Tucked away in Kaminoyama’s steamy hot spring country, this cozy inn offers a genuine slice of Japanese hospitality.

We found the rooms comfortable and loved soaking in the natural hot spring baths after a day of sightseeing. The local cuisine served up in the dining room is a real treat for the taste buds.

While the hotel’s charm lies in its traditional style, some travelers might find the futon beds on tatami mats less comfortable than Western-style beds.

Plus, English signage is limited, which could pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.

This spot is perfect for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience and hot spring enthusiasts.

It’s also a great base for skiers heading to nearby Zao Onsen resort. Couples and cultural explorers will appreciate the serene mountain setting and proximity to local attractions.

Key Points

Hotel Koyo Review - Key Points

  • Hotel Koyo is located in Kaminoyama, Yamagata, Japan, 17 km from Zao Onsen Ski Resort and 1.7 km from Kaminoyama-Onsen Station.
  • The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including Japanese-style rooms, deluxe rooms, standard twin rooms, junior suites, and suites with saunas.
  • Facilities include free private parking, complimentary WiFi, public baths, open-air baths, and hot spring baths fed by natural geothermal activity.
  • The hotel is known for its outstanding breakfast buffets, multi-course dinner menus featuring local Yamagata produce and seafood, and traditional Japanese spa experience.
  • Guests have rated the hotel highly, with an overall score of 8.8 and positive feedback on staff, facilities, cleanliness, and comfort.

Overview and Location

Hotel Koyo Review - Overview and Location

Located in Kaminoyama, Yamagata, Japan, Hotel Koyo is a ryokan situated 17 km from Zao Onsen Ski Resort and 1.7 km from Kaminoyama-Onsen Station.

The nearest airport is Yamagata Airport, 38 km away.

Perched at Hayama 5-20, the hotel features a geothermal area with nearby hot springs, offering guests a unique and rejuvenating experience.

With its convenient location and exceptional natural surroundings, Hotel Koyo provides the perfect base for exploring the Yamagata region and its many attractions.

Accommodation Options

Hotel Koyo Review - Accommodation Options

Hotel Koyo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit the diverse needs of its guests.

Visitors can choose from Japanese-style standard rooms with 4 futon beds, deluxe rooms with 7 futon beds, or standard twin rooms with 2 single beds.

For more space, the hotel provides a junior suite with 2 single beds and 3 futon beds, as well as a suite with a sauna that features 2 double beds and 4 futon beds.

All room types provide a comfortable and traditional Japanese ambiance, ensuring a relaxing stay.

Facilities and Amenities

Hotel Koyo Review - Facilities and Amenities

The hotel has an array of facilities and amenities to cater to the diverse needs of its guests.

Visitors can enjoy free private parking and complimentary WiFi access throughout the property. The hotel offers non-smoking rooms and family rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

Theres some good the rejuvenating experience of the public bath, open-air bath, and hot spring bath. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel features a sauna.

The 24-hour front desk and free shuttle service provide added convenience, while the luggage storage allows for hassle-free exploration of the local area.

Dining Experiences

Hotel Koyo Review - Dining Experiences

Guests often delight in the hotel’s outstanding breakfast buffets and set dinner meals.

The breakfast spread features a wide array of Japanese and Western favorites, including freshly prepared tamagoyaki, miso soup, and an assortment of grilled and pickled items.

Dinner is served as a multi-course set menu, showcasing the region’s finest seasonal ingredients. The hotel is particularly renowned for its use of local Yamagata produce and seafood.

Along With the main dining options, the property also provides kid-friendly meals and a vending machine for beverages.

With its exceptional culinary offerings, Hotel Koyo ensures guests savor the true flavors of the Yamagata countryside.

Geothermal Hot Springs

Located nearby, the geothermal hot springs are one of Hotel Koyo’s key highlights.

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s public bath, open-air bath, and hot spring bath, which are fed by the natural geothermal activity in the area. The hot springs offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, with the mineral-rich waters believed to have various health benefits.

Visitors can soak in the steaming waters, taking in the scenic mountain views that surround the hotel. The geothermal baths are a popular amenity, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy the traditional Japanese spa experience during their stay at Hotel Koyo.

Guest Ratings and Feedback

Hotel Koyo’s strong guest ratings and glowing feedback underscore its appeal as a premier ryokan destination.

Based on over 100 reviews, the hotel has earned an impressive overall score of 8.8, reflecting its excellence across key areas. Guests consistently praise the friendly, accommodating staff, earning a remarkable 9.4 rating.

The hotel’s facilities, including its rejuvenating baths, also receive high marks at 8.9. Cleanliness and comfort are standout strengths, with scores of 9.4 and 9.1, respectively.

While value for money is strong at 8.3, the hotel’s location receives the lowest, yet still solid, rating of 7.9.

Nearby Attractions

In close proximity to Hotel Koyo, visitors can enjoy the enchanting natural wonders of the Yamagata region. From the nearby Zao Onsen Ski Resort to the Kaminoyama-Onsen Station, there are plenty of attractions to explore. The table below highlights some of the top destinations within easy reach of the hotel.

Attraction Distance
Zao Onsen Ski Resort 17 km
Kaminoyama-Onsen Station 1.7 km
Yamagata Airport 38 km
Hayama Geothermal Area On-site

With easy access to these diverse sites, guests can seamlessly combine the comfort of Hotel Koyo with the natural beauty and cultural richness of the surrounding Yamagata landscape.

Getting to Hotel Koyo

Hotel Koyo Review - Getting to Hotel Koyo

Situated within the picturesque Yamagata prefecture, Hotel Koyo is easily accessible via a range of transportation options.

The closest airport is Yamagata Airport, located just 38 km away, making it a convenient arrival point. From there, guests can take a taxi or utilize the hotel’s free shuttle service to reach the property.

For those travelling by train, Kaminoyama-Onsen Station is only 1.7 km from the hotel, with regular services connecting to major cities.

Drivers will appreciate the free private parking available on-site.

With its strategic location and well-connected transportation links, Hotel Koyo ensures a seamless and accessible arrival for all guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hotel Koyo Review - Frequently Asked Questions

Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Drinks to the Hotel?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the hotel, though the hotel may have restrictions or charging policies for outside items brought onto the property.

Is There a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?

No, Hotel Koyo doesn’t have a fitness center or gym on-site. The hotel focuses on providing guests with traditional Japanese hospitality and amenities like public baths, saunas, and excellent dining options instead of fitness facilities.

Does the Hotel Offer Any Childcare or Babysitting Services?

The hotel does not appear to offer dedicated childcare or babysitting services. However, it provides family rooms and kid-friendly meals, suggesting an accommodating environment for families with children.

What Are the Hotel’s Check-In and Check-Out Times?

Check-in time is typically from 3:00 PM, while check-out time is usually by 10:00 AM. Guests are advised to confirm the exact check-in and check-out times with the hotel prior to their stay.

Are Pets Allowed to Stay at Hotel Koyo?

Pets are generally not allowed to stay at Hotel Koyo. The hotel caters to guests seeking a traditional Japanese ryokan experience and does not accommodate animals in order to maintain its clean, tranquil atmosphere.

The Sum Up

We stumbled upon this gem during our travels through Yamagata, and boy, were we in for a treat! Hotel Koyo whisked us away to a world of traditional Japanese charm, nestled amidst nature’s splendor.

From the moment we slipped into our yukata robes and sank into the geothermal hot springs, we knew we’d found something special. The warm hospitality enveloped us like a cozy blanket, while the authentic dining experiences had our taste buds doing the happy dance.

Whether you’re seeking zen-like relaxation or itching to explore the nearby attractions, this ryokan-style retreat has got you covered. We left feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and already planning our return visit.

Ready to embark on your own Japanese adventure? Hit that button below to book through Booking.com. It’s our go-to for hassle-free reservations (at no extra cost to you), and they often serve up some pretty sweet deals. Happy travels!