Yudukushi salon Ichinobo

For our honeymoon, this all-inclusive resort gave us a really happy stay, and we ate as much as we wanted. If you enjoy a drink, it’s especially appealing: beer and sparkling wine are available from self-serve dispensers anytime, meals include a broad selection of sake, wine, and spirits, and unlimited Nikka whisky highballs are on tap too. Because the Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery is nearby, they sometimes serve single-malt Miyagikyo or Date whiskies at dinner or during evening shows. Dinner was among the best I’ve had. It’s set up more like a food court than a buffet, with chefs making dishes to order, so there’s no need to rush. We had Sendai beef steak, local grilled beef tongue, freshly fried tempura, and more. Desserts looked beautiful and could be customized. I especially loved the apple pie. Breakfast was just as enjoyable, with fresh French toast and lots of satisfying choices. They also had hand-drip coffee and tea in the morning, plus light afternoon snacks for guests staying multiple nights. The open-air baths alternate between men and women morning and evening. One is larger and the other smaller. From the bigger one, the valley view is breathtaking, with the river curving through the rocks in a U-shape, and there’s a sauna there too. The indoor baths are simple and very clean. The natural spring water is clear and well maintained, though not especially rich in minerals. After bathing, Daikon Café serves simmered radish and sweet amazake. Our “Satoyama Retreat” room had a private cypress bath, and I loved relaxing in it while looking outside. There are two ping-pong tables for some fun as a couple, but they’re popular, so reserving ahead is best. The outdoor spring surrounded by nature was moving. I also loved the peace of paying once when we booked and then eating and drinking freely, all at a high quality. A year later, we still talk about our honeymoon memories. We’d love to try another Ichinobo Group property for our fifth anniversary.

We loved this Onsen hotel. Both buffet meals had thoughtful dishes, and the staff were excellent, friendly, and helpful, even though they didn’t speak much English. We booked a room without a private Onsen and really regretted it. We’ll definitely come back and try one with a private Onsen.

The outdoor onsen in the river is a must, it was amazing. We also got a deluxe king room with its own private onsen and a fantastic view. This is the best hotel I’ve stayed at.

The meals were a highlight. They felt nothing like a Western buffet, more like having personal chefs prepare delicate, thoughtful dishes for us. Every course was beautifully done. The Hammock Room at Ichinobe Salon Hotel was cozy and distinctive, and unwinding in the hammock after exploring was lovely. The river bank view onsen was one of my best bathing experiences in Japan, and the shaved ice afterward was a great surprise. The evenings had their own charm: an 80’s night with a live DJ one night, followed by a lovely piano and violin concert the next. It made the stay feel intimate and special. A peaceful, culturally rich experience unlike anywhere else.