soraichi
7,9/10 Very good - Based on 35 reviews
Soraichi, formerly Satoya Ryokan, is a small historic ryokan with onsen in Miyagi Prefecture located in the Akiu Onsen district near Sendai. Housed in a property that traces its hospitality back over a century, the accommodation blends Meiji-era architectural details with contemporary comforts. With just sixteen guest rooms, the ryokan focuses on calm, personalised service: Japanese-style tatami rooms with futon bedding, in-room kettles and modest storage, and communal sitting areas arranged to encourage slow mornings and relaxed evenings.
The bathing facilities draw from Akiu’s natural spring source and include a warm indoor bath plus an open-air rotenburo framed by local stone and pines. Baths operate on a gender-separated schedule with alternating times so guests can experience both settings; basic toiletries and towels are supplied. Dining highlights seasonal, multi-course kaiseki served in a dining room or delivered to rooms on request, emphasising regional ingredients. Some room categories have private bathrooms while others rely on the shared onsen and bathing areas.
As a ryokan with onsen in the Tohoku region, Soraichi sits close to Rairaikyo Gorge, Akiu Otaki Falls and local craft centres, and is roughly thirty minutes by road from central Sendai. The ryokan provides complimentary on-site parking and free Wi‑Fi, making it convenient for self-drive travellers exploring Miyagi or the wider region. With an intimate scale and attentive staff, the property suits guests seeking a restorative, low-key stay focused on hot-spring bathing, seasonal cuisine and a quiet connection to nature.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: soraichi
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen (indoor & outdoor, flowing spring)
Many guests praised the hot springs — including the outdoor bath and the kakenagashi (natural flowing) source. Baths are well maintained, offer different experiences (indoor/outdoor and男女 swap times), and are available outside cleaning hours.
Delicious traditional meals
Multiple reviews highlighted very tasty meals served in a pleasant dining setting, with abundant dinner portions and a memorable breakfast (some guests mentioned local items such as o-hagi).
Authentic, comfortable Japanese-style rooms
Guests appreciated the traditional tatami rooms, comfortable futon beds, yukata and the overall nostalgic ryokan atmosphere. Rooms were often described as clean and well equipped (separate shower/toilet in many rooms, fridge, safe).
Helpful, courteous staff
Staff were described as kind and accommodating — arranging smooth check-ins (even with late arrival) and trying hard to assist guests despite limited English.
Good value and peaceful location
Reviewers felt the ryokan offered strong price‑quality value, allowing an affordable onsen stay. The property is quiet and restful, yet conveniently close to a bus stop and a convenience store.
Negative Reviews
Aging property and visible wear
Several guests noted the building is older and shows wear in places (though many also said it is well cared for). Some pointed out specific rough repairs or signs of aging such as taped thresholds or occasional cobwebs.
Small or cramped room bathrooms/toilets
A number of reviewers mentioned that the private toilets or bathroom areas in rooms are small and can feel tight for larger or taller guests.
Temperature control and bath heat complaints
Some guests found room temperature difficult to adjust because of central AC/heating without in-room controls; a few also mentioned the outdoor bath felt uncomfortably hot at times.
Accessibility, doors and signage issues
Comments raised concerns about heavy/stiff room and bath doors, uneven steps or hidden level changes near baths, and a desire for clearer information (e.g. guidance on waste sorting/recycling and room layouts) to reduce confusion and safety risks.
Limited amenities or English information
A few guests noted limited on-site amenities (for example no alcohol vending machine) and that staff generally had limited English, which made communication or explanations harder for non-Japanese speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan offers a range of room types for couples and groups, including multi-person (quadruple) rooms; the property is small with around 16 rooms. Children are welcome but extra beds or baby cots are not available.
Yes — Soraichi has communal natural hot-spring baths with both indoor and outdoor facilities. Baths are generally gender-separated and may operate on a scheduled time-swap for the different genders.
There is no regular hotel airport shuttle listed; the easiest options are public transport or taxi. Most guests travel via Sendai (Senzan Line to the local station) and then use a local bus or taxi to Akiu Onsen.
Staff primarily speak Japanese and English may be limited. Guests are encouraged to note arrival times in advance and bring a translation app or a few key phrases if needed.
You will find tatami rooms, futon bedding and yukata, plus seasonal kaiseki-style meals served in-room for an authentic ryokan experience. The building preserves historical character while offering modern comforts.
Soraichi sits in Akiu Onsen, close to Rairaikyo Gorge, Akiu Otaki (Akiu Falls) and Akiu Craft Park. Downtown Sendai and coastal sights such as Matsushima are accessible by car or public transport in about 30–40 minutes.
The nearest railway access is the Senzan Line (local station) with a short bus or taxi ride to Akiu; buses serve the onsen area from Sendai. Free on-site parking is available for guests arriving by car.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out is by 10:00. The property requests that you inform them of your expected arrival time in advance if you will be late.
Private bath rentals are not regularly advertised — please inquire with the property for availability. Pets are not permitted, and there is a convenience store and a local supermarket within a short walk.
Meals are available — breakfast options are offered and dinner is typically served as a multi-course kaiseki using seasonal local ingredients. Meals are usually served in the privacy of your room; notify the ryokan about dietary needs in advance.