Itoen Hotel Iizakakanouya
6,9/10 Good - Based on 66 reviews
Itoen Hotel Iizakakanouya sits in Iizaka Onsen in Fukushima, a mid-rise building facing the Surikamigawa River and framing seasonal views. Operated by Itoen Hotels, the property blends ryokan traditions with hotel services: a mix of Japanese-style tatami rooms, western rooms and a few rooms with semi-open-air baths. Public bathing areas use the local alkaline spring, and two reservable family baths let guests choose a private soak; this combination makes the property a straightforward choice if you are looking for a ryokan with onsen in Tohoku.
The onsen water is drawn from the Iizaka hot-spring system and is a mild alkaline spring with a natural source temperature above 42°C. Large communal baths operate on set hours with river views, and the two kashikiri private baths are available by reservation for 40-minute slots at no extra charge. Dining centers on an extensive buffet that highlights seasonal local ingredients; evening service pairs the buffet with an inclusive drinks option, and the hotel offers low-key entertainment such as karaoke, table tennis and shared games areas.
Rooms range from single and twin to traditional 8–20 tatami Japanese rooms and family suites; a handful of specially configured rooms include half-open-air baths for added privacy. Practical amenities include free on-site parking, complimentary Wi‑Fi and a front desk that coordinates a limited station pickup service in the afternoon; standard check-in and check-out windows apply. For visitors seeking a ryokan with private onsen in Fukushima, the hotel provides access to the Iizaka spa district and simple facilities for families.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Itoen Hotel Iizakakanouya
Positive Reviews
Comfortable and varied onsen facilities
Many guests praised the baths — large, well‑maintained public onsen and private/family baths were highlighted as relaxing and a main attraction; some reviews noted pleasant views (riverside) and no strict bathing time limits.
Friendly, helpful staff
Multiple reviewers reported good service, especially from front‑desk staff; staff were described as helpful and made procedures like early check‑in and private‑bath reservations smooth.
Tasty food and drink benefits
Breakfast and dinner offerings received positive comments (good buffet choice and flavors). The all‑you‑can‑drink alcohol option/ drink bar was repeatedly mentioned as a valued perk.
Good value for money
Several guests said the stay offered strong cost‑performance — affordable rates, enjoyable time with friends/family, and overall satisfaction for the price paid.
Cleanliness of baths and some rooms
Many reviews noted that the baths and changing areas felt clean and comfortable, and some guests found rooms to be tidy and well cared for.
Negative Reviews
Smells and inconsistent cleanliness
Multiple guests reported unpleasant odors (room bathrooms, corridors, elevator area) and spotty cleanliness — issues included cigarette/mold/urine smells and overflowing bins in some public areas.
Dated facilities and mismatch with photos
Several reviewers felt the property looked older than expected, with facilities appearing dated compared with online images.
Dinner buffet/menu and language problems
Some guests were disappointed with the dinner buffet selection (wanted more local/Fukushima specialties) and noted that restaurant menus lacked English translations, making choices difficult for non‑Japanese speakers.
Missing features and accessibility concerns
Reviewers wished for an outdoor (rotenburo) bath and raised accessibility problems — heavy bath doors, difficult buffet trays for elderly guests, and a general request for better barrier‑free access.
Practical inconveniences (parking, layout, room comfort)
Complaints included narrow/limited parking, maze‑like corridors that are hard to navigate, occasional room comfort issues (air conditioning/heating not working), and limited shuttle/transport timings.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan offers single, twin and Japanese-style rooms with futons, plus family rooms that can accommodate up to six guests using futons. Room types include Western-style beds and traditional tatami/futon layouts.
The property uses Iizaka’s hot-spring source with a large public bath (hours typically 14:00–01:00 and 05:00–10:00); tattoos are not permitted and there is no outdoor onsen. Follow posted bathing etiquette and gender-segregated bathing times.
Yes—there are two reservable private baths for guests; reservations are required, typically allocated in 40-minute slots, and the hotel offers these at no extra charge subject to availability.
The hotel provides same-day pick-up from Iizaka Onsen Station (usually between 14:00 and 17:00); guests should request this service in advance. There is no regular airport transfer listed, so plan transfers accordingly.
From Fukushima Station take the Fukushima Kōtsū Iizaka Line to Iizaka Onsen Station, then either walk about 15 minutes or use the hotel pick-up if arranged; the nearest major airport is Sendai Airport (around 72 km).
Standard check-in is from 15:00 (hotel notes a check-in window up to about 18:00) and check-out is by 11:00. If you expect to arrive outside those hours, contact the hotel ahead.
According to the property’s booking information, children are not permitted and pets are not allowed. If you are traveling with minors, contact the hotel directly to confirm options before booking.
The ryokan offers on-site meals with breakfast and dinner plans that typically feature buffet or set-menu items highlighting local Fukushima ingredients and seasonal dishes. Meal availability and meal style depend on your booking plan, so confirm when you reserve.
Staff primarily communicate in Japanese and English support may be limited; the hotel recommends contacting them in advance for specific requests or arranging assistance if you have limited Japanese. Printed information and pictorial guides are commonly used.
Stay in Iizaka Onsen village to enjoy historic public baths (such as Sabakoyu), local fruit orchards along the Fruit Line, riverside views, and nearby cultural sites like the Fukushima art museum and Anna Garden—all reachable by short drives or local transport. The hotel lists local sightseeing suggestions and can advise on day trips.