THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch
10/10 (Based on 1 reviews )
989-0231 Miyagi, Shiroishi, Fukuokakuramoto、Azakamasaki1-1, Japan
THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch is a small luxury hot-spring ryokan in Kamasaki Onsen (Shiroishi, Miyagi), set in a quiet riverside and woodland environment. It offers 11 all-suite accommodations, each designed around a private terrace and a private open-air hot-spring bath, so bathing is part of the in-room experience rather than a shared routine. In addition to the in-room baths, the property also provides two private open-air baths for guests. Dining focuses on kaiseki cuisine prepared on site, served in an intimate private dining setting (with terrace) and centered on seasonal ingredients, including local Miyagi produce. On-site facilities also include a bar and a spa treatment room, matching the retreat-style atmosphere.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Exceptional (score 10)
Negative reviews
- No comments available in the review text
竹泉荘 Chikusenso Onsen
9.8/10 (Based on 64 reviews )
989-0916 Miyagi, Zao, Togatta Onsen Aza Uwanohara 88-11, Japan
竹泉荘 (Chikusenso Onsen / CHIKUSENSO Mt. Zao Onsen Resort & Spa) is an onsen ryokan-style resort in Miyagi Prefecture, set in the natural surroundings of Mt. Zao near Togatta Onsen. The hot spring comes from Togatta Onsen and is offered as separate men’s and women’s indoor and outdoor baths, plus two private outdoor baths that require reservation. Suite rooms also include a private onsen. Dining focuses on Japanese cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and the property also has a bar and multiple lounges (including a library lounge). Additional facilities include a gym, a gift shop, and meeting spaces, with access supported by a shuttle service from Sendai Station (advance booking required).
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Excellent and relaxing experience
- Breakfast was huge, healthy and very tasty; very good coffee
- Half-board meals are extremely generous; Wagyu beef; everything worked like in a dream
- Breakfast and dinner were excellent
- Impeccable, warm service; fantastic food; rooms/grounds/baths very nice and photos accurate
Negative reviews
- Not many activities around the hotel, or no information provided about nearby activities
- Too much food offered for dinner (quantity could be less)
- Location is a bit far / out of the way
- WiFi could be a bit stronger
- Private bath reservation: moved to Bath 1 because Bath 2 wasn’t cleaned yet; Bath 2 seems to have a nicer view
Saryo Souen
9.8/10 (Based on 9 reviews )
982-0241 Miyagi, Sendai, Taihaku-ku Akiumachiyumoto Higashi 1, Japan
Saryo Souen (Charyo Souen) is a traditional Japanese ryokan in the Akiu Onsen area of Sendai, Miyagi, set around a large Japanese garden in a quiet, nature-oriented hot-spring valley near the Natori River. Onsen bathing is a core part of the stay, with open-air baths on site using Akiu Onsen waters; some sources also indicate a spacious indoor public bath alongside the rotenburo. The atmosphere follows classic sukiya-style design, with guest rooms oriented toward garden views. Dining focuses on seasonal kaiseki, presented in a tea-ceremony-inspired “chakaiseki” style featuring regional Tohoku ingredients. In-room relaxation treatments are also available, supporting a calm, restorative rhythm throughout the stay.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Attentive, high-quality personal service (staff always available; luggage handled; shoes cleaned)
- Delicious meals, including excellent kaiseki with seasonal produce
- Traditional, charming ryokan with spacious, comfortable rooms/villas
- Private in-room/outdoor onsen (private villa outdoor onsen; relaxing onsen facilities)
- Very clean, quiet suite with a view of the garden
Negative reviews
- Onsen temperature adjustment during breakfast made the in-room open-air bath too hot to use before checkout
- Price is slightly high (but acceptable)
Tokinenoyado Yunushi Ichijoh
9.4/10 (Based on 127 reviews )
989-0231 Miyagi, Shiroishi, Fukuokakuramoto Kamasaki 1-48, Japan
Tokinenoyado Yunushi Ichijoh is a long-established ryokan in the Kamasaki Onsen area of Shiroishi, Miyagi Prefecture (Tohoku). The onsen experience centers on two different hot-spring baths: “Dokutsu-no-yu,” used in the large bathhouse with open-air bathing areas surrounded by forest scenery, and “Yaku-to,” an indoor bath traditionally associated with Kamasaki’s “medicinal” reputation. For more privacy, selected suites feature semi-open-air baths fed by the same source as Dokutsu-no-yu, and a reservable family bath is also available. Meals are served in a historic wooden main building, with Japanese set-course dining. The atmosphere blends traditional architecture, calm interiors, and a hillside setting above the hot-spring town.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Everything exceeds my expectations
- The hospitality of the staff, they are so nice and welcoming.
- Foods are really nice, room are very clean. very nice place and very nice service
- The staff were amazing and plentiful. It is a very peaceful place to relax.
- Authentic Japanese ryokan; traditional decor, building, and excellent service. There also was Shamisen entertainment in one of the evenings.
Negative reviews
- Guests cannot use the onsen after checking out
- Service is good but can be even better.
- There was no advance notice at all to incoming hotel guests of the times and locations of the hotel’s shuttle pick up and drop offs at the train stations.
- Onsens are a little small but the staff explained that's the limitation from hot springs source.
- We were given the option to have breakfast at 8:30 or 9:00, with our shuttle leaving at 9:50. This made for somewhat of a rush.
かっぱの宿旅館三治郎
9.3/10 (Based on 35 reviews )
989-0913 Miyagi, Zao, Togattaonsen Honcho 3, Japan
Kappa no Yado Ryokan Sanjiro (Ryokan Sanjiro) is a traditional ryokan in the Togatta Onsen area of Zao, Miyagi. The main focus is its natural hot-spring bathing: two large communal baths with mountain views—Kappa no Yu (with tatami laid by the bath) and Tougen no Yu (built in fragrant hinoki cypress)—plus connected open-air bathing. Bathing areas rotate by gender at set times. For privacy, the ryokan also offers reservable private baths in its “Hinoki Forest” complex. Meals highlight regional Miyagi ingredients, with a seasonal Japanese set style and house specialties. On site you will also find a lounge, small shop, and public areas themed around local kappa folklore, with free Wi‑Fi and parking typically available.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Wonderful traditional Japanese experience; outstanding attention to detail
- Food/dinner and breakfast frequently described as excellent, delicious and sumptuous
- Baths/onsen highly appreciated; multiple options including private baths (extra cost)
- Rooms described as clean, spacious and comfortable; some mention nice mountain views
- Staff praised as very friendly, attentive, helpful; some can communicate in simple English
Negative reviews
- Location felt far from planned activities; rural area easier to explore by car
- Taxi service not running on one guest’s checkout date
- Breakfast can be challenging for Europeans; one request for “real coffee” instead of instant
- Noise issues: loud wind at night; outdoor bath water described as lukewarm
- Maintenance/comfort issues mentioned: dusty locker area in changing room, chipped glass, difficulty adjusting air conditioning; parking lot far from the front desk; doors use regular keys; bedding not a bed (futon) inconvenient for some; food portion too large
Suzukiya Ryokan
9.3/10 (Based on 14 reviews )
989-0231 Miyagi, Shiroishi, Fukuokakuramoto Kamasaki 1-38, Japan
Suzukiya Ryokan is a traditional ryokan in Kamasaki Onsen, Shiroishi (Miyagi Prefecture), set in a quiet hot-spring area at the foothills of Mt. Zao. The property’s main focus is bathing: it uses its own hot-spring source and offers three distinct baths, including an open-air bath made from ancient cypress, a richly styled “golden bath,” and a granite stone bath. The open-air bath is gender-separated and not on a rotation system, while the indoor baths are available 24 hours except during cleaning time. Meals are typically served in the guest room, highlighting seasonal ingredients, and local Miyagi sake is also available. Parking is offered on site.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Exceptional, understanding staff despite a slight language barrier
- Wonderful facilities; guests say they would definitely stay again
- High-class onsen (indoor/outdoor), nice and hot
- Dinner and breakfast are highly recommended: traditional meal sets, nicely presented with great service
- Quiet location (forest/mountains) and clean, nicely designed rooms/onsen; meals can be served/eaten in the room
Negative reviews
- Indoor and outdoor onsen are separated
- Property is far/remote (though car pickup is available)
- A dead cricket was floating in the hot spring
- Noise: children running in the hallway could be heard loudly in the room
- Elevator doors close too quickly, even when pressing the door-open button
Sakan
9.3/10 (Based on 9 reviews )
982-0241 Miyagi, Sendai, Taihaku-ku Akiumachiyumoto Yakushi 28, Japan
Sakan is a long-established ryokan in Akiu Onsen, Sendai (Miyagi Prefecture), set along the Natori River and surrounded by a calm, natural landscape. The property’s key feature is its onsen area, with multiple public baths and open-air bathing options, including a riverside outdoor bath for hotel guests. On the official information, facilities also include a hinoki-wood bath area (Natorinomi-yu) with sauna, plus a reservable private, family-style bath with barrier-free access. Stays are commonly offered with half board, and the ryokan highlights Japanese cuisine using local ingredients from the sea, mountains, and river. Practical amenities include free on-site parking and access from central Sendai by car or shuttle (reservation required).
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Rich atmosphere with decor, arts/crafts, and historical/cultural feel
- Friendly and professional staff
- Well-equipped and comfortable onsen facilities
- Bath amenities provided (hair dryer, shampoo, skincare) are complete
- Clean and comfortable environment; tasty breakfast and dinner buffet with many hot springs to enjoy
Negative reviews
- Restaurant layout/flow feels a bit crowded
Komatsu-kan Kofu-tei
9.2/10 (Based on 464 reviews )
981-7213 Miyagi, Matsushima, Senzui 35-2, Japan
Komatsu-kan Kofu-tei is a traditional ryokan in Matsushima (Miyagi), set by the shoreline with views over Matsushima Bay. The property features natural hot-spring baths (Taikotensen Matsushima Onsen), including a viewpoint bath and an open-air bath with a rotating schedule for men and women. There is also a reservable private bath (limited daily availability) and an outdoor footbath terrace when weather allows. Rooms are Japanese-style or Japanese-western, with select options offering an in-room open-air bath. Dinner is offered in multiple styles (including a kaiseki-style Japanese course and a charcoal-grill course), with options for in-room dining. On-site facilities include restaurants, a bar, and parking.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Beautiful bay/ocean views from the room (including sunrise/sunset)
- Onsen experience appreciated (public and private/open-air baths mentioned)
- Food praised (breakfast and dinner described as excellent/superb/fabulous)
- Staff described as friendly, welcoming, helpful, attentive/polite
- Clean, comfortable and/or spacious traditional Japanese-style rooms (futons/tatami mentioned)
Negative reviews
- Property feels aged/dated or worn in places (incl. shower/bathroom area needing updating)
- Onsen/hot spring described as relatively small / not outstanding by one guest
- Access can be difficult: steep hill from town if walking with luggage; taxi timing mentioned
- Some communication/instructions in English could be improved; check-in using translation service felt lengthy
- Shuttle service limitations (very limited hours/ends early; limited service to station)
Sakunami Onsen Yuzukushi Salon Ichinobo
9.2/10 (Based on 52 reviews )
989-3431 Miyagi, Sendai, Aoba-ku Sakunami Nagahara 3, Japan
Sakunami Onsen Yuzukushi Salon Ichinobo is an onsen ryokan-style resort in the Sakunami hot-spring area of Sendai (Miyagi), set in a quiet natural valley near the upper Hirose River. The property focuses on hot-spring bathing with multiple on-site baths, including a riverside open-air area with four different rotenburo (with varied water temperatures) and a deep standing bath. There is also a separate open-air bath designed for longer soaks and a spacious indoor public bath. A herbal mist sauna using yomogi and onsen steam is available in the outdoor-bath area. Dining is centered on an order-style buffet dinner and a morning buffet, while a lounge space offers drinks and light snacks at set times. On-site parking is available.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Private and public onsen baths; relaxing and enjoyable (including river/forest views).
- Buffet breakfast and dinner very good/delicious, with lots of variety and chef prep stations; drinks/alcohol included in some reviews.
- Rooms are spacious/comfortable/well equipped; some include balcony, hammocks, and private soaking tub/hot tub with hot spring water running 24/7.
- Staff described as wonderful/helpful/polite; cleaning staff superb and punctual.
- Property/hotel is beautiful, well designed, very clean; inviting public spaces (library, fireplace, seating).
Negative reviews
- Building interior layout is unusual due to the age of the building.
- Hard/tricky/expensive to access without a car; taxi expensive; bus slow/uncomfortable; need to arrange shuttle pickup from Sakunami Station.
- Limited English spoken by most staff; reliance on translation apps (some reviews).
- Lobby/common area closed at 10pm; no common place to spend time after that.
- Buffet/dinner menu/food labels not available in English (mentioned by multiple reviewers).
Summary Table
| Position | Hotel | Rating | #Reviews | Stars | Staff | Cleanliness | Comfort | Location | Value for money | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch | 10▲ | 1▼ | 5▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ |
| 2 | 竹泉荘 Chikusenso Onsen | 9.8 | 64 | 5▲ | 9.8 | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 9.0 | 9.0 | 9.9 |
| 3 | Saryo Souen | 9.8 | 9 | 4 | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ | 10.0▲ |
| 4 | Tokinenoyado Yunushi Ichijoh | 9.4 | 127 | 5▲ | 9.7 | 9.5 | 9.4 | 8.7 | 9.1 | 9.1 |
| 5 | かっぱの宿旅館三治郎 | 9.3 | 35 | 3▼ | 9.7 | 9.7 | 9.3 | 8.5▼ | 9.0 | 9.0 |
| 6 | Suzukiya Ryokan | 9.3 | 14 | 3▼ | 9.4 | 9.6 | 9.3 | 8.9 | 9.1 | 9.4 |
| 7 | Sakan | 9.3 | 9 | 4 | 9.2▼ | 9.2▼ | 8.9▼ | 8.6 | 8.4▼ | 8.9▼ |
| 8 | Komatsu-kan Kofu-tei | 9.2▼ | 464▲ | 4 | 9.6 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9.6 | 8.7 | 9.3 |
| 9 | Sakunami Onsen Yuzukushi Salon Ichinobo | 9.2▼ | 52 | 4 | 9.3 | 9.2▼ | 9.2 | 9.0 | 8.6 | 9.1 |
FAQ
THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch is a small luxury ryokan in Kamasaki Onsen, set by the river and surrounded by woodland. Each suite is designed around a private terrace and a private open-air hot-spring bath, so soaking is part of the in-room experience. For extra privacy, the property also offers private open-air baths on site, plus kaiseki dining served in an intimate setting.
Chikusenso Onsen is a ryokan-style resort in the natural surroundings of Mt. Zao near Togatta Onsen. It offers indoor and outdoor public baths, reservable private outdoor baths, and suites that can include a private onsen. On site, you’ll find a Japanese restaurant, bar, lounge areas including a library lounge, and a gym, with shuttle access from Sendai Station by advance booking.
Saryo Souen is a traditional ryokan in the Akiu Onsen area of Sendai, built around a large Japanese garden in a calm hot-spring valley. The onsen experience includes open-air bathing on site, and rooms are oriented toward garden views in a classic sukiya-style atmosphere. Dining highlights seasonal kaiseki in a tea-ceremony-inspired style featuring regional Tohoku ingredients.
Tokinenoyado Yunushi Ichijoh is a long-established ryokan in Kamasaki Onsen with a strong focus on traditional bathing. It features two distinct hot-spring baths, including a large bathhouse with open-air areas framed by forest scenery, plus an indoor bath tied to the area’s “medicinal” reputation. Selected suites offer semi-open-air private baths, and meals are served in a historic wooden main building.
Komatsu-kan Kofu-tei is a traditional ryokan set by the shoreline with views over Matsushima Bay. Its natural hot-spring baths include an open-air option and a viewpoint bath, with bathing times rotating for men and women. You can also reserve a private bath with limited daily availability, and some room types offer an in-room open-air bath.