Mori no RyoTei Mount Bandai
7,6/10 Very good - Based on 7 reviews
Mori no RyoTei Mount Bandai sits on the flanks of Mount Bandai in the Inawashiro area, presented as a traditional Japanese inn that balances classic tatami rooms with facilities for larger groups. Guest accommodation ranges from intimate two-person rooms to larger family suites arranged in a conservative, wood-forward style that emphasizes views of the surrounding birch and beech forest. The property operates a ski-gate and on-site ski services in winter, and maintains complimentary parking and scheduled shuttle options year-round, making it a practical base for outdoor activities from hiking to downhill skiing.
The hotel’s bathing facilities are a defining feature: the spring is drawn from a local source on the Adatara range and is offered as a 100% natural hot spring with notable iron and carbon dioxide content, supplying a variety of indoor and open-air pools. Multiple bathing areas are laid out to encourage a “bath-hopping” experience and there are rentable private baths for guests seeking seclusion; the property describes day-use and reserved private options alongside public baths. This makes the property appropriate to list as a ryokan with private onsen in Fukushima for travelers prioritizing thermal amenities and restorative soaking.
Dining focuses on seasonal, regionally sourced produce presented in multi-course Japanese service, with options for banquet-style events and small private meals; the kitchen highlights local mountain vegetables and freshwater ingredients. On-site amenities include meeting and banquet spaces, ski storage and equipment rental coordination, plus occasional seasonal offerings such as tent saunas and guided local activities. The combination of traditional guest rooms, an extensive spring program and direct access to outdoor recreation positions the inn as a convenient ryokan with onsen in Inawashiro for visitors seeking nature-oriented stays in Fukushima.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
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Review summary for: Mori no RyoTei Mount Bandai
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen
Guests praised the hot springs as wonderful with a historic atmosphere, highlighting the quality and character of the onsen experience.
Spacious traditional baths
The bathing facilities are large and well-appointed with separate male and female baths, offering roomy soaking areas.
Impressive, large hotel
Although aged, the property feels substantial and ‘splendid’ in scale, giving a grand traditional impression.
Well maintained cleanliness
Reviewers noted that cleaning is done properly and the hotel appears to be kept tidy.
Attractive surroundings and views
Guests enjoyed fresh air, clear stream views and mountain scenery (including views of Mt. Bandai), enhancing the stay.
Negative Reviews
Aging building
Multiple guests commented that the building is old and shows its age, which may affect expectations for a modern property.
Worn tatami
Some reviewers mentioned that the tatami mats in rooms were a bit old or worn and could use refurbishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese style with futon bedding; some room types accommodate up to five people. Extra beds are not available and children of any age are welcome.
The property offers natural hot spring baths including outdoor onsen and gender-separated public baths. Private/reservable baths are not listed on public information, so please contact the property to request options.
A complimentary organized pick-up is offered from JR Inawashiro Station by reservation, with a common pickup time around 16:00; a taxi from the station takes about 30 minutes. Advance booking of the shuttle is required.
The nearest airport is Fukushima Airport (about 72 km). You can reach the ryokan by taxi from JR Inawashiro Station (≈30 minutes), by car from Fukushima Station (≈50 minutes), and the property provides free on-site parking.
English proficiency can be limited at regional ryokans; staff may speak some English but not fluently. If you need assistance, notify the property in advance or bring a translation app.
The ryokan serves traditional Japanese meals and offers breakfast; dinner is typically Japanese set cuisine. Please inform the ryokan in advance about any dietary restrictions or allergies.
The ryokan is set near Mount Bandai and offers access to local ski areas and Lake Inawashiro; Aizuwakamatsu and regional hiking are within driving distance. Seasonal activities include skiing in winter and foliage or mountain walks in other seasons.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out is by 10:00. The ryokan requests that you inform them of your expected arrival time in advance if you will arrive late.
Private onsen reservations are not listed in public details and should be confirmed directly with the property; pets are not allowed and parties/events are not permitted. Contact the ryokan for special requests.
Free on-site parking is available for guests. There is no on-site supermarket; for groceries and convenience stores you will need to visit nearby Inawashiro town, so a car or taxi is convenient for shopping and local travel.