Motoyu Arimaya
7,7/10 Very good - Based on 88 reviews
Motoyu Arimaya is a small, traditional ryokan set in the Higashiyama Onsen quarter of Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima. The property preserves a classic Japanese atmosphere with tatami-floored rooms furnished with futon bedding and yukata provided for guests; many rooms look out toward the nearby river and the compact scale gives stays a quietly personal feel. Communal areas include low tables and an irori (sunken hearth) style dining room where hosts serve seasonal, regionally focused cuisine prepared with charcoal and simple, local ingredients.
The inn operates on-site hot spring baths fed directly from a local source, offering the warm mineral waters associated with the Higashiyama springs. Bathing facilities are arranged as shared indoor onsen rather than en-suite tubs, and the modest size of the baths combined with the ryokan’s limited guest numbers often results in a calm, intimate bathing experience; many visitors describe the bathing spaces as tranquil and restorative. This ryokan with onsen provides the essential elements of a traditional hot-spring stay while keeping the layout compact and authentic.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Motoyu Arimaya
Positive Reviews
Authentic traditional ryokan experience
Many guests praised the property's historic, traditional atmosphere — tatami rooms, irori (hearth) dining rooms and period decorations created a genuine, memorable Japanese stay.
Outstanding meals (dinner & breakfast)
Repeated mentions of excellent food: beautifully prepared multi-course meals, dishes roasted over charcoal/firewood around the irori, and very satisfying breakfasts — several reviewers called the cuisine a highlight.
Warm, personal hospitality
Hosts were described as responsive and hospitable; several guests appreciated personal attention, small helpful gestures and the chance to interact with the proprietors during meals.
Relaxing onsen and good hot-spring water
The onsen was frequently noted as warming and pleasant with clear water quality; guests enjoyed bathing and the overall bathing experience.
Peaceful location, river views and good value
Guests enjoyed the calm setting, river views from rooms, and the intimate, small-scale feel. Multiple reviewers felt the stay offered strong value for price, especially midweek.
Negative Reviews
Aged or run‑down facilities in places
Many comments noted the property is old and in parts dated — some areas feel worn, some renovations only partial, and a few reviewers reported issues such as mould or uneven/ cold rooms.
Limited English / communication barriers
Several guests found staff had little English; basic communication worked but knowing Japanese and cultural norms made the stay easier. Lack of explanations about dishes caused confusion for some.
Shared bathrooms / limited in‑room amenities
Some rooms have no en‑suite toilets and guests must use shared baths. Reviewers also mentioned missing conveniences such as hairdryers in changing rooms, no power outlet at the room sink, and slow-to-heat showers.
Service consistency & meal presentation issues
While many praised the hosts, a few guests reported unfriendly interactions or felt rushed during meal service (food presented without explanation), which detracted from the experience.
Practical inconveniences (cash only, noise, ventilation)
Other practical negatives included cash-only payment, occasional noisy river sounds that may bother light sleepers, and ventilation/cleanliness concerns in some bath areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional tatami rooms with futons; typical options shown include rooms for about 3 futons and larger rooms for up to 6 futons. No extra rollaway beds or baby cots are listed, so check room type when booking.
Yes, the property offers hot-spring baths on site and also lists limited private (kashikiri) or reserved bathing options; ask the ryokan when you book or at reception to reserve a private slot.
There is no regular shuttle service advertised; the ryokan is a short distance from Aizu-Wakamatsu, reachable by local bus or a short taxi ride from the station.
Fukushima Airport is the closest listed airport, roughly 73 km from the ryokan. Plan onward transport by bus, train or taxi from the airport.
Staff generally provide friendly, helpful service and can manage basic English, but Japanese is the primary language; guests report that simple requests and check-in communication are usually possible in English.
Meals are traditional, often served around an irori (hearth) with local, charcoal-grilled dishes and a Japanese-style breakfast; dinner is typically served in the dining area and special dietary requests should be communicated in advance.
The ryokan sits in Higashiyama Onsen village with riverside walks and historic hot-spring town atmosphere; nearby attractions include Mount Iimori and day-trip destinations such as Ōuchi-juku and Mount Bandai.
The property is about 4.9 km from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station; guests normally use the local bus to Higashiyama Onsen or a short taxi ride from the station.
Standard check-in is between 15:00 and 21:00 and check-out is by 10:00, and the ryokan requests arrivals before about 19:00 if you plan to have dinner served on the day of arrival.
Pets are not allowed at the property. Higashiyama Onsen has small shops and vending machines for basics, while larger supermarkets and convenience stores are found in central Aizu-Wakamatsu a short drive away.