Arimakan
9,2/10 Exceptional - Based on 88 reviews
Nestled in the serenity of the Kaminoyama mountains, Arimakan offers a soothing atmosphere where nature and well-being meet. This ryokan in Kaminoyama provides a range of relaxing facilities, including a hot spring bath with calming properties, a hot tub, and a sauna for a rejuvenating experience. The terrace and garden offer an ideal setting to reconnect with nature, while the wellness service, including massages, invites you on a true sensory journey. With free Wi-Fi and modern amenities, the perfect balance between tradition and comfort is ensured.
The rooms, spacious and full of charm, combine Japanese elegance with modern conveniences. Whether you choose a family suite or a standard room, each is equipped with traditional tatamis and carefully selected furniture, with modern touches such as satellite TV, a kettle, and a refrigerator. The private bathroom ensures total privacy, while the beds or futons offer optimal comfort. Each space has been designed to invite rest and contemplation, echoing the surrounding calm.
On the culinary side, Arimakan delights with its local cuisine served in a modern and warm setting. The restaurant offers delicious dishes suitable for different dietary requirements, such as vegetarian specialties. Nearby, local restaurants further enrich the dining possibilities, giving visitors an authentic taste of the region’s flavors. This ryokan is a haven of culture and relaxation in Kaminoyama.
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A Genius discount of 10% or more may apply via this link.
Evaluation of Japanese Authenticity
8/10 The rooms harmoniously combine tatamis and modern furniture, while the carefully prepared meals highlight Japanese culinary traditions. The ryokan offers welcoming onsen baths with views, although incorporating a degree of modernity. The overall traditional architecture, however, lacks some authentic touches that would enrich the experience.
Highlights of the Ryokan
Thermal bath/onsen
Outdoor bath
Public bath
Massages
Sauna
24-hour reception
Tatami
Refrigerator
Terrace/Balcony
Wi-Fi connection
Parking
Air conditioning
Disabled access
Breakfast
Positive Reviews
Exceptional hospitality and friendly staff
Guests consistently mention the staff being incredibly friendly, helpful, and going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Service is highly praised.
Delicious and plentiful meals
The food, including both breakfast and dinner, is described as delicious, beautifully presented, and plentiful. Special dietary needs are accommodated, and local specialties are highlighted.
Wonderful onsen experience
The hotel offers exceptional onsen facilities, including private and rooftop options with mountain views. Guests found them relaxing, clean, and a highlight of their stay.
Spacious and comfortable rooms
Rooms are often described as large, clean, comfortable, and with great views. Many guests appreciated the traditional style and the attention to detail in room amenities.
Great location and tranquil atmosphere
The property is noted for its peaceful and quiet surroundings, being close to local attractions like the castle, and providing a restful retreat for travelers.
Convenient services and thoughtful extras
Free shuttle service to the station, help with luggage, and a well-stocked gift shop are mentioned as thoughtful extras that made stays more convenient and enjoyable.
Negative Reviews
Some rooms show signs of age
A few guests noted that parts of the property or some rooms felt a little bit old, but generally did not find this to be a major issue during their stay.
Occasional difficulty with restaurant options nearby
Some found it challenging to locate open restaurants in the surrounding town on certain nights, though the hotel dining was highly rated.
Room entrance and view concerns
A guest mentioned the entrance door being low and only separated by a curtain, which affected privacy. Some views from windows were not as appealing as expected.
Pillow comfort preferences
One guest noted that the pillows were not the traditional buckwheat type they had hoped for, though overall room comfort remained high.
Pricing for dinner can be high
A guest felt that dinner was overpriced, suggesting it is good to check prices beforehand. However, the quality and variety of the meal were appreciated.
Mixed experiences with certain baths
While onsen facilities are a highlight, one guest found the basement bath less appealing and felt the in-room dining table placement could be improved.
What are the check-in and check-out times at the Arimakan ryokan?
Check-in is between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM, while check-out is scheduled between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM. Please note that access to the establishment will not be possible between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM.
Does Arimakan have an onsen, and what facilities are offered?
Yes, the Arimakan ryokan offers a hot spring bath (onsen), a hot tub/jacuzzi, and a sauna. These facilities provide an ideal moment of relaxation in a natural setting.
What languages are spoken at Arimakan?
The staff at Arimakan speaks several languages, including English, Japanese, Hindi, Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese, to ensure a warm welcome to all guests.
What are the important restrictions or regulations to know before staying here?
The establishment is entirely non-smoking and does not accept pets. Only credit/debit cards are accepted; cash is not. Children are not allowed in the establishment.
Are wellness services available on-site?
Yes, Arimakan offers wellness services, including massages (for a fee) and an outdoor public bath, in addition to facilities such as the thermal bath and sauna.
What dining options do you offer?
The Arimakan ryokan offers Asian and vegetarian breakfasts. An in-room breakfast service is also available for added convenience.
Is parking available, and is it free?
Yes, the ryokan offers free private parking on site, which is also accessible to people with reduced mobility. No advance reservation is necessary.
What tourist and leisure activities can be done nearby?
Near Arimakan, you can enjoy various activities such as skiing, fishing, hiking, as well as visiting the Lina World amusement park or the Zao Onsen ski resort.
Can pets be brought to the ryokan?
No, pets are not allowed in the establishment to ensure the comfort of all guests.
Do you offer cultural activities within the ryokan?
While Arimakan does not directly offer cultural activities, the Kaminoyama area is rich in history and offers unique cultural experiences to explore.
How to get to Arimakan from the station or airport?
Arimakan is less than 1 km from Kaminoyama-Onsen Station and 37 km from Yamagata Airport. It is easily accessible by taxi from these arrival points.
Do you offer specific services for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the establishment is equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility with visual aids, toilets with grab bars, and elevator access to upper floors.
