Welcome to our review of this hidden gem in Saga Prefecture! Tucked away in the Furuyu Hot Spring area, this ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) offers a perfect blend of old and new.
Picture yourself soaking in an outdoor bath, surrounded by nature, then retiring to a comfy room that mixes Japanese style with modern touches.
The food here is a treat, with both Japanese and Italian options to satisfy your taste buds. And let’s not forget the star of the show – the hot springs! The open-air bath is a real showstopper, giving you a front-row seat to some stunning scenery.
Now, for the not-so-great bits: The location is a bit remote, so you might feel a tad isolated if you’re looking for lots of nearby attractions.
Also, the mix of traditional and modern might not suit purists looking for a completely authentic ryokan experience.
That said, this place is perfect for couples or solo travelers who want to unwind and soak up some Japanese culture.
It’s also great for anyone who loves a good hot spring but doesn’t want to rough it. If you’re after a peaceful retreat with a dash of luxury, you’ve hit the jackpot here!
Key Points
- Furuyu Onsen Oncri is a traditional ryokan located in Saga Prefecture, Japan, offering a scenic and romantic setting with a range of onsen facilities.
- The ryokan features spacious rooms with modern amenities and an impressive teppanyaki restaurant for an immersive dining experience.
- Guests can enjoy a variety of onsen baths, including an open-air bath with scenic views, as well as a unique sand bath.
- The ryokan has received high ratings for its exceptional cleanliness, facilities, and staff, contributing to a comfortable and rejuvenating stay.
- Travelers should be aware of tattoo restrictions in the public bathing areas, a common practice in Japanese onsens.
Location and Accessibility
Furuyu Onsen Oncri is located in the Furuyu Hot Spring area of Saga Prefecture, Japan.
The ryokan is situated 18 km from JR Saga Train Station, for which it offers a free shuttle service. Guests can also opt for a paid shuttle to and from Saga Airport.
The location is highly rated by couples, who give it an 8.3 score.
The ryokan’s blend of traditional and modern architectural design complements the natural hot spring setting, providing a serene and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
The combination of accessibility and picturesque surroundings makes Furuyu Onsen Oncri an appealing destination.
Accommodation and Amenities
The ryokan offers spacious rooms with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, dining areas, refrigerators, minibars, and electric kettles.
En suite bathrooms include slippers and toiletries. Guests can take advantage of the foot bath, gift shop, and kid’s corner. Free private parking is available.
Popular amenities include free WiFi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, room service, and three on-site restaurants serving Japanese, Italian, and teppanyaki cuisines.
Visitors praise the facilities (8.8), cleanliness (8.5), and comfort (8.6) of the ryokan, with the variety of onsen options, including an open-air bath and unique sand bath, being particularly noteworthy.
Japanese and Italian Dining
Guests can savor a diverse culinary experience at Furuyu Onsen Oncri, which features three on-site restaurants catering to various tastes. The ryokan’s signature restaurant, Kimi, offers authentic Japanese cuisine, while Sebri delights with Italian fare. For a unique teppanyaki experience, guests can visit Watahan. To enhance the dining experience, reservations for meals must be made at least one day in advance.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kimi | Japanese | Authentic kaiseki dinners |
| Sebri | Italian | Varied menu with pasta and pizza |
| Watahan | Teppanyaki | Live cooking demonstrations |
Teppanyaki Restaurant
Dining at the Watahan teppanyaki restaurant offers guests a captivating culinary experience, complete with live cooking demonstrations by skilled chefs.
Situated within the Furuyu Onsen Oncri ryokan, this teppanyaki eatery specializes in expertly prepared Japanese cuisine. Diners are treated to an interactive performance as chefs expertly sear, slice, and sauté fresh ingredients on the iron griddle right before their eyes.
The menu features a range of delectable options, from juicy steaks and succulent seafood to seasonal vegetables, all prepared to perfection. Guests praise the exceptional quality of the food and the immersive, theatrical nature of the teppanyaki dining experience at Watahan.
Onsen Facilities and Baths
Furuyu Onsen Oncri boasts an impressive array of onsen facilities and baths, catering to the diverse preferences of its guests.
Visitors can indulge in the ryokan’s indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, each offering a unique experience. The highlight is the open-air bath, allowing guests to soak while enjoying the picturesque natural surroundings.
For a truly distinctive experience, the ryokan also features a sand bath, where guests can recline in warm, therapeutic sand.
All onsen facilities are meticulously maintained, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Guests with tattoos should note that they may be restricted from using the public bathing areas, as is common practice in Japanese onsens.
Cleanliness and Comfort
One of the defining features of Furuyu Onsen Oncri is its spotless upkeep and inviting ambiance. Guests consistently praise the ryokan’s exceptional cleanliness, with an impressive rating of 8.5.
The rooms are meticulously maintained, outfitted with modern amenities that prioritize comfort and relaxation. From plush bedding to high-quality toiletries, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to ensure a rejuvenating experience.
The onsen facilities, both indoor and outdoor, are impeccably clean, adding to the overall sense of tranquility. Plus, the ryokan’s public areas, such as the restaurants and lounges, maintain the same high standards of cleanliness, creating a seamless and pleasant atmosphere for guests.
Guest Ratings and Feedback
Guests have overwhelmingly praised the ryokan’s excellence, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 8.1.
The property received particularly high marks in the facilities (8.8), staff (8.5), cleanliness (8.5), and comfort (8.6) categories.
Travelers were delighted by the quality of the food offerings and the diverse range of onsen facilities, including an open-air bath and a unique sand bath.
The ryokan’s attention to detail and commitment to providing an exceptional experience haven’t gone unnoticed, with guests highlighting the property’s exceptional standards across the board.
Policies and Services
Check-in at the ryokan is available from 15:00 to 19:00, and guests must check out between 06:00 and 11:00.
Children of any age are welcome, but extra beds aren’t available. Pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
Guests with visible tattoos may be prohibited from using the public bathing areas. A curfew is in place from 00:00 to 06:00.
The ryokan offers free private parking and a free shuttle to/from the nearby JR Saga Train Station, 18 km away. A paid shuttle service is also available to/from Saga Airport.
Reservations for the on-site restaurants must be made at least one day in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize My Room’s Decor at Furuyu Onsen Oncri?
Guests at Furuyu Onsen Oncri can’t customize their room’s decor, as the ryokan provides standard accommodations. However, the rooms feature a blend of traditional and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.
What Is the Dress Code for the On-Site Restaurants?
The dress code for the on-site restaurants at Furuyu Onsen Oncri is casual. Guests can wear comfortable clothing and are not required to dress formally. The focus is on enjoying the delicious cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Are There Any Special Event Packages or Deals Available?
The ryokan offers special event packages for weddings, romantic getaways, and group retreats. These packages may include amenities like private baths, seasonal multi-course meals, and celebratory drinks. Guests should check the website or inquire directly for package details and pricing.
Can I Arrange a Private Onsen Experience During My Stay?
Yes, guests can arrange private onsen experiences during their stay. The ryokan offers several private hot spring baths that can be reserved for a more intimate and secluded bathing experience.
Are There Any Nearby Tourist Attractions or Activities to Explore?
The ryokan offers a shuttle to nearby attractions like Saga Castle and the Yoshinogari Historical Park. Guests can also explore traditional Japanese gardens, art galleries, and boutiques within a short drive of the property.
The Sum Up
As we soaked in the soothing hot springs and savored exquisite local cuisine, we couldn’t help but marvel at this gem of a ryokan. It’s a place where ancient traditions meld seamlessly with modern comforts, creating an experience that’s uniquely Japanese yet accessible to Western travelers.
From the moment we slipped into our yukatas, we felt transported to another world. The diverse onsen facilities offered a veritable buffet of relaxation options, while the dining room served up culinary delights that had us eagerly anticipating each meal.
Our stay here was nothing short of magical, leaving us rejuvenated and with a deeper appreciation for Japanese hospitality. It’s the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after you’ve returned home.
If you’re ready to embark on your own journey of relaxation and culture, just click the button below. It’ll take you to Booking.com, our go-to site for reserving accommodations. We’ve found their prices to be competitive, and best of all, there’s no charge for making a reservation. Happy travels!