Takasagoya Ryokan

9.0
This Ryokan has an overall rating of 9.0/10, based on 196 reviews. ? Our score combines two signals: 50% based on traveler sentiment and guest feedback found online, and 50% based on our internal on-site evaluation plus ratings from verified travelers on our platform, who must provide proof of stay.
? This ranking compares properties in the same region. It is based on the overall rating and the number of reviews, using a weighted score so properties with more review data are ranked more fairly.
Check-in from 3:00 PM
Mountain Setting Hot Spring Town Quiet Village Public Onsen Hot Spring Bath
Staff 10,0/10
Facilities 8,0/10
Cleanliness 9,0/10
Comfort 9,0/10
Value for money 9,0/10
Location 9,0/10

Ryokan highlights

A family-run Zao Onsen ryokan known for homemade Yamagata cuisine and easy hot-spring access.

Central Zao BaseJust a 3-minute walk from Zao Onsen Bus Terminal for easy arrivals.
Hot Spring HoppingGuests receive bath tickets for nearby public baths and the large open-air bath.
Homemade Yamagata MealsHandmade seasonal dishes highlight local flavors like Yamagata beef, sansai, and mushrooms.
Warm Family HospitalityFamily-run atmosphere with three generations of hostesses gives the stay a personal feel.
Ski Area AccessWell placed for Zao Onsen sightseeing and winter sports, including the nearby ski area.
Traditional Tatami StaySmall-scale Japanese rooms and classic inn character suit travelers seeking a traditional stay.

Who is this ryokan best for?

Recommended stay1-2 nightsOnsen-town setting is the main driver: arrive mid-afternoon, soak before dinner, walk the small hot spring area, then use the next morning or full next day for the ropeway, shrine area, or skiing without rushing onward.
Trip-planning verdict: Best used as a 1-night to 2-night Zao Onsen stay for baths, mountain air, and seasonal ropeway or ski access, not as a long sightseeing base.

Know before booking

Limited long-stay depthZao Onsen is rewarding for baths and mountain scenery, but most travelers will run out of varied non-ski sightseeing after 1-2 nights.
Shared bath styleVerified lodging details point to public bath use rather than private in-room bathing, so privacy-focused travelers may be disappointed.
Mountain logisticsThis is not a city-center base; access is manageable but less convenient than staying near Yamagata Station for fast regional day trips.

Food & drinks

A small family-run ryokan at Zao Onsen 23 known for handmade seasonal Yamagata meals, with a few useful dining spots nearby.

Dining Room (on-site)
on-site

Handmade seasonal ryokan meals by the host family.

  • Asian breakfastfoodSimple Japanese-style morning meal.
  • Seasonal dinnerfoodHandmade multi-dish local meal.
  • Yamagata beefspecialtyLocal beef featured in some meals.
  • Sansai and mushroomsspecialtyMountain vegetables and wild mushrooms.
ZAO stand MY (nearby)
nearbynext door

Modern restaurant and bar beside the ryokan.

  • RamenfoodCasual noodle bowl.
  • OnigirifoodRice balls for a light meal.
  • WinedrinkEasy bar-style drinks.
  • Bar drinksdrinkRestaurant and bar menu.
Oto Chaya (nearby)
nearbyabout 10 min walk

Relaxed lunch cafe near the entrance to the hot spring town.

  • Soup curryfoodPopular cafe curry.
  • Yamagata beef dishesfoodLocal beef in cafe-style plates.
  • Homemade sweetsfoodHandmade desserts and cakes.
  • Coffee and matchadrinkCafe drinks for a break.

Access, transport and nearby sights

Takasagoya Ryokan is a central Zaō Onsen ryokan best reached via Yamagata Station and the Zaō Onsen Bus Terminal, with airports mainly serving as regional gateways rather than close access points.

Distances are approximate and calculated from the ryokan coordinates. Travel times may vary depending on route, traffic and schedules.

Should you choose this ryokan?

A well-located traditional ryokan in Zao Onsen that stands out for warm service, easy ski access, and good local meals. It suits travelers who want an authentic, friendly base more than those seeking private-bath comfort or a luxury onsen resort.

5 reasons to choose this ryokan best points
  • Excellent Zao Onsen locationThe ryokan sits in central Zao Onsen, within a short walk of the bus terminal, main street, public baths, and ski access. That makes it especially convenient if you are arriving by bus or mixing skiing with town strolls.
  • Warm family-style hospitalityGuest feedback consistently highlights the owners as exceptionally kind, helpful, and welcoming. The stay seems to feel personal rather than anonymous, which adds a lot to the ryokan experience.
  • Good base for skiingIt is well placed for the ski area and has practical features for winter travelers, including a drying room for ski gear. That is a real advantage in Zao, especially after snowy days on the mountain.
  • Strong meal experienceBreakfast and dinner are often praised, and the property is associated with carefully prepared local-style cuisine. This makes it a solid pick if meals are part of why you want a ryokan stay.
  • Spacious traditional roomsReviews frequently mention large, clean rooms with tatami-style character, and some note touches like kotatsu seating. It offers a classic Japanese inn atmosphere without feeling cramped.
5 reasons not to choose this ryokan watch-outs
  • The in-house bath is not true onsen waterSeveral guests note that the ryokan bath is convenient but not fed by the natural hot spring water. If your priority is soaking in an authentic on-site onsen, this may feel like a compromise.
  • Shared bathrooms may reduce comfortSome rooms rely on shared bathing facilities, and guests have specifically wished for private toilets and baths. Travelers used to hotel-style privacy may find that inconvenient.
  • Lots of stairs with luggageGuests mention a significant number of stairs, which can be tiring if you are carrying large suitcases or ski gear. This is worth noting for older travelers or anyone with mobility concerns.
  • Traditional bedding may not suit everyoneThe futon setup and firmer pillows are part of the ryokan style, but some guests found them less comfortable than Western beds. Light sleepers or those with neck or back sensitivity may notice it.
  • More cozy and practical than upscaleThe property seems strongest as a friendly, authentic, mid-range ryokan rather than a polished luxury retreat. If you want premium design, private open-air baths, or high-end resort features, it may feel too simple.

Ranking around this ryokan in Yamagata

Showing 5 above and 5 below the current ryokan. The full ranking loads only when you click or hover over this block.

Current position: 17th out of 47 ryokans in Yamagata.

Rank Ryokan Rating Reviews
12th Kinosato, auberge gastronomique à Zaō Onsen 9.1/10 316
13th Tsukinoike 9.3/10 38
14th Uesugi no Miyu Gotenmori 9.1/10 64
15th Tendo Onsen TAKINOYU 9.0/10 436
16th Kameya Hotel 9.0/10 207
17th Takasagoya Ryokan Current ryokan 9.0/10 196
18th Zao Shiki no Hotel 8.9/10 749
19th Tachibanaya 8.9/10 182
20th YuiLocalZao 9.6/10 5
21st Arimakan 8.9/10 42
22nd Yūsuitei Isagoya 8.8/10 639
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