Yamanaka Onsen Hanatsubaki
7,9/10 Very good - Based on 308 reviews
Set along the clear mountain stream in the Shinsenkyo gorge of Yamanaka Onsen, this traditional ryokan occupies a sheltered riverside site where multiple open-air and indoor baths draw directly from the property’s own source. The bathscape includes a terraced outdoor complex reached by a long stairway, gender-segregated public baths, and smaller bathing options that can be used in sequence to enjoy changing light and seasonal foliage; the property also operates a sauna and offers occasional private-bath options by request. Framed by cedar and rock, the bathing areas are described by the inn as flowing from a single source and are arranged to prioritize views of the stream and the surrounding valley, giving a sense of immersion in the natural setting that defines this ryokan with onsen in Ishikawa.
Guest rooms combine traditional tatami and sliding screens with contemporary conveniences: many rooms face the river or mountains, and standard amenities listed for suites and larger rooms include climate control, a seating area, and private wash facilities. Meals follow a regional kaiseki approach that highlights Kaga vegetables and seafood landed at nearby ports, with menus that change seasonally; the ryokan emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and a restrained presentation that complements the rural setting. Practical services include an on-site restaurant and bar, multilingual staff, free parking, and a scheduled shuttle service to the nearest station on request, which helps position the property as a convenient base for exploring Kaga’s crafts and walking routes.
The overall experience is aimed at travelers seeking a calm, restorative stay rather than urban bustle: daytime activities range from short walks to the great cedars and nearby bridges to visiting lacquerware workshops, while evenings center on bathing and multi-course dinners. Rooms and public areas are arranged to favor quiet and privacy, and the property welcomes families as well as solo guests. With straightforward access from regional transport and a focus on seasonal food and source-fed baths, the ryokan with onsen offers a measured, place-based stay in the Ishikawa Prefecture hot-spring town of Yamanaka.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yamanaka Onsen Hanatsubaki
Positive Reviews
Excellent outdoor onsen and variety of baths
Multiple reviewers praised the outdoor mixed onsen next to the river, noting several different baths (including private ladies’ baths) and a unique riverside setting that made bathing exceptional and often very private.
Spacious, comfortable traditional rooms
Guests frequently mentioned large, well‑appointed Japanese‑style rooms and family rooms with ample futons, seating areas and balconies, describing them as comfortable and true to a traditional ryokan feel.
Friendly, helpful staff and useful transport service
Staff were repeatedly described as welcoming and helpful; several reviews noted an accommodating manager and that the hotel provides shuttle service to/from Kagaonsen station, which guests appreciated.
Good food — breakfast and dinner
Many guests enjoyed the meals: a well‑received Japanese breakfast, impressive traditional dinners, and chefs willing to accommodate dietary requests (e.g. meat‑free dishes with notice).
Peaceful riverside location and good value
Reviewers highlighted the serene mountain/riverside setting, quiet atmosphere (especially in low season), free refreshments in the lobby, and perceived good value for money compared with other options.
Negative Reviews
Indoor onsen and some bathing areas need updating or cleaning
Several guests said the indoor bathing areas looked dated or shabby and could benefit from renovation; small cleanliness/maintenance concerns were mentioned (e.g. dirty indoor bath window, a screeching sliding door).
Remote location and limited local transport
Multiple reviews warned the property is a bit far from the town center and that a car gives more flexibility; taxis can be scarce and public transport is limited, so planning transfers in advance is recommended.
Maintenance and comfort issues
A few guests reported practical problems such as washroom sewage needing repair, no air conditioning in some rooms (an issue in summer), a leaking hire bicycle, and occasional staff shortages affecting service speed.
Booking, room allocation and check‑in rigidity
There were isolated reports of initial booking confusion or the reserved room not being provided (though substitutes were acceptable), plus requests for more flexible early check‑in when rooms appear ready.
Limited English information and on‑site dining options
Some visitors found dinner menus lacked English translation and the hotel has limited on‑site restaurant/room‑service options, making it harder for non‑Japanese speakers to navigate meals without staff assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan has 44 traditional Japanese-style rooms and 4 rooms with private open-air baths, with options suitable for couples and families; some rooms offer river views and futon bedding.
There are indoor public baths for men and women plus multiple outdoor baths including women-only pools and the mixed-bathing outdoor area called “Yubatake.” Bath hours are roughly 15:00–24:00 and 05:00–10:00 for the large baths, and outdoor/Yubatake hours are about 15:00–23:00 and 06:00–10:00.
Guests with tattoos may not be permitted to use the public bathing areas; please contact the front desk for guidance or alternatives.
A free shuttle runs to and from Kaga Onsen Station by reservation (scheduled pickup times are offered), and airport pickup from Komatsu Airport is available with advance notice.
Komatsu Airport is the nearest airport, located about 28 km from the property; airport pickup can be arranged in advance.
Staff can communicate in Japanese, English and Chinese.
The ryokan serves traditional kaiseki dinner and a Japanese breakfast on the ground floor; dinner is typically 18:00–20:30 and breakfast 07:00–09:30, and dietary needs can be requested at booking.
Yuge Kaido (the hot-spring main street) is about a 20-minute walk or a short shuttle/car ride, and nearby attractions include Tsurusenkei, the Great Cedars of Kayano, Kutani ware shops, and Kanazawa sights within driving distance.
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00; the ryokan can store luggage before check-in—please notify the front desk for arrangements.
Pets are not allowed; some rooms feature private open-air baths and private-rental options should be requested at booking; vending machines are available on the 2nd floor and supermarkets or restaurants are on Yamanaka Onsen’s main street a short drive away.