This is one of the most magical places we’ve stayed in Japan! This ryokan is so beautiful, and the service was impeccable. My husband and I are traveling throughout Japan for 3 weeks and we knew we wanted to stay at a ryokan in the Tohoku region at some point during our trip. I had originally wanted to stay in Ginzan onsen in Yamagata because I love Spirited Away by Studio Ghibli but the inns were all booked up. And I am so glad they were because then we would have missed out on this AMAZING place.
The Ichijo staff were so kind, welcoming and patient with us since our Japanese was limited. They were very attentive and helpful!
We stayed in the room that had the private outdoor bath and it was very very worth it! The room was beautiful, clean, and had everything one would need to have a relaxing stay. On our second day we explored the surrounding area, and took a walk up to the Kokeshi museum. After our trek it was so nice to wash off and then relax in the private bath. I can’t recommend the private bath suite enough!
We had the traditional Japanese dinner and breakfasts while we were here and everything we ate was delicious! My husband and I are somewhat of adventurous eaters and we loved everything they served us. The local beef/steak they prepared melted in our mouths! They also made homemade yogurt that was incredible! The traditional Japanese pickles were delicious as well!
Once again, the staff at Ichijo were so amazing, I can’t recommend this place enough! Thank you to Hamada-san for answering all of our questions and making our stay wonderful!
Although part of me wants to keep this place a secret, I will be telling all my friends and family about this wonderful place!
Thank you Yunushi Ichijo for having us! What a fantastic start...
Read moreWould highly recommend for relaxers and adventurers alike! Everything was above and beyond here. The staff were extremely beyond attentive and kind. They were very professional but not overly serious so everything had a greatly friendly feel to it. A special thank you to Hamada who made great conversation with me throughout my stay and who gave me lots of insight into the area and living in Japan.
Before this, in Tokyo, I splurged on a few fancy dinners and while the chef techniques at those restaurants certainly held their own, the produce in Tokyo, even at those higher end spots, couldn’t compete with some of the dishes I received day by day here which had extremely fresh fish. The uni and scallops were especially good.
I found this spot was great for not only relaxing but also exploring. The town is very quiet and has some interesting things to explore if you go looking for it. Lots and lots of forest to see if you don’t mind getting your hands a bit dirty too. Best part is you can come back and unwind in the hot spring!
5...
Read moreIf you're looking for a romantic place to spend time with your significant other--you really should go here. The rooms are beautiful with gorgeous views of the mountains or the village (the village itself is lovely). The service is perfect. The onsens are straight out of the mountain, hot and so relaxing. The food is sublime and elaborately presented in several fun interactive courses. ||||Don't let the cost discourage you. The meals (included in some rates) would be extremely expensive if you got them at a restaurant. And the ambience during mealtimes is priceless. ||||My wife and I stayed here for 3 days with the main purpose of visiting the nearby Fox Village (a MUST SEE!!!). We were snowed in one day and the management brought us a free lunch :) ||||Communication was not a big problem as our host spoke English quite well. The entire staff is kind and accommodating. They go out of their way to make your stay memorable. ||||My wife and I can't wait to go...
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