Bankokuya
8,2/10 Excellent - Based on 48 reviews
Bankokuya is a long-established ryokan set in the Atsumi hot-spring district near Tsuruoka, Yamagata, with a documented history of more than 300 years. The inn presents a measured blend of preserved traditional architecture and contemporary comforts, organized around free-flowing spring water drawn from the famous Atsumi source. Its scale and layout emphasize bathing and seasonal cuisine, so visitors commonly choose Bankokuya as a ryokan with onsen in Yamagata when seeking a comprehensive onsen resort experience on the Shonai coast.
The bathing facilities form the heart of the property: several large communal baths and garden open-air pools named Garden Sakura no Yu and Garden Sato no Yu sit within landscaped grounds, while Rakusan and Rakusui offer micro-bubble and spacious soaking options respectively; a Finnish-style barrel sauna is also installed. A range of guestroom types includes suites and special rooms furnished with private open-air or indoor Hinoki cypress baths fed directly by the spring, allowing guests to book a secluded soak — in short, the property functions as a ryokan with private onsen Tsuruoka for travelers who prioritise in-room thermal privacy.
Accommodations span traditional tatami rooms to multi-room suites with dedicated bathing, all non-smoking and equipped with modern amenities such as Wi‑Fi and bath amenities. Dining focuses on multi-course kaiseki menus that highlight Yamagata beef, local seafood and seasonal produce, with private dining options for groups and couples. Complementary features include garden views, barrier-free access and a range of guest services designed to support relaxation and local sightseeing, making the inn a practical base for exploring nearby cultural sites and coastal scenery.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Bankokuya
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen facilities and variety
Many guests praised the hot springs — multiple indoor/outdoor baths, saunas and a pleasant footbath area — describing them as clean, comfortable and a highlight of the stay.
Friendly, attentive staff and service
Reviewers frequently noted warm, helpful staff interactions, smooth check-out photo moments, and overall high service levels that made stays comfortable.
Good food and dining experience
Numerous reviews complimented the meals as delicious and satisfying, with several guests calling the cuisine a standout feature of their stay.
Clean, spacious and comfortable rooms/hotel atmosphere
Guests described rooms and common areas as clean, roomy and relaxing, with the ryokan’s traditional atmosphere and scale adding to a special, restful experience.
Family-friendly activities and amenities
Families appreciated on-site entertainment and facilities for children (events, table tennis), making the property suitable and enjoyable for groups with kids.
Negative Reviews
Insects around outdoor baths
Several guests reported flies, wasps or horseflies around the open-air baths, which made bathing less comfortable and occasionally felt unsafe; they asked for better pest measures.
Food service and quality inconsistencies
Some visitors experienced issues such as delayed rice service at dinner, perceived lack of freshness or limited variety in sashimi, and a desire for more affordable wine options or better portioning.
Lack of provided large towels for public baths
A few reviewers noted that the hotel did not supply fresh large dry towels in the public onsen changing rooms, meaning guests had to bring and carry their own towels.
Cleanliness and amenities concerns in some areas
A minority reported problems like a musty/moldy smell in the lobby, that large baths felt unclean in one stay, and limited bath amenities (e.g., few toiletries or low-quality razors).
Room signage, comfort and service small issues
Guests suggested clearer routing/signage for the outdoor baths, thicker futons/mattresses or additional bedding, improvements to in-room lighting/humidification, and clearer baggage handling expectations due to occasional service gaps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacities vary by type: standard tatami rooms are typically configured for 2 adults, while family rooms and futon layouts can sleep up to six guests; check the individual room description for exact maximum occupancy when booking.
Bankokuya offers a large open-air garden bath, traditional indoor wooden baths, a silk bath and a barrel sauna; bathing times for men and women are scheduled and displayed at the property.
Shuttle service can be arranged on request—guests should inform the ryokan of their arrival time; otherwise taxis and local buses connect from Atsumi Onsen Station.
Shonai Airport is the nearest airport, roughly a 30–35 km drive; from there you can take a taxi or transfer by public transport toward Atsumi Onsen.
The ryokan provides some English-language information and staff can handle basic English; for complex requests it’s advisable to contact the property in advance.
Expect a traditional Japanese stay with tatami rooms and futon bedding, multi-course kaiseki meals featuring local seasonal ingredients, onsen bathing etiquette and a quiet, respectful atmosphere.
Popular nearby sights include Atsumi Onsen area, Tsuruoka city highlights and regionally important sites such as the Dewa Sanzan/ Mount Haguro; local coastal scenery and cultural spots are within easy reach.
Take a train to JR Atsumi Onsen Station—Bankokuya is about 2–3 km from the station with regular local buses or a short taxi ride available.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 (3:00 PM) and check-out is by 10:00 (10:00 AM); if you expect to arrive late please notify the ryokan in advance.
Pets are not allowed. Meals are offered in the on-site restaurant or private dining rooms, and guests can ask the front desk about reservable private-bath options or special meal arrangements.