Best Ryokans in Fukushima

If you’re looking to experience delectable food and samurai culture, then Fukushima is the perfect destination for you. Situated about 90 minutes north of Tokyo via shinkansen (bullet train), the prefecture offers relaxing onsen (hot springs), to breathtaking cherry blossoms, and even mountain slopes covered in powdery snow.

Whether you’re coming here in the hot summer months or the chilly winter, Fukushima has something to look forward to. But to really get the most out of your visit, we suggest staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) throughout the duration of your trip and experiencing a charm that’s unique to Japan. Here’s our compiled list of the best ryokans in Fukushima.

Aizu Ashinomaki Onsen Okawaso boasts open-air baths with superb views overlooking the mountain stream. This ryokan offers a variety of spacious guestrooms, including traditional Japanese-style rooms lined with tatami mat flooring and a Western-style option with a modern twist. 

While here, you surely would not want to miss the live shamisen (a three-stringed traditional Japanese instrument) performance at the Ukiyo Stage, aimed to soothe the hearts of guests with traditional tunes. 

Situated in Aizuwakamatsu City, Aizu-Higashiyama Onsen Shosuke no Yado Takinoyu invites guests to take a soothing soak in their relaxing hot spring while enjoying a stunning view of the waterfall. Guestrooms here are spacious, clean, and come fully stocked with amenities, while the breakfast-inclusion plan offers meals featuring fresh ingredients to create dishes based on Aizu’s local cuisine. Other on-site facilities include a local sake section, footbath, as well as free parking for those traveling via car.

Takayu Onsen Adachiya boasts an antique atmosphere and a dining experience that emphasizes traditional Japanese hearth. This establishment proudly presents itself as a retreat that showcases the beauty of all four seasons, with clean, luxurious rooms that provide spectacular views of the surrounding nature. But the highlight of this ryokan, however, is its hot spring that is sure to ease any aches you might have during your travels.

Offering privately reservable lookout baths with water from a naturally sourced spring, Aizu-Higashiyama Onsen Harataki is for those looking for a getaway near nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The meals provided at this establishment include a luxurious selection of local cuisine where you can try out Fukushima’s mouthwatering Kuroge Wagyu. If you visit during the spring and summer months, the riverside dining area will be open, giving you a dazzling view to go with your meal.

Considered a national cultural property inn, Aizu-Higashiyama Onsen Mukaitaki uses directly sourced hot spring water inherited from the ancient Aizu clan. Here, guests are invited to take a calming dip in the variety of hot spring baths provided on-site and to try the succulent seasonal dishes available. The guestrooms at this establishment are not only comfortably spacious, but the stunning courtyard view highlights the four seasons of Aizu, as well as brings a vibrant color to the spectacular craftsmanship of the wooden architecture.

Located near the Arakawa River, Tsuchiyu Onsen Hotel Sansuiso is a true hot spring inn that invites guests to come kick back and relax while listening to the magnificent sounds of the nearby waterfall. At this establishment, there are a variety of room types to choose from, including the traditional Japanese room, complete with a marvelous view of the garden, or the luxury Japanese-Western rooms that come with an open-air hot spring bath, perfect for those traveling with a big party.

Equipped with two grand baths and 30 bathtubs, Bandai Atami Onsen Hotel Hananoyu aims to provide guests with great quality service and a luxurious experience. Guestrooms are clean, spacious, and stocked with all the amenities that you might need throughout the duration of your stay. After taking the chance to de-stress with a tranquil soak, you can also try out their delectable selection of seasonal dishes, served in a semi-private dining venue with partitions.

At Aizu Higashiyama Onsen On-yado Toho (Orix Hotels), guests are invited to delight in the popular buffet and open-air bath, complete with a panoramic view of the castle town. This ryokan offers luxurious rooms with a breakfast-and-dinner meal-inclusion plan, all for a relatively affordable price. Perfect for those looking to unwind in style without breaking the bank.

As a long-established inn, Aizu Ashinomaki Onsen Marumine Kanko Hotel prides itself on its various hot springs and delicious dishes. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, ranging from rooms equipped with a plush mattress or a comfortable futon to rest their head on for the night. The highlight of this establishment, however, is the large on-site bath, complete with a gorgeous view of the valley. You surely wouldn't want to miss the chance to try the open-air bath and ancient cypress bath either!

Eirakukan boasts itself as a welcoming hot spring inn that provides friendly service. At this establishment, guests are invited to indulge themselves in a course meal highlighting the rich local ingredients available in and around the Fukushima area. But while here, don’t forget to treat yourself to a calming dip at the natural hot springs, which feature a unique blend of private alkaline simple springs and municipal spring water that leaves your skin feeling silky smooth.