Hayamakan
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 302 reviews
Hayamakan is a mid-sized ryokan set on a quiet hillside in the Kaminoyama Onsen area, combining tatami-floored Japanese rooms and a selection of Western-style rooms to suit different preferences. The property has 32 rooms and offers garden and mountain views toward the Zao range; rooms are furnished with traditional yukata, tea-making facilities and either futon or Western beds depending on type. Its location close to the town’s hot-spring district makes it a practical choice for visitors seeking a ryokan with onsen in Kaminoyama while remaining within easy reach of local attractions such as the castle and nearby ropeways.
Bathing facilities include both public indoor and outdoor onsen as well as baths attached to several guest rooms, many of which feature hinoki (Japanese cypress) tubs supplied with natural hot spring water; family/private bathing options are also available by reservation. Meals follow a seasonal multi-course approach, served in private dining areas to preserve privacy and focus on local Yamagata ingredients. On-site services and shared spaces include a lounge with garden views, a small shop, and a library-style sitting room, and the property operates a shuttle service from JR Kaminoyama Onsen station on request while offering complimentary parking for guests.
The character of Hayamakan is oriented toward travelers who value a calm, restorative stay—couples and families in particular report appreciation for private bathing and quiet communal spaces—while practical ties to the region make day excursions straightforward. Staff assist with transport and local recommendations, and the mix of private room baths and public facilities positions the property clearly as a ryokan with private onsen Yamagata for visitors seeking both personal and communal hot-spring experiences.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hayamakan
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, attentive staff
Many guests praised friendly, helpful and professional staff who go out of their way to assist with requests, language help and forgotten belongings, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Excellent food and plentiful meals
Multiple reviews highlight delicious, locally sourced breakfasts and multi-course dinners served in private dining rooms; portions are generous and presentation is attentive.
High-quality onsen experience (private & public)
Guests enjoyed well-maintained communal onsens and private in-room baths, describing them as relaxing, revitalizing and a major highlight of the stay.
Beautiful, comfortable rooms and views
Rooms are described as spacious, clean and tastefully decorated with many photo spots; several rooms have lovely mountain or pond views.
Convenient shuttle service and location
The free shuttle to the station and easy walking access to local attractions were appreciated and considered helpful for exploring the area.
Negative Reviews
Seasonal insects limiting ventilation
Some guests reported stink bugs during certain seasons, which prevented them from fully opening doors or windows to enjoy outdoor baths, despite screens being available.
Housekeeping / wear issues in some rooms
A few reviews mentioned cleanliness or upkeep concerns such as mould on bathroom shutters and stains on carpets, suggesting targeted maintenance or renewal may be needed.
Spotty Wi‑Fi connection
At least one guest experienced frequent Wi‑Fi disconnections, noting unreliable internet that affected multiple devices.
In‑room bath preparation time
One review pointed out that the in-room hot bath can take a long time to fill with hot spring water and suggested pre-filling before guest arrival to improve convenience.
Noise or music choice in communal lounge
A guest found the coffee lounge music too loud and not suitably relaxing (rock/pop), recommending calmer background music to match the ryokan atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are mostly Japanese-style with futons and range from single/twin layouts up to rooms that sleep four; some room types are set up for 2–4 guests depending on the plan.
Yes — all rooms feature a private in‑room hot‑spring bath fed from the property’s natural source.
Hayamakan has public indoor and open‑air hot‑spring baths in addition to private in‑room baths; guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from public bathing areas and some rules (quiet hours) apply.
A free shuttle is available from JR Kaminoyama Onsen Station (about a 5‑minute drive) and you should request pickup in advance when you book or notify the property of your arrival time.
The easiest route is to travel by air to a regional airport and continue by train or bus to Yamagata area, then take a local train to JR Kaminoyama Onsen Station followed by the hotel shuttle or a short taxi ride; please allow time for transfers and check schedules in advance.
Staff provide basic English assistance and can help arrange transfers or services, but language support is limited, so note any special requests on booking or contact the hotel before arrival.
Evening meals are traditional multi‑course Japanese menus (kaiseki) and breakfast is a Japanese set; meals are typically served in private dining rooms or according to the plan you select.
Hayamakan sits near Kaminoyama Castle and offers easy access to the Zao mountain area (ropeways and scenery); popular day trips include local onsen towns and seasonal sightseeing in Yamagata Prefecture.
Pets are not allowed on the property; rooms offer private in‑room baths for personal use and private/family bath options should be requested in advance if available.
The ryokan has an on‑site shop and free parking, while convenience stores and supermarkets are available near JR Kaminoyama Onsen Station for basic supplies.