Sannojoyu

The onsen is tiny and alternates between men and women, but it was relaxing. I used it in the morning and again at night. I stayed two nights with breakfast and enjoyed it a lot. The food was amazing. Dinner costs ¥3000-¥5000 per person. There’s a shrine nearby, and the train stop is right outside the hotel. I’d like to visit again!

The meals were a highlight: dinner and breakfast both used fresh local ingredients and were made with a lot of care. The onsen water was lovely too. It started out too hot for us to get in, but once the staff realized the temperature was too high, they adjusted it quickly and it was just right. The service was excellent throughout. Staff went out of their way to make us comfortable, even waiting by the windows to wave goodbye as we boarded the train. The ryokan is right opposite the train station. We had a fantastic time.

Really good service, and the hot bath water felt very smooth.

This is a small inn. Sannojo is known for Akakura Onsen, but this place doesn’t seem to have any connection to that inn. The spring is bicarbonate-based and apparently neutral. It feels slimy, about on the same level as Takeo Onsen. It’s warmer than Oyasukyo Onsen in Akita, though not as hot as Hanezawa Onsen in Yamagata or Yutakuhide in Shintoro. The tub is small, probably only room for about four people, with just three faucets. The water is around 42 degrees. You can buy ice cream after bathing for an extra charge, and the rooms are apparently heated with hot spring water. Upstairs, the toilet is unisex, with the men’s area separated only by a curtain. I think that should be improved.