Ryokan Seifuso

We had a huge tatami room with a little kitchenette and our own toilet. The shared showers were lockable, recently renovated, and roomy by western standards. There's a spacious drying room, plus paid parking right out front and free parking a few steps up the street. Tim, Mel, and the rest of the crew were so friendly and helpful. It was very relaxed, and they were happy to chat or answer questions whenever we came and went. The place is centrally located, a short walk from the lifts, but far enough from the Main Street to be quiet. Bars and restaurants are still easy to walk to.

We stayed in the Snowflake room, a charming traditional Japanese-style room with tatami floors. If you're after a local Japanese-style experience, this hotel fits. The hotel is just off the main street, so you don't hear pedestrians talking loudly and it's quiet. The nearest ski lift is close enough to walk to with your ski or snowboard gear. Hotel Taiko, with the nearest onsen, is only a stone's throw away, and Joey's is nearby for equipment rentals. There are plenty of restaurants around for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. A nearby post office also provides shuttle service to the Myoko Kogen train station.

We first came to Seifuso last year, and this was our second visit. The food is super delicious, with so many different dishes that the dinner menu never repeats. Their private semi open air onsen is lovely, and the hot spring water is outstanding. A kind, friendly couple runs the place very well. Definitely a place to stay when visiting Akakura!

My husband and I spent four nights at this well-run ryokan, and we enjoyed it so much that I'd come back. The food was delicious, with different dishes every night, and both the room and bath were very clean. We also liked the private open bath and found it a fun experience. The friendly couple who run the ryokan spoke little English, but we were able to communicate well.