Kohan-no-Yado Morimoto
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 24 reviews
Kohan-no-Yado Morimoto is a traditional lakeside ryokan in the Katayamazu Onsen area, set to face Shibayamagata and the Hakusan mountain range. The property traces more than a century of hospitality and is organised around three distinct guest wings that offer a mix of classic tatami rooms and Japanese-style modern rooms; many accommodations include yukata robes, tea sets and lake-facing windows. Some room types feature private, in-room rock baths fed from the hot spring source, providing a discreet bathing option for guests seeking solitude in a ryokan with onsen in Katayamazu.
The inn’s bathing facilities combine public and private options: a panoramic open-air bath that overlooks the lake, indoor thermal pools, and reservable private baths for couples or families. The onsen source at Katayamazu is a chloride-containing saline spring with a high source temperature, and the property operates both flowing (kakenagashi) hot-water outlets and contained baths in select rooms. Staff can arrange timed access to private baths and will confirm on arrival; rooms with dedicated rock baths take their water directly from the same natural source, offering the feel of a private onsen retreat within Ishikawa prefecture.
Dining follows seasonal kaiseki principles, with multi-course dinners built around local seafood and mountain produce and a set Japanese breakfast served in the dining area. Practical services include a station shuttle (advance notice suggested), on-site parking and local activity information; guests can borrow bicycles or stroll to nearby lakeside features such as the floating temple pavilion and the lakeside fountain. The property’s layout and service pattern make it well suited to travellers who prioritise lake views, traditional room features and flexible onsen access during a stay in Ishikawa.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kohan-no-Yado Morimoto
Positive Reviews
Scenic lake and mountain views
Many rooms face the lake and offer beautiful views (including views of Mount Hakusan), which guests repeatedly praised as a highlight of their stay.
Excellent, carefully prepared meals
Meals (kaiseki and local seafood specialties) were described as elaborate, varied and delicious; breakfast and dinner were often noted as a standout part of the experience and sometimes served in private dining areas.
Relaxing onsen with great outlook
Guests enjoyed the onsen, including a small outdoor section and large public baths with good water quality (some noted a saltwater source), often mentioning the pleasant view from the baths.
Attentive, helpful staff
Staff were repeatedly described as polite, proactive and helpful — assisting with local maps, communicating across language barriers as best they could, and even locating and holding lost items for guests.
Spacious, clean rooms and traditional atmosphere
Rooms and bathing areas were often described as spacious and clean, with a relaxing traditional ryokan atmosphere that many guests found ideal for a restful getaway.
Negative Reviews
Public bath amenities could be improved
Some guests found the public bath area somewhat run down or minimally equipped and suggested more facilities or amenities would improve the experience.
Price perceived as high by some guests
At least one guest felt the stay was overpriced, indicating expectations of better value for the cost.
Property shows its age
Several comments noted that parts of the ryokan are old; although guests acknowledged cleaning and repairs, the overall building and certain areas feel dated.
Limited English for some staff interactions
A few reviewers mentioned staff had limited English; while service intent was appreciated, language gaps were occasionally noted during interactions.
Towel/room amenity expectations
One guest pointed out that only bathing towels were provided and would have preferred additional room face/hand towels or more in-room toiletries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional tatami with futon bedding; many room types accommodate up to six guests and family rooms with lake views are available. Cribs and extra beds are not provided, and children aged 4 and above are treated as adults for reservation purposes.
The property offers indoor public baths and an open‑air (rotenburo) bath with lake views, and select rooms include a private in‑room hot spring bath.
Yes; the ryokan operates reservable private (kashikiri) baths—please request a booking at the front desk or when you reserve your room.
Yes; a complimentary shuttle runs between JR Kaga Onsen Station and the ryokan, but you must reserve your pick‑up in advance and confirm your arrival time with the property.
Komatsu Airport is the nearest regional airport (roughly 15–30 minutes by taxi or airport bus to the Kaga area). From Kaga Onsen Station you can use the ryokan shuttle or arrange a station pick‑up.
Staff can assist in basic English and the property provides some English information, but fluency may be limited; using a translation app or simple Japanese phrases is helpful.
The ryokan serves traditional multi‑course Japanese dinners (kaiseki) and set Japanese breakfasts, both normally served in the shared dining area. Yukata robes are provided for guests to wear while dining and relaxing.
Check‑in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check‑out is by 10:00. The ryokan asks guests to notify them of expected arrival times in advance.
The ryokan overlooks Lake Shibayamagata with views toward Mount Hakusan; nearby points of interest include the Nakaya Ukichiro Museum of Snow and Ice, Kaga Fruit Land, and Katano Beach. Bicycle rentals are available at the property for local exploration.
Pets are not allowed at the property. The ryokan has a souvenir shop and the front desk can direct you to the nearest convenience store or supermarket for groceries and essentials.