In our review, we found this charming Japanese inn to be a hidden gem in Kuroishi. Tucked away in Aomori, it’s a peaceful retreat that puts you close to natural wonders and historic sites. The rooms are cozy, the food is fresh and local, and the hot spring baths are a real treat. The owners run the place themselves, giving it a warm, homey feel.
While the inn is lovely, it’s worth noting that it’s not within walking distance of major attractions, so you’ll need transportation to explore the area. Also, some travelers might find the traditional futon bedding takes a bit of getting used to.
This spot is perfect for those looking to experience authentic Japanese hospitality away from the tourist crowds. It’s ideal for nature lovers who want to unwind after a day of hiking, or culture enthusiasts eager to enjoy local traditions.
If you’re seeking a quiet, rejuvenating stay with a personal touch, this inn should be at the top of your list.
Key Points
- Tabinoyado Saikawa is a highly-rated Japanese-style ryokan (inn) located in Kuroishi, Aomori, with easy access to popular tourist attractions like Lake Towada and Hirosaki Castle.
- The ryokan offers a variety of traditional Japanese-style rooms, including single, twin, and triple options, with features like tatami flooring and flat-screen TVs.
- Guests praise the exceptional hospitality, with friendly staff, personalized service, and a familial atmosphere, as well as the delicious home-cooked meals using local and organic ingredients.
- The ryokan’s onsen (hot spring) facilities provide an authentic Japanese bathing experience, with private outdoor baths and mineral-rich communal pools.
- Tabinoyado Saikawa has clear policies and regulations, including check-in/check-out times, child-friendly accommodations, and cash-only payments, ensuring a smooth and transparent guest experience.
Overview and Location
Tabinoyado Saikawa is a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, located in Kuroishi, Aomori, Japan.
It’s situated 20 miles from Lake Towada, 22 miles from Sannai-Maruyama Site, 14 miles from Hirosaki Castle, and 21 miles from Aomori Airport.
This ryokan has earned an impressive 8.8 rating based on 84 reviews, showcasing its commitment to providing a high-quality guest experience.
[FIRST SUBTOPIC] is a well-rounded overview of Tabinoyado Saikawa‘s location and general information.
The ryokan’s proximity to popular tourist attractions and its strong rating suggest it’s a desirable destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese lodging experience.
Accommodation at Tabinoyado
The ryokan offers a variety of Japanese-style room types to suit different guest needs. Guests can choose from single rooms, twin rooms with shared or private bathrooms, and triple rooms with shared bathrooms. All rooms feature tatami flooring and a flat-screen TV, ensuring a traditional and comfortable stay.
| Room Type | Bathroom |
|---|---|
| Japanese-Style Single | Shared |
| Japanese-Style Twin | Shared or Private |
| Japanese-Style Triple | Shared |
Along With the guest rooms, the ryokan provides free private parking, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and access to spa facilities, catering to the needs of modern travelers.
Exceptional Hospitality
Guests consistently praise the exceptional hospitality at Tabinoyado Saikawa. The owner’s warm and attentive approach sets the tone, ensuring a memorable experience.
Some highlights include:
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Friendly staff who greet guests with genuine smiles and go above and beyond to accommodate requests.
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Personalized service, from offering recommendations on local attractions to catering to dietary needs.
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The owner’s dedication to making each guest feel like a valued part of the Tabinoyado family.
This attention to detail and genuine care for guests’ comfort and satisfaction are the hallmarks of Tabinoyado Saikawa’s exceptional hospitality.
Culinary Delights
Aside from its exceptional hospitality, Tabinoyado Saikawa delights guests with its culinary offerings.
The ryokan’s breakfast is widely praised as the best home-cooked meal, featuring local and organic ingredients. Guests appreciate the personal touch from the owner in preparing these delicious meals.
Dinner options are also available, catering to various dietary needs, including vegan preferences.
The quality of the food and the attention to detail in the dining experience contribute to the overall positive reviews from guests, who describe the meals as a highlight of their stay.
Onsen Experience
Within the charming confines of Tabinoyado Saikawa, guests can indulge in the soothing embrace of the ryokan’s onsen facilities.
The onsen experience offers a truly authentic Japanese ambiance, complete with:
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Private outdoor baths, where visitors can relax and unwind while surrounded by serene natural landscapes.
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Communal indoor pools, heated to the perfect temperature and infused with mineral-rich waters.
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Tranquil changing areas adorned with traditional Japanese decor, providing a peaceful transition between the everyday and the restorative.
Guests rave about the restorative qualities of the onsen, praising it as the perfect complement to the ryokan’s exceptional hospitality and cuisine.
Policies and Regulations
Tabinoyado Saikawa’s policies and regulations provide a clear framework for guests’ stays. Check-in is from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and check-out is by 10:00 AM. Children of all ages are welcome, but cribs and extra beds are not available. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited on the premises. Payments are accepted in cash only.
| Policies | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM |
| Check-out | Until 10:00 AM |
| Children | Welcome, no cribs/extra beds |
| Pets | Not allowed |
| Smoking | Not permitted |
| Payment | Cash accepted |
Nearby Attractions
Though located in a relatively remote area, Tabinoyado Saikawa offers guests a wealth of natural and cultural attractions within a short distance.
Visitors can explore the stunning Lake Towada, just 20 miles away, with its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings.
The Sannai-Maruyama Site, an archaeological wonder dating back over 5,000 years, is just 22 miles from the ryokan.
Closer to home, guests can visit the impressive Hirosaki Castle, with its beautiful gardens and historic architecture, located only 14 miles away.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
Guests have overwhelmingly praised Tabinoyado Saikawa’s exceptional hospitality and friendly staff, awarding the ryokan an exceptional rating of 9.7 out of 10. The ryokan also received high marks for cleanliness (8.9), comfort (9.0), and value for money (8.7), though its location (7.9) was a slightly lower point. Guests particularly appreciated the free Wi-Fi, which earned a 9.2 rating.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.7 |
| Cleanliness | 8.9 |
| Comfort | 9.0 |
| Value for Money | 8.7 |
| Location | 7.9 |
| Free Wi-Fi | 9.2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Day Use Facilities or Public Onsen Available for Guests?
The ryokan offers spa facilities, including private onsen, for guests to enjoy, but there is no mention of any public onsen or day use facilities being available on the property.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for Bookings at Tabinoyado Saikawa?
The cancellation policy allows guests to cancel or modify their bookings free of charge up to 1 day prior to their scheduled arrival. A full refund is provided for cancellations made before this period.
Are There Any Discounts or Promotional Offers for Long-Term Stays?
The ryokan doesn’t appear to offer any special discounts or promotions for longer stays. However, guests may be able to negotiate better rates for extended bookings by directly contacting the hotel.
Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Beverages to the Ryokan?
Guests are generally not permitted to bring outside food and drinks into the ryokan. The ryokan provides delicious home-cooked meals using local, organic ingredients, catering to various dietary needs. Outside food may only be allowed with prior arrangement.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Policies for Children at Tabinoyado Saikawa?
Children of all ages are welcome at this ryokan, though no cribs or extra beds are available. There are no age restrictions, and the ryokan has an accommodating policy for families with young kids.
The Sum Up
We found this ryokan to be a real gem, tucked away in the heart of Aomori. It’s like stepping into a time machine, whisking you back to traditional Japan, but with all the modern comforts you need.
The rooms here are classic ryokan style – think tatami mats and sliding doors. But don’t worry, you won’t be roughing it. The service is top-notch, and the home-cooked meals? Let’s just say you might need to loosen your obi after dinner.
Now, let me tell you about the onsen. There’s nothing quite like soaking in these hot springs after a day of exploring. It’s the perfect way to wash away your travel stress and emerge feeling like a new person.
Location-wise, you’re in the sweet spot. Close enough to the main attractions, but far enough away to feel like you’re in your own little oasis.
If you’re itching to book this slice of Japanese heaven, just hit the button below. It’ll take you to Booking.com, which is my go-to for reservations. They usually have competitive prices, and the best part? Booking through them is absolutely free. Happy travels!