearby transport nodes and ski facilities. As a ryokan with onsen in Tohoku, it positions itself as an accessible base for both winter sports and summer hiking, with on-site ski lift access and a small network of walking trails immediately adjacent to the grounds.
The onsen offering is the defining feature: the complex draws from the Amihari hot springs and divides the flow into several distinct bathing sites, including indoor baths, open-air rotemburo and a hotel-linked public onsen complex that together let guests circuit the different waters. The springs are sourced from the volcanic area around Mount Iwate and comprise simple and mildly sulfuric spring types; the property highlights a historic local bathing tradition and encourages guests to sample multiple baths rather than private in-room bathing, so this is best described as a ryokan with onsen in Iwate Prefecture rather than a facility focused on private in-room springs.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kyukamura Iwate-Amiharionsen
Positive Reviews
Excellent food and buffet options
Many guests praised the breakfast and dinner buffets for variety and quality, noting fresh local ingredients, a wide selection of Japanese dishes, and standout items like fresh milk and yogurt.
Lovely onsens and hot springs
Reviewers repeatedly highlighted multiple onsens as a major draw—described as lovely, relaxing, and a key part of the experience (several guests called the hot springs excellent).
Great location for skiing and nature
The hotel is frequently noted as being right next to the ski lift or with easy access to the slopes, and guests enjoyed the surrounding nature, views, and mountain setting.
Friendly, helpful staff and cleanliness
Many reviews mention polite, helpful staff and good cleanliness standards, with several guests specifically praising staff service and the well-organised operations.
Good value and traditional atmosphere
Guests found the ryokan to offer fantastic value for money, enjoying the traditional experience (futon beds, no in-room showers) and restful surroundings.
Negative Reviews
Temporary restaurant/renovation
At least one guest reported the terrace/restaurant was under renovation and the temporary dining setup was less ideal; renovation was expected to be completed in July.
Small ski area/limited slopes
Several guests noted the local ski resort is relatively small with few lifts and courses, making it better suited for short ski holidays rather than extensive skiing.
Limited or inconvenient transport options
Some reviewers mentioned that access can be inconvenient and that transport choices are limited, requiring use of the scheduled shuttle or plans in advance.
Poor soundproofing and room temperature control
A few guests reported issues with noise due to limited soundproofing and at least one review mentioned a room heater that was too hot and could not be adjusted.
Aging facilities and occasional cleanliness/onsen concerns
There were comments about parts of the property feeling a bit aged and isolated reports of bugs; a small number of guests raised concerns about onsen water appearance or minor cleanliness issues and a desire for clearer English signage in bathing areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms include twin Western rooms for two and Japanese-style rooms with futons for families (typically 4–5 futons for family rooms); check availability for exact occupancy per room type. Cribs and extra beds are not available.
The property has multiple natural onsen and open-air baths that are primarily public; general bathing hours are morning (about 5:30–10:00) and afternoon to late evening (around 14:00–24:00). For specific bath areas and timing, confirm at check‑in.
Private rental of onsen is not listed as a standard service; if you need a private option for a group, contact the hotel directly to ask about special arrangements. Availability for private use may be limited.
A complimentary shuttle runs between JR Morioka Station (West Exit) and the hotel with several scheduled departures each day; reservations are required by the previous day. From the airport, transfers typically go via Morioka Station where you can catch the hotel shuttle.
The ryokan is roughly an hour by public transport/car from Iwate Hanamaki Airport (about 60 km/40 miles); common routes are a train or bus to Morioka Station followed by the hotel shuttle, or a direct taxi/rental car. Check timings and shuttle reservations in advance.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 (3:00 PM) until around 19:00 (7:00 PM) and check-out is by 10:00 AM. If you expect to arrive outside those hours, notify the hotel ahead of time.
Pets are not allowed on the property. For private hire or exclusive group use of facilities, contact the hotel’s reservations team to discuss options and availability.
There is an on-site shop open in the morning and evening for snacks and basic items. For a full supermarket selection you will likely need to visit Morioka or the nearest town; the front desk can give directions.
The ryokan serves buffet-style meals featuring local Iwate ingredients; breakfast is generally 07:00–09:00 and dinner around 17:30–20:30, with a lunch service for visitors mid-day. Meal plans are commonly offered with accommodation bookings.
Japanese is the primary language, but the website and some signage are available in English and staff can assist in English to a degree. Expect a traditional ryokan experience with tatami or futon rooms, yukata, communal onsen bathing, and regional buffet cuisine.