Marumine Kanko Hotel
8,5/10 Excellent - Read reviews
Immersed in a serene and refined atmosphere, the Marumine Kanko Hotel is an invitation to relaxation. Nestled in the heart of the Ashinomaki Onsen mountains, this ryokan in Aizuwakamatsu exudes Japanese elegance, with its open-air hot spring baths and sauna offering an unparalleled sensory escape. The perfectly landscaped gardens, bright spaces, and surrounding tranquility enhance an immersive experience dedicated to well-being. A free shuttle to Ashinomaki Station perfects a service focused on relaxation and visitor satisfaction.
Enhancing the art of Japanese hospitality, the rooms combine traditional aesthetics with modern amenities. Their tatami mats, plush futons, and private balconies are bathed in natural light, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. Some rooms, equipped with private open-air hot baths, elevate each moment of your stay with luxurious intimacy and a unique connection with nature. Comfort and sophistication meet with amenities such as Simmons mattresses, ensuring a restful sleep.
For gastronomy enthusiasts, Marumine offers kaiseki cuisine, a culinary celebration of Japanese culture served in a setting imbued with tranquility. The exquisite flavors of local ingredients perfectly harmonize with the surrounding landscapes. The rich and varied breakfast buffet or traditional Japanese-style options gently start the day. Nearby restaurants also offer a diverse palette of flavors, guaranteeing a memorable culinary adventure.
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A Genius discount of 10% or more may apply via this link.
Evaluation of Japanese Authenticity
9/10 Successful immersion thanks to architecture respecting traditional codes and harmonious spaces. The cuisine highlights the richness of local products with refinement. The onsen offers a soothing and authentic setting, enhanced by breathtaking views. The rooms balance modern comfort and classic Japanese aesthetics.
Highlights of the Ryokan
Thermal bath/onsen
Open-air bath
Public bath
Massages
Sauna
24-hour reception
Wi-Fi connection
Parking
Air conditioning
Restaurant
Positive Reviews
Stunning views and spacious rooms
Many guests appreciated the beautiful views of the river and mountains from their rooms, along with the spacious, comfortable, and traditional Japanese-style accommodations.
Excellent onsen facilities
The onsen, both communal and private in-room baths, were frequently highlighted as relaxing and authentic, offering a unique Japanese experience highly valued by guests.
Warm and attentive staff
Guests often mentioned the kindness and helpfulness of the staff, who made efforts to communicate and ensure a pleasant stay, even using translation tools when needed.
Varied and delicious food
Buffet breakfasts and dinners were described as varied, copious, and of good quality, with a wide selection of local and Western dishes, pleasing many visitors.
Family-friendly activities
Families enjoyed creative workshops and the hotel’s shuttle service, which was convenient for picking up guests from the station and accommodating special situations.
Traditional and authentic atmosphere
The hotel’s traditional Japanese ambiance, from the decor to the guest experience, was praised as authentic and charming, making it a memorable destination.
Negative Reviews
Some areas feel dated or in need of renovation
Several reviews mentioned that parts of the hotel, including bathrooms and corridors, appeared old or showed signs of wear, though some renovations are ongoing.
Unpleasant odors and humidity in some sections
A few guests noticed strong or unpleasant smells and humidity in certain corridors or rooms, which slightly affected their comfort during the stay.
Limited dining options and buffet style
Some guests felt that the only dining option was the buffet, which could be expensive or not to everyone’s liking, and wished for more varied choices.
Hotel can feel large and impersonal
The hotel’s size and the presence of tour groups led some guests to feel like just a room number, especially during buffet meals in large dining halls.
Issues with temperature and comfort
There were comments about the hotel being too hot or too cold in certain areas, with some rooms or corridors feeling chilly or overly warm.
Remote location and accessibility challenges
The hotel’s location, while scenic, can be challenging without a car, requiring careful planning for public transport or reliance on the hotel’s shuttle.
Are there hot spring baths (onsen) within the ryokan?
Yes, the Marumine Kanko Hotel has several hot spring baths (onsen), including a public bath, an outdoor bath, and a sauna. Some rooms also offer a private open-air hot bath with a view of the valley.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
You can check in at the Marumine Kanko Hotel between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Check-out is before 10:00 AM.
What languages are spoken at the hotel?
The staff primarily speaks Japanese. If you do not speak Japanese, please prepare your needs in advance to facilitate communication.
Are there any restrictions or specific regulations?
The establishment is entirely non-smoking, and pets are not allowed. Additionally, children over 3 years old will be charged at the adult rate.
What wellness services are offered?
The ryokan offers a variety of wellness services, including public and private hot spring baths, a sauna, as well as a range of massages such as foot, back, or couple massages, available by reservation and at an additional cost.
What dining options are available?
A traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner is served in the dining area. For breakfast, you can choose between a buffet or a Japanese-style meal. Special diet options and children’s menus are also available upon request.
Does the ryokan have parking?
Yes, free private parking is available on-site for guests. There is no need to reserve a spot in advance.
What tourist attractions are nearby?
The ryokan is located near many places of interest, including Aizuwakamatsu Castle (14 km), the historic village of Ouchijuku (14 km), and Ashinomaki Station, accessible via a free shuttle service.
Are pets allowed in the establishment?
No, pets are not allowed in the establishment.
Are there cultural activities offered on-site?
The Aizuwakamatsu region is rich in history and culture. Although the ryokan does not directly organize cultural activities, many historical sites such as the castle or Ouchijuku allow for the discovery of local culture.
What transportation options are available to get to the ryokan?
The establishment offers a free shuttle service from Ashinomaki Station. Additionally, regional train services, like Yunokami-Onsen Station, are a few kilometers from the hotel.
Do the rooms have Wi-Fi?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available free of charge in the common areas of the establishment and in the rooms.
