Azumakan
8,4/10 Excellent - Based on 94 reviews
Azumakan sits on the slopes of the Adatara area, presenting a balanced mix of traditional and contemporary lodging across Japanese-style and twin rooms. The property draws its water from a source-flowing acidic spring long prized locally as a “beauty” bath, and its public bathing facilities include indoor and open-air hot pools plus a sauna that emphasize restorative soaking rather than luxury frills. As a practical stay it offers on-site dining with a buffet-style live kitchen showcasing regional ingredients, a bakery and retail area focused on local specialties, and amenities such as free parking and luggage storage.
The ryokan with onsen in Nihommatsu centres its guest experience on the thermal facilities and accessible communal spaces: a large bathing complex with terrace views, a family-friendly pool, and several relaxation spots that range from a footbath by a fireplace to an elevated sauna with panoramic sightlines. Guest rooms are equipped with basic modern comforts—air conditioning, electric kettles and private bathrooms—while public areas host seasonal programming and casual dining options geared toward groups and families. Staff-run services include shuttle arrangements to nearby transit points and a reception able to advise on local walks and seasonal events.
For visitors planning excursions into the Adatara foothills or the wider prefecture, the property functions as a convenient base, combining straightforward transport links with easy access to countryside hiking and nearby attractions. The atmosphere is calm and service-oriented, suitable for couples, families and solo travellers seeking a mid-range ryokan with onsen in Fukushima that prioritizes communal bathing, regional cuisine and a practical set of on-site facilities rather than boutique exclusivity. Booking logistics and seasonal offers are handled directly by the property’s reservation channels.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Azumakan
Positive Reviews
High-quality onsen and bathing facilities
Several guests praised the hot spring water and enjoyed using the onsen multiple times; reviewers also mentioned a pleasant onsen atmosphere, indoor pool availability and that the baths were a highlight of their stay.
Friendly, helpful staff
Many reviews highlight attentive and accommodating staff — helping with requests (e.g. yukata selection, supplying welcome drinks out of hours), showing good customer service and creating a welcoming atmosphere for families and children.
Delicious buffet meals and breakfast
Multiple guests commented that the buffet breakfast and dinner offered many choices and were very tasty; the croissants and overall variety at breakfast were noted positively.
Clean, spacious rooms with authentic style
Guests appreciated large, clean rooms that provided an authentic Japanese-style experience; rooms were described as bright, comfortable and well-appointed by several reviewers.
Family-friendly facilities and convenient location for some attractions
Families reported good on-site activities for children (pool, summer events, stamp rallies), and some guests found the hotel conveniently close to Ebisu Circuit by car.
Negative Reviews
Access and signage difficulties
Several reviewers found the property hard to reach without a car — confusing walking directions from the bus stop, few or hard-to-see signs, and lengthy or complex routes from the road to the hotel.
Cleanliness and minor hygiene issues
Some guests reported dust or dirt on surfaces, found hair on pillows when preparing futons, and encountered insects in rooms — issues that left a negative impression despite overall cleanliness comments.
Booking, cancellation and meal-plan confusion
At least one guest experienced problems with booking/cancellation (charged despite change in party) and meal-plan inconsistencies — selected meals not reflected in confirmations and difficulty adding dinner after booking.
Facility layout and equipment drawbacks
Problems included long/complicated routes from rooms to large baths (multiple elevators), male-bath equipment seen as insufficient by one reviewer, rough walking surfaces to the open-air bath, and mattresses described as too soft or poorly ventilated.
Inconsistent evening food variety and occasional quality issues
While many praised the food, several guests noted limited dinner choices on some nights and specific items (e.g. steak) that were tough or disappointing, indicating uneven evening menu quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Japanese-style rooms with futons can accommodate up to around six guests, while twin and standard rooms are suited for one to two guests; check the specific room description when booking.
Azumakan offers public indoor and open-air hot spring baths and a sauna; onsen hours include early morning and evening sessions and tattoos are generally not allowed in public baths—contact the front desk about private alternatives.
Yes, a free shuttle from JR Nihonmatsu Station is available but requires a reservation; pickup times are typically mid‑afternoon, so confirm the exact schedule with the hotel before arrival.
Fukushima Airport is about 56 km away; from JR Nihonmatsu Station take the hotel shuttle (reservation required), a local bus (about 20 minutes) or a taxi (around 20 minutes) to Dake Onsen.
Staff typically provide service in Japanese and can assist in English for common guest needs, though availability of fluent English speakers may vary—the front desk can help arrange support if needed.
Expect a mix of traditional ryokan elements—yukata, tatami-style rooms and futon sleeping options—combined with resort facilities such as communal onsen, sauna and local cuisine served in the restaurant.
Popular nearby options include Mt. Adatara and its ski area, Tohoku Safari Park, Mount Bandai and local hiking or seasonal sightseeing; the front desk can advise routes and transport options.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 and check‑out is by 10:00; shuttle pickup times and specific check‑in windows can vary by plan, so confirm times when you book.
Pets are not permitted on the property; private bathing may be arranged on request subject to availability—contact the hotel in advance to reserve a private bath if needed.
The ryokan has an on‑site restaurant with buffet breakfast and dinner (dinner sometimes limited to overnight plans) plus a café/bakery; there are few shops immediately nearby, so plan to buy supplies in Nihonmatsu if required.