Kounkaku
8,4/10 Excellent - Based on 63 reviews
Kounkaku is a traditional ryokan set above the Dake Onsen neighborhood of Nihonmatsu, Fukushima, occupying a quiet hillside position that emphasizes panoramic mountain views and a calm, restorative atmosphere. The property presents a mix of Japanese and Western-influenced rooms with large windows overlooking the surrounding ridgelines, a public onsen fed from the local acidic spring known for its softening properties, a restaurant serving regionally sourced dishes, and guest facilities such as a sauna and complimentary parking—features that position it as a ryokan with onsen in Fukushima.
Accommodation choices range from compact traditional tatami rooms to larger suites with terraces; two specially appointed top-floor rooms include in-room, source-fed baths finished in ceramic or hinoki, offering a private bathing option for guests who prefer seclusion. Rooms are equipped with modern conveniences including washlet bathrooms and Wi‑Fi, and the house emphasizes seasonal local produce—Fukushima beef and home-grown rice often appear on dinner menus—while also offering buffet-style breakfast service. These combined facilities make the property an accessible ryokan with private onsen in Fukushima for couples and small groups seeking both comfort and authenticity.
Practical advantages include easy street access from the onsen town, on-site parking, and year-round activity options: winter skiing and snow plays on nearby slopes, and spring–autumn hiking on trails that start near the resort area. The ryokan’s elevated setting is particularly noted for sunrise and valley vistas, and its room types and communal baths suit travelers looking for a traditional onsen stay that balances private bathing options with shared spa facilities; the front desk can advise on local excursions and arrangements for private-bath bookings.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kounkaku
Positive Reviews
Excellent hot springs and scenic views
Many guests praised the onsen quality and the views from the large baths and private baths, highlighting sunrise baths and panoramic scenery as a standout feature.
Friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviews mention helpful, polite and thoughtful staff—assisting with parking, offering warm hospitality and creating a comfortable stay.
Tasty breakfast and enjoyable meals
Several guests enjoyed the breakfast (live omelette options, unique items like peach rice) and buffets; many found meals flavorful and satisfying.
Clean, spacious and comfortable rooms
Guests frequently noted that rooms were clean, roomy and comfortable, with good bedding and overall pleasant room amenities.
Good value and useful on-site amenities
Reviewers appreciated the property's value for money, welcome drinks (e.g. amazake), vending machines, free natural water, and available amenities like ice and beverages for purchase.
Negative Reviews
Limited restaurant/menu choices and long cooking times
Several guests reported the hotel’s dining options are limited, with small menus for on-site eateries, relatively high prices and sometimes long waits for food preparation.
Breakfast seating and capacity issues
At least one reviewer experienced a lack of seating at breakfast on arrival and had to wait; another suggested better organization (e.g. staggered seating) to avoid crowding.
Pet accommodation restrictions
While the hotel accepts pets, a reviewer noted pets stay in separate rooms and are kept in cage‑type arrangements rather than staying in the guest’s room, which was disappointing.
Occasional front desk / check‑in issues
A few guests found front desk interactions unsatisfactory at check‑in/check‑out, contrasting with generally positive comments about other staff; this suggests some inconsistency in reception service.
Isolated room problems and noise complaints
Some negative reports included noise from upper floors, a musty/moldy smell on bedding in one case, a failed mirror light, and small or cramped changing areas at the baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary for singles, couples and families; some rooms use futons and can sleep groups of up to four to six people depending on the room. Cribs and rollaway beds are not available, so please list children and ages when booking.
Yes — the property offers natural, source‑flow (kakenagashi) hot springs with indoor and open‑air bathing areas and a public onsen. A sauna is also available.
Private bath rental is offered and can be reserved in advance; please contact the hotel reception to book a time slot. Availability is limited and advance notice is recommended.
The hotel offers station pick‑ups and Fukushima‑area shuttle service by reservation; group transfers (and some individual station pick‑ups) require advance booking, typically by the day before. Contact the hotel with your arrival details to arrange transport.
Kounkaku is about 11 km from Nihonmatsu Station and roughly 27 km from Kōriyama Station; local buses run to Dake Onsen from Nihonmatsu. Fukushima Airport is approximately a 60–75 minute drive depending on traffic.
Staff can assist in English and Mandarin, and reception hours are posted on the hotel website; English support is generally available for reservations and basic guest needs. For complex requests, please contact the hotel in advance.
Check‑in generally begins at 15:00 and check‑out is by 10:00; the hotel asks guests to provide an estimated arrival time ahead of check‑in. If you expect to arrive late, notify reception in advance.
The ryokan has an on‑site restaurant serving dinner and a breakfast buffet, and the kitchen can accommodate common dietary requests if informed in advance. For special or severe allergies, please notify the hotel before arrival.
Pets are accepted on request and the property operates a pet house/boarding facility for guests who travel with animals; please contact the hotel beforehand to arrange space and details. Direct pet access to guest rooms may be restricted, so confirm arrangements with reception.
Dake Onsen offers scenic walks and local hot‑spring town attractions, with hiking and winter ski areas in the wider region and Mount Bandai within driving distance. Convenience stores and local shops are located in the town; the front desk can recommend nearby sights and routes.