Sasakura onsen Ryuunso
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 21 reviews
Sasakura Onsen Ryuunso is a traditional mountain inn set in the wooded highlands around Itoigawa, Niigata prefecture. The property presents a calm, rural atmosphere with architecture and public spaces that reflect classic Japanese onsen hospitality; guests commonly note the mix of open views across a valley and sheltered bathing areas. As a ryokan with onsen in Niigata, it favours simple, locally rooted design rather than contemporary urban styling, making it suitable for travelers seeking a restorative, low‑key overnight experience close to national park foothills.
The bathing facilities draw on multiple local springs and are a core part of the stay: the waters are sodium bicarbonate type and are described on regional listings as smooth and skin‑softening, with a combination of large indoor baths, an open‑air bath overlooking the valley and a separate viewpoint bath. Bathing is complemented by modest guest facilities — free Wi‑Fi in rooms, on‑site parking and a shuttle service from the nearest station when reserved in advance — and accommodation choices that lean toward tatami rooms with futons, plus a limited number of Japanese‑Western style rooms and a few that include massage chairs for extra comfort.
Meals focus on seasonal mountain and sea produce from the Itoigawa area, with a local specialty of rice and porridge prepared using the spring water itself; dinner and breakfast are served in set courses that highlight regional ingredients. Practical points for planning: the property operates a curated, intimate program of services rather than large‑scale resort amenities, and it lies roughly 100 km from Toyama’s main airport, making it a viable ryokan with onsen option for travelers bound for Toyama as well as those exploring Niigata’s coastal and alpine corridors.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sasakura onsen Ryuunso
Positive Reviews
Authentic Japanese atmosphere
Multiple reviewers praised the ryokan’s traditional Japanese style, decor and rooms, noting an authentic, relaxing ambience that reflects local tradition.
High-quality onsen (hot springs)
Guests repeatedly described the natural mineral baths as excellent—rejuvenating, silky in feel, with several onsen options that left visitors relaxed.
Friendly, attentive staff and service
Staff were often described as very friendly and helpful; reviewers mentioned welcome drinks, staff interaction, and overall warm service that enhanced the stay.
Delicious meals and variety
Many guests complimented the food—traditional elaborate Japanese breakfasts, excellent dinner offerings and options such as a sake tasting; several said meals were tasty and well prepared.
Thoughtful extras and amenities
Reviewers appreciated small extras (free massage machine, snacks, ice cream, coffee), family-friendly treats for children and little services that made the stay more comfortable.
Negative Reviews
Inconsistent onsen temperature
Some guests noted variability in outdoor/on-site bath temperatures—while many found the onsen very hot and pleasant, others reported the open-air bath being too cool or wished it were warmer.
Accessibility issues (stairs to baths)
At least one reviewer pointed out that stairs to the baths make access difficult for guests with limited mobility, limiting suitability for those who need step-free access.
Limited dining in low season
A reviewer reported that during low season the property only provides breakfast (no dinner), which may affect guests expecting full-board options year-round.
Dated furnishings in parts of the property
One guest mentioned the building and furnishings reflect an older era (1980s–1990s), so some rooms and decor may feel dated compared with modern hotels.
Breakfast perceived as light/‘healthy’ by some
A small number of comments suggested the breakfast is on the lighter/healthier side, which might not meet expectations for guests seeking a heavier or more substantial morning meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from single and double layouts to family rooms that accommodate up to four guests, typically using futon bedding; children over one year are accepted and extra beds or cribs are not provided.
The ryokan uses two natural sources (Ryūun and Yakushi) known as a mild alkaline ‘beauty’ water; public baths and an open/observation bath are available from 05:00–24:00 with a gender swap at 05:00, and a reservable private bath (Senju no yu) is offered to guests at set times.
A complimentary shuttle from Itoigawa Station (Alps/South exit) is available for guests but must be reserved in advance; airport transfers are not regularly provided, so the usual route is to take train or bus to Itoigawa and use the hotel shuttle or local bus.
Most guests travel by air to a regional airport (Toyama is commonly used, around 100–110 km) and then proceed by train or bus to Itoigawa Station, followed by the ryokan’s reserved shuttle or a local bus for the final 30–40 minute leg.
The property listings note multilingual staff (including English, Chinese, and Korean), so basic English assistance is normally available; please contact the ryokan in advance if you require specific language support.
The ryokan serves seasonal Japanese-style meals that highlight local mountain and seafood ingredients, and onsen water is used in cooking; breakfast is served in a Japanese/Asian style and dietary requests should be advised before arrival.
Expect a traditional Japanese ryokan experience with tatami rooms and futon bedding in a countryside setting (the building dates from the mid-20th century), attentive omotenashi-style service, and peaceful mountain and rice‑terrace views.
The area offers coastal views of the Sea of Japan and access to nearby mountains (including Yakeyama and Amakazari), rice terraces and rural walking routes; Itoigawa town, with additional shops and sights, is roughly 30–40 minutes away by car or bus.
Standard check‑in is generally between 15:00 and 18:00 and check‑out between 07:00 and 10:00; the property’s entrance is closed overnight (approximately 23:00–07:00), so notify the ryokan if you expect to arrive outside normal hours.
A guest‑only private onsen is available by reservation at set times; pets are not permitted on the property; there is no supermarket on site—nearest convenience stores and supermarkets are located in Itoigawa, about a 30–40 minute drive or bus ride away.