Shiobara Onsen Ryokan Majimaso

The landlady had such a soothing manner, and the food was excellent from one dish to the next. The spring water comes straight from the source and is a little warm, so you can soak for as long as you like. There were a few people staying on their own, too. I found it a lovely place to unwind, and left wanting to come back. Thank you very much m(_ _)m

We came as a couple after both dealing with cancer around the same time, hoping the hot springs might help with immunity and natural healing. This feels more like a company retreat or rehabilitation center than a place chosen for charm or atmosphere, and it seems clear why people return specifically for shiatsu. We’d like to make it a regular visit. The layout is spacious throughout, from the grounds, parking, entrance, front desk, and corridors to the large bath, changing room, treatment room, and toilets. Single rooms are available, which makes it easy to stay. The natural spring water flows continuously, and the bath is open all day and night. It’s large for the number of rooms, with plenty of space both in the washing area and the tub. Meals are straightforward and mostly home-cooked, with a warm feel, and everything was genuinely tasty. They’ll accommodate requests for less salt. I never expected nearly salt-free grilled ayu to taste so good. Rice from nearby farmers was delicious, and the proprietress kindly offered refills. The Wi-Fi worked properly too. I soaked after checking in to warm up before my shiatsu treatment, then went back in afterward to soothe my relaxed body before dinner. I could feel the warmth from deep inside and my blood flowing freely. The master, young master, and young proprietress were all simple, friendly, kind-hearted people.

The view from our room was lovely, with fresh green outside the windows and the river murmuring right in front. The hot spring water was gentle on the skin, and there were regular baths, a lie-down bubble bath, and a walking bath. In the morning sun, I also enjoyed the outdoor bath with peach blossom petals floating in it. It was my first massage. The owner described the feeling as first exhilarating, then refreshing, and he was right. I left feeling warm and light. The meal was delicious too, from the seasonal seared Spanish mackerel and sirloin steak to the watercress and hijiki clear soup and strawberries for dessert. The waitress was cheerful and fun, and served everything at just the right pace. Majimaso is a little way from Shiobara Onsen, and the views, baths, massage, and food made for a very satisfying stay. I highly recommend it.

For my daughter’s end-of-year gift, we booked a 2-night, 3-day stay. She felt it was the right choice for my physical and mental health as I approach my 70th birthday next year. I’m 69, and I came away thinking she was right. The homemade meals were delicious, with menus planned around guests’ health, and the service throughout our stay was wonderful. The hot springs were lovely, but the skilled therapist’s massage was the best part. It left both my mind and body feeling renewed. I’d like to return in every season, and wholeheartedly recommend the place.