Fukuichi
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Fukuichi is a long-established ryokan set on the wooded slopes of Ikaho Onsen in Shibukawa, Gunma, where a history of hospitality stretches back more than four centuries. The property presents a mix of traditional Japanese rooms with tatami floors and futon sleeping arrangements alongside Western-style, carpeted rooms with beds, all furnished to offer clear views of the surrounding hills. Public facilities include heated indoor baths and multiple open-air options, plus reservable family baths and a sauna; complimentary wired and wireless internet is available in guest rooms.
The ryokan operates two distinct spring types historically known in Ikaho as the “gold” and “silver” waters, and guests can move between indoor bathing areas, rotenburo (outdoor baths) and three private bath rooms that require reservation, giving flexibility for couples and families. On-site dining emphasises seasonal, locally sourced ingredients served in a range of dining rooms from traditional banquet halls to private compartments, while additional amenities include a spa area, karaoke and banquet facilities suited to groups. Detailed descriptions of the baths, dining options and private-bath layouts are provided by the property and specialised onsen guides.
Practical details favour self-drive and coach travellers: there is on-site parking and a complimentary pick-up service from the Ikaho Onsen bus stop by prior arrangement, with typical access times of around two to two-and-a-half hours from central Tokyo by road; the ryokan sits a short distance from Ikaho’s stone steps and the Kajika Bridge, making it a convenient base for local sightseeing. Check-in and check-out hours and shuttle arrangements are published by the inn; for comparative search terms, travellers searching “ryokan with onsen Fukuoka” or exploring options as a “ryokan with onsen Gunma” will find this Ikaho property notable for offering both public and reservable private bathing experiences.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Fukuichi
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen and bathing facilities
Many guests praised the onsen and sauna as spacious, very clean and relaxing; some also enjoyed private onsen options and found the bathing experience a highlight of their stay.
Friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviews mention helpful, welcoming staff and good service, including at check-in, in dining areas and when assisting with guest needs; some staff speak English.
Great location near Ikaho Stone Steps
Guests appreciated the hotel's central location in Ikaho, close to the stone steps and local attractions, with easy access and free parking for guests.
Very good food, especially breakfast and dinner
Breakfast received frequent praise for variety and quality, and many guests enjoyed the evening multi-course dinners (kaiseki), describing meals as elegant and tasty.
Clean, spacious rooms and traditional atmosphere
Visitors liked the roomy accommodations—many enjoyed Japanese-style tatami rooms and futon experience—as well as clean rooms, some luxurious features (terrace, outdoor tub) and family-friendly lobby amenities (snacks, drinks, kids area, welcome robot).
Negative Reviews
Some areas and room facilities feel dated or worn
Several guests noted that parts of the hotel and some guest rooms show age—worn interiors, older shower rooms or furnishings—which contrasts with the more updated lobby and restaurant areas.
Language barriers for non-Japanese speakers
A number of reviewers said few staff spoke English, which made reservations, onsen usage guidance and general communication more difficult for guests who don't read Japanese.
Dining issues for some guests
A minority reported problems with meals—complaints included a disappointing kaiseki dinner, Western breakfast served cold, or limited Western dinner options for non-Japanese eaters; a few also noted lack of English labels for buffet items.
Onsen access and layout inconveniences
Some rooms are located in separate buildings or a long walk from the lobby/onsen; guests reported long corridors, stairs and carrying luggage or finding the onsen a bit far from certain guest rooms.
Occasional service/maintenance and connectivity issues
There were isolated reports of maintenance lapses (missing coffee supplies, damaged sofa, patched walls) and spotty Wi‑Fi connectivity during some stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Japanese-style rooms accommodate 2–5 guests and twin rooms suit 2 guests; larger suites are available—check the room description for exact maximum occupancy.
Fukuichi offers both Ikaho’s traditional golden (Kogane-no-yu) and clear silver (Shirogane-no-yu) springs, with indoor baths, open-air baths and sauna facilities for men and women.
Yes — the ryokan provides several family/private baths and additional reserved ion-style baths; please request reservations at the front desk.
There is a free pick-up service from the Ikaho Onsen Ishidangai highway bus stop if you call on arrival; there is no regular airport shuttle, so plan transfers via Tokyo or Shibukawa instead.
From Tokyo take the JR highway bus from the Shinjuku terminal (about 150 minutes) to Ikaho Onsen Ishidangai, or take a train to Shibukawa and a short bus/taxi ride (around 30 minutes) to Ikaho; from airports travel via Tokyo to connect.
The website and materials are available in English and some staff can speak English; for detailed assistance or special requests, contact the ryokan in advance.
The ryokan serves kaiseki-style dinners and Japanese breakfasts, offers private dining rooms, and provides traditional amenities such as yukata for guests to wear.
Fukuichi sits by Ikaho’s famous stone steps and is a short walk or drive to Ikaho Shrine, Kajika Bridge, local shops and scenic mountain walks.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00; the ryokan can usually store luggage before check-in and after check-out—confirm with reception on arrival.
Pets are generally not permitted—please confirm with the ryokan if you require an exception; convenience stores and small shops are located within the Ikaho stone-steps area a short walk away.