TAOYA Akiu
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 476 reviews
TAOYA Akiu is a converted long‑established hot‑spring resort in Akiu that now operates under the TAOYA brand, presenting an all‑inclusive approach to a traditional ryokan experience. The property preserves a classical ryokan atmosphere while introducing contemporary common areas, a bar lounge and expanded dining spaces that frame the onsen stay as a relaxed, service‑led retreat. Communal areas mix wood and stone detailing, and public facilities include saunas and accessible relaxation zones; the layout suits couples, families and small groups seeking a regional hot‑spring stay without losing the scale and amenities of a larger resort.
The bathing facilities are central to the offer: multiple indoor tubs and two distinctive open‑air baths sit beside landscaped waterfalls and forest views, named for their design characters and nighttime illumination. Guests can also reserve private onsen rooms for family or couple use, making it an option for travellers looking specifically for a ryokan with private onsen Miyagi. Bathhouse hours cover early morning and late evening sessions, and water from the local thermal source is used throughout, with separate facilities and temperature options to accommodate different preferences.
Accommodation ranges from traditional tatami rooms to mixed Japanese‑Western layouts, many with views over the surrounding greenery, and some room types are configured to host larger family groups. Meals emphasize buffet and set options featuring regional ingredients, and the property offers extras such as massage services, karaoke and multi‑language support for visitors. Located within easy reach of Akiu’s waterfalls and nature trails, the hotel functions as a convenient base for exploring the area while providing the conveniences associated with a modern ryokan with onsen Akiu.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: TAOYA Akiu
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen facilities
Multiple indoor and outdoor baths praised as clean, beautiful and relaxing, with options at different temperatures providing a standout bathing experience.
Generous all‑inclusive offerings
Many reviewers highlighted free drinks and snacks available throughout the day (including alcoholic beverages like sake and beer on tap), plus extras such as midnight snacks and free lounge refreshments.
High‑quality buffet meals
Dinner and breakfast buffets were frequently described as excellent, with a wide selection of Western and Japanese dishes, seafood and local delicacies.
Spacious, clean rooms and relaxing areas
Rooms were noted as large (by Japanese standards), clean and comfortable; communal relaxation spaces such as lounges, a library and cozy areas were also appreciated.
Good location and transport convenience
Guests valued the resort’s proximity to the Sendai shuttle/bus stop and the free shuttle service from Sendai station (when booked in advance), plus easy walking access to nearby attractions.
Negative Reviews
Limited shuttle frequency
The complimentary shuttle service to/from Sendai is helpful but runs infrequently; guests recommended adding more trips for arrivals/departures or booking early to secure seats.
Front desk language and staff attitude issues
Several guests reported difficulties with non‑English‑speaking staff or perceived unfriendly reception during check‑in; while many staff were praised, a few encounters left a poor first impression.
Onsen scheduling and temperature preferences
Some guests would have preferred different rotation/scheduling of gender‑assigned baths and a hotter water temperature for personal taste.
Buffet repetition and limited vegetarian options
A few reviewers found the buffet menu repetitive over multiple days and noted fewer appealing choices for vegetarians or pescetarians.
Checkout time and dining time enforcement
Commentary included that checkout at 10:00 felt early for some visitors and that dining staff sometimes encouraged guests to leave the dining area within a limited time, which felt rushed for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from single and double layouts to larger Japanese-style rooms that sleep up to seven guests using futons; specific capacity is shown on each room listing when you book.
Yes — the property offers hot spring facilities including public indoor baths and open-air (rotenburo) baths for guests to enjoy.
Private/family baths are offered at the property and can normally be reserved at the front desk or on arrival subject to availability.
There is no widely advertised scheduled airport shuttle; guests typically reach the ryokan by taxi, car (free on-site parking), or public transport, and you can contact the hotel to ask about any arranged pickup options.
The ryokan is roughly 23 km (about 14 miles) from Sendai Airport and is typically around a 30–40 minute drive depending on traffic; public transport requires transfers via Sendai city rail/bus routes.
Staff speak Japanese and there is multilingual support in English and other languages at times, but not all staff may be fluent — translation apps are commonly used by international guests.
The hotel operates buffet-style meals including breakfast and dinner with Japanese and international options, plus a family restaurant and lounge for snacks and drinks.
Akiu Great Falls, the Rairaikyō gorge and other Akiu Onsen sights are nearby, and Sendai city attractions such as the castle area and museums are within easy reach for day trips.
Standard check-in typically begins in the afternoon (around 15:00) and check-out is by late morning (around 11:00); your booking confirmation will show the exact times for your reservation.
Pets are not permitted on the property; there are convenience stores and local shops in the Akiu area where you can buy basic supplies.