Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Kokarian
9,7/10 Exceptional - Based on 19 reviews
Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Kokarian is a small traditional inn tucked into the wooded valley of Yuwaku Onsen, a historic hot‑spring hamlet just outside central Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture. The property advertises only four guest rooms with a total capacity around fifteen, creating an intimate atmosphere where rooms blend tatami space with contemporary comforts. Several room types feature their own in‑room soaking tubs or a courtyard bath, making Kokarian a compact ryokan with onsen option for visitors wanting direct hot‑spring access while remaining close to Kenrokuen and Kanazawa’s cultural quarter.
Guest accommodations are fitted with air conditioning, a kettle and refreshments, a refrigerator/minibar and a flat‑screen TV; bathrooms include modern fixtures and supplied linens. The ryokan maintains an onsen bathing option and promotes room layouts that include private soaking facilities or jacuzzi‑style baths for secluded enjoyment. Practical facilities include complimentary Wi‑Fi and on‑site parking, and the staff handle reservations and local arrangements; the village also offers a nearby communal bath and a public footbath for daytime visitors who prefer a communal onsen experience.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kanazawa Yuwaku Onsen Kokarian
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive hospitality
Staff are repeatedly praised for being extremely friendly and accommodating — they graciously handled late arrivals, went out of their way to help guests, and used translation tools when needed to assist non‑Japanese speakers.
Private in‑room onsen and spacious rooms
Many guests loved having a private onsen attached to their room; rooms are described as large, luxurious and relaxing, with adjustable water temperature for a comfortable soak.
Excellent, abundant local cuisine
Dinner and breakfast receive high marks for quality and quantity, featuring seasonal Ishikawa specialties and thoughtful presentation; several guests described the meals as top‑notch or divine.
Complimentary amenities and useful services
Guests appreciated extras such as free drinks (beer, juices), ice cream, snacks and high‑quality shower products, as well as practical services like a free shuttle to/from the train station.
Beautiful, peaceful location
The ryokan is praised for its fantastic setting in a walkable mountain village with nature trails and traditional relocated Edo houses, contributing to an overall memorable experience.
Negative Reviews
Limited English spoken by staff
Some guests noted that staff generally do not speak English; while employees often adapt using translation apps, this language limitation could be a drawback for some visitors.
Room temperature control issues
At least one guest reported difficulty setting the room temperature, experiencing swings between too hot and too cold that affected sleep quality.
Occasional complaints about food seasoning
Although most guests loved the meals, one review found the food bland — indicating that seasoning or personal taste preferences may vary.
Noisy ventilation fan in rooms
One guest mentioned a loud ventilation fan (possibly for COVID measures) that had to be switched off to sleep, which could disturb sensitive sleepers.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan is very small with 4 rooms and a total capacity for about 15 guests.
Yes; rooms include a private spa/hot-spring bath for guest use.
A shuttle from Kanazawa Station is available on request but only at set times; there is no regular airport shuttle, so taxis or public transport are recommended from Komatsu Airport.
You can take the Hokutetsu bus from the East Exit (No.7) or a taxi; a taxi ride typically takes around 40 minutes.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 to 18:30 and check‑out is by 10:00.
The property and local listings indicate multilingual/English‑speaking staff are available, but it’s best to confirm any specific language needs in advance.
The ryokan serves traditional Kaga/Japanese cuisine with an Asian breakfast option; dinner is typically a local multi‑course meal using regional ingredients—confirm meal plans when booking.
Pets are not allowed; since many rooms include private in‑room baths, you have private hot‑spring use within your room.
Yuwaku is a quiet mountain onsen village with nature trails and relocated Edo houses; major Kanazawa sights such as Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle are a short drive away.
Yuwaku is a small village with limited shops; for groceries and convenience stores head into central Kanazawa, or ask the ryokan staff for local directions and suggestions.