Sansuiso Tsuchiyu Spa
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 171 reviews
Sansuiso Tsuchiyu Spa is a traditional ryokan set in the Tsuchiyu Onsen district of Fukushima, where timbered architecture and river-carved scenery frame a cluster of mineral-rich baths. Its signature open-air Taishi-no-yu sits beside a two-tier waterfall, while multiple public indoor baths and an array of reserveable private baths let guests choose between communal soaking and secluded bathing. The property draws its hot water directly from natural springs at around 60°C and moderates the temperature with mountain water, a practice that sustains continuous flow and broad therapeutic mineral content—defining it as a ryokan with onsen in Fukushima.
Guest rooms range from traditional tatami chambers to a newer Kachoen wing with garden-facing suites and a handful of terrace rooms, all furnished with modest modern conveniences and local touches. Onsite facilities include a heated indoor pool, a sauna, a communal lounge, complimentary Wi‑Fi in public areas, and complimentary parking; a scheduled shuttle runs to and from the nearest city station. Dining emphasizes seasonal Fukushima produce with multi-course dinners and a buffet-style breakfast. Five private onsen are available by reservation for families or couples, reinforcing its role as a ryokan with private onsen in Tsuchiyu Onsen.
Set at the foot of Mt. Azuma with immediate access to riverside trails and scenic viewpoints, the inn suits guests seeking a blend of outdoor activity and traditional Japanese hospitality. Staff provide multilingual assistance and optional spa services; the atmosphere prioritizes quiet, restorative stays across seasons, making the property appropriate for restorative short breaks, honeymoon stays, or as a base for exploring northern Fukushima.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sansuiso Tsuchiyu Spa
Positive Reviews
Attentive, friendly staff
Multiple guests praised the staff as very welcoming, helpful and attentive throughout the stay, including accommodating dietary needs and assisting with shuttle and on‑site services.
Exceptional food and local ingredients
Many reviews highlighted excellent dinners (including kaiseki) and varied breakfasts—food described as delicious, artfully presented and made with locally sourced ingredients.
Beautiful, peaceful mountain setting
Reviewers valued the tranquil location surrounded by nature and mountains, calling it a perfect hideaway for relaxation with scenic gardens and hiking nearby.
Variety of onsens with great views
Guests appreciated the choice of public and bookable private onsens; several noted spectacular views (waterfall, garden, carp pond) and that the baths were a highlight of the stay.
Traditional, spacious and clean rooms
Many comments praised the authentic Japanese‑style rooms as spacious, comfortable and clean, with comfortable futons/beds and private bath options in some room types.
Negative Reviews
Shuttle/transportation communication
Several guests found getting to/from the property confusing: shuttle timings must be precise, messages about multiple shuttle times were inconsistent, and clearer information on alternative transit options would be helpful.
Limited activities nearby
A number of reviewers noted there is little to do around the hotel itself—the stay is primarily about enjoying the ryokan, onsen and immediate surroundings rather than local attractions.
Onsen access and occasional cleanliness issues
A few guests mentioned difficulties accessing certain baths (stairs/third floor) and one reported floating algae in an indoor onsen; another noted the onsen glass can be hard to see through.
Breakfast can feel basic for some
While many praised the meals, at least one reviewer found the breakfast a bit basic compared with expectations. Others described the breakfast buffet as expansive, so experiences vary.
Minor service/amenity gaps and communication
Some guests noted small shortcomings such as no onsen basket for certain room types, inefficiencies when signing up for optional services (karaoke, massage), and occasional language/communication hurdles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from double/twin and traditional tatami rooms to family-style rooms; capacity varies by room so please check the specific room description when booking for maximum occupancy.
The ryokan has multiple public indoor baths, several open-air baths with views of a waterfall and ravine, a sauna, and a heated swimming pool for guests.
Yes, the property offers several private baths that can be reserved for exclusive use; availability and reservation procedures are handled through the front desk or at booking.
There is a shuttle service from JR Fukushima Station (typically from the west exit); for airport transfers you can arrange taxis or confirm any seasonal shuttle options with the ryokan in advance.
From JR Fukushima Station the ryokan is about a 30–40 minute drive by shuttle or taxi; from Fukushima Airport it is roughly a 70 km drive, and local buses to Tsuchiyu Onsen also serve the area.
Standard check‑in usually begins at 15:00 and check‑out is by 10:00, though exact times can vary by rate or room type so confirm at reservation.
Staff can assist in English and Japanese; some front‑desk team members provide English support for arrival and onsen guidance.
Pets are not permitted on the premises; service animals should be discussed with the ryokan in advance.
The ryokan serves traditional Japanese meals, including multi-course kaiseki dinners and breakfast options that feature local Fukushima ingredients; notify the ryokan ahead of time for dietary requests.
Sansuiso sits in Tsuchiyu Onsen near a scenic two‑tier waterfall and Arakawa Gorge, with local attractions like kokeshi craft displays and natural sites; small shops and convenience stores are available in the onsen district, while larger supermarkets are in central Fukushima city.