Iwamuro Onsen Menmentei Wataya

I came for a day visit to use the baths. I think reception was open from 11:00 to 14:00. The bath is on the fifth floor with a view. The changing room was clean, though the bathing area looked worn. I was a little surprised that both the indoor and outdoor baths were so small for an inn of this size. There were seven washing stations and one tub inside, enough for maybe eight people comfortably. The outdoor bath had just one tub and felt cramped even with three people. More than five chairs could have fit there, but there wasn't a single one. A fence blocks much of the view, so you have to stand to see Iwamuro town and the surrounding countryside. There is no sauna. The spring water is an unusual mix of Iwamuro Onsen and Dairo Onsen (Dairo no Yu), and it was a really nice bath. I didn't check whether there are other large public baths on other floors, but it might be best to avoid going when it's busy.

We stayed on April 30, 2026, four adults for about 120,000 yen, and had a private hot spring bath. The unusual black water in the room's private bath is a natural free-flowing spring; the other baths use recirculated water. I'd recommend booking a room with a private spring bath. The inn is kept very clean, but there are lots of steps, so it isn't suitable for people with disabilities.

It seemed to be a quiet day, which let me take my time and enjoy both the bath and the meal. I'm grateful for how attentive the woman at the front desk was. The facility was clean too, and it made for a fun hot spring trip.

The staff were kind and friendly, and the service was excellent. I'd definitely stay again. Shoes are left at the entrance when you check in, and you can go barefoot in the building except in the restrooms. If you prefer slippers when using the bed, bring room slippers. The cleaning was so thorough that the stay felt very pleasant. Meals were lightly seasoned, letting the ingredients come through. The grilled blackthroat seaperch arrived piping hot and was a real treat. The Murakami beef sukiyaki was flavorful too, and choosing the chef's recommended course was the right call. Everything was tasty and there was plenty of it. The large public bath doesn't have separate men's and women's bathing times. The water isn't free-flowing from the source, but it is undiluted and free-flowing, which was fine. We had a room with a private hot spring bath, though its 41-degree water needed warming by running the tap, a bit of a hassle. The water left our skin feeling incredibly smooth. There are no alcohol vending machines. The shop has chilled Super Dry beer, highballs, and two kinds of 4% chu-hi, while the room fridge is empty, so bring your own drinks.