An affiliated inn of Harataki, Konjakutei is a beautiful hideaway for travelers. The large baths are abundantly sourced with hot water piped directly from Konjakutei's own hot spring source, ensuring guests can enjoy good quality hot spring water every time they bathe.
The daily menu prepared by Konjakutei's chef is one of the biggest draws of the ryokan hotel. From early summer, when the outdoor restaurant Waterside Dining Kawadoko opens , guests can enjoy exquisite meals surrounded by sparkling lights, the sound of the nearby stream, and a pleasant breeze. Visitors are sure to enjoy the special Japanese course menu served at Kawadoko.
| Website | https://konjakutei.yumeguri.co.jp/lang/?lang=en |
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| Contact | Harataki/Konjakutei Reservation Center (+81) 242‐26‐4126 |
| Parking | Available |
| Accommodation details | Capacity: 25 rooms (Accommodating 110 guests) Room styles: Japanese style / Combination style / Twin Room charge: One night with two meals: From 16,950 (Tax incl.) Check in / Check out: 14:00 / 11:00 Meals: Japanese-style course dining Hot springs: Sulfate hot spring Pets: No |
| Related info | Facilities: Café/Bar |
| Book a room | TripAdvisor.com |
| Access | 247 Yumoto, Higashiyama-machi, Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Fukushima Pref. 965-0814 View directions |
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| Getting there | By Car: 20 min from Aizu-Wakamatsu I.C. exit off the Ban-etsu Expressway By Train: 20 min via town loop bus from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (JR Ban-etsu West Line) Mapcode for Car GPS:97 205 474*24 |
When visiting Tsurugajo Castle, remember to check out the Rinkaku Tea Ceremony Room, which is situated inside the castle grounds. The beautiful Japanese garden surrounding the tea room is well worth a visit. What's more, you can enjoy traditional Japanese matcha tea together with a seasonal treat, all while looking out at the fantastic foliage of the garden.
Bookings for the akabeko painting can be made on the official reservation page.What is 'Akabeko'?The akabeko legend started at Enzoji Temple in Yanaizu Town, in the Aizu region. The construction of this temple began in the year 807, but due to a huge earthquake at the end of the seventeenth century, it had to be repaired in 1617. It was during the reconstruction of the temple that the akabeko became a folk legend.It is said that moving the wood and other supplies necessary for the reconstruction work was incredibly difficult because materials had to be transported from various villages upstream of the Tadami River. The materials were heavy and the journey to the temple was long. Cattle were used to transport materials, but many struggled to bear their loads.Then, out of nowhere, appeared a cow with a red coat. (It should be noted that, in the past, the word ‘red’ was used to describe the color ‘brown’, so it is likely that it was a brown cow.) The red cow supported the other cows and helped the priests who were constructing the temple until it was completed. Then, it suddenly vanished.'Akabeko' means 'red cow' in the local dialect.A number of statues of the cow were built inside the temple grounds so that the people of Yanaizu could express their gratitude to the akabeko.In the years following, there was a range of legends about the akabeko, with stories such as families who owned akabeko being rid of sickness upon stroking the cows. They continued to hold their status of bringers of good luck and strength. Families bought or made akabeko toys for their young children to play with.Akabeko Painting ExperiencesIn recent history, the Aizu tradition of painting akabeko began. It is said that this tradition started as something to do for children visiting Aizu-Wakamatsu City as part of school trips. This was when the story of the Akabeko evolved once more, into its newest papier-mâché form. The stripes on the face and back of the papier-mâché Akabeko are said to represent strength and perseverance.There are a number of workshops in Aizu-Wakamatsu City where you can paint your own Akabeko. Most workshops offer the standard red, white, and black paint. These talismans for good health make very cute and lightweight souvenirs to take home for family and friends – or keep for yourself! Those who prefer to buy a ready-painted Akabeko will be able to find it at most souvenir shops.BookingIf you would like to book an akabeko painting experience at the Tsurugajo Kaikan (a shopping complex located next to Tsurugajo Castle), please access this page.
You can try out the Mugenkyo no Watashi River Crossing on the Tadami River for a unique Japanese experience! Sit back, and enjoy the beautiful views as you make your way from one side of the Tadami River to the other. The boat trips are around 15 minutes per way, and run between Hayato Onsen pier and the Mifuke area.Booking & More Information
A little-known treasure, Aizu Hongo pottery (known in Japanese as 'hongo-yaki') is the oldest type of pottery in the Tohoku region. Aizu Hongo pottery's history dates back to the Warring States Period (1467 – 1615), when Ujisato Gamo, leader of the Aizu clan, ordered renovations be made to Tsurugajo Castle. The production of ceramic tiles for the castle roof kick-started the tradition of making pottery in Aizu-Misato Town. During the early 1600s, Masayuki Hoshina (who founded the Matsudaira house) invited ceramic craftsmen to Aizu-Misato from Owari - a region famous for its pottery - in order to increase the skills of locals.It was from this time that Aizu Hongo-yaki production began in earnest. At the peak of its popularity, there were more than 100 potteries in the town. There are currently 13 left, which are centered around Setomachi in Aizu-Misato. The rich variety of wares produced from workshop to workshop is just one of the fascinating things about visiting the area. Aizu-Misato Town is also known for the area's unusual ability to produce both great-quality earthenware and delicate porcelain.Please enjoy taking a look around the various shops, workshops, and kilns, and try making pottery for yourself!
Nestled in the tranquil mountains of Fukushima, Futamata Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan is a serene onsen retreat known for its five distinct natural hot springs. Each bath is supplied with fresh, pure spring water directly from the source, providing guests with an exceptional onsen experience. The high-quality water, sourced directly from the earth, ensures a truly rejuvenating soak.One of the standout features of Kashiwaya Ryokan is its self-flowing stone bath, a rare sight even in Japan. This bath is fed directly from the spring beneath the floor, with fresh, untouched water emerging naturally from the ground. Guests can experience the soothing sensation of bathing in mineral-rich hot spring water, with fresh "yu-dama" (bubbles of water) rising from the bottom of the tub, offering an authentic and refreshing onsen experience.The culinary experience at Kashiwaya is deeply rooted in the local culture, with the ryokan using only the freshest local ingredients prepared with traditional regional seasonings and cooking methods. Guests can enjoy dishes featuring Fukushima Beef, known for its tender texture and marbling, as well as basashi (horse sashimi), a popular local delicacy. Every meal reflects the essence of the region's flavors, offering a true taste of Fukushima.Beyond the relaxing onsen, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Aizu region. Guests can join guided nature walks led by local experts to discover the area's diverse flora and fauna. Depending on the season, various outdoor activities are also available nearby, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the scenic surroundings.Futamata Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan offers a perfect blend of relaxation, regional flavors, and outdoor exploration, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the warmth of the onsen and the beauty of the Aizu region.
Located in Yanaizu Town, the gateway to the Oku-Aizu area, Seryu no Yado Kawachi is situated in a region rich in history. Yanaizu has long been known as the temple town of Fukuman Kokuzo Enzoji Temple, which boasts a history of over 1,200 years. The town is also renowned for its abundant hot springs, attracting visitors throughout the year.The ryokan is positioned alongside the gently flowing Tadami River, offering guests stunning views of both the river and the iconic red bridge from their room windows. The changing scenery of Oku-Aizu throughout the seasons provides a unique experience year-round.The hot spring water, sourced from Enzoji Temple in Yanaizu, is known for its soothing properties, leaving skin soft and retaining warmth, allowing for deep relaxation of both body and mind.Seryu no Yado Kawachi also offers seasonal activity tours, providing guests with the opportunity to enhance their stay with memorable experiences.
A hot spring resort hotel named after Shosuke Ohara, a character in an old folk song, Takinoyu is located right next to Fushimigataki Waterfall, a major scenic spot in Aizu. You can enjoy a splendid view of the waterfall from the main baths and open-air bath. Other baths available for private use also boast marvellous views. Every night, different entertainment is available for guests, such as storytelling, Aizu shamisen (3-stringed instrument) playing, dances from local geigi (geisha) and others, are performed on stage. The combination of the lit-up stage, waterfall, and bamboo groves will invite you into a world of subtle and profound enchantment.
Located in the historic Nanokamachi district of Aizu-Wakamatsu, Ryori Ryokan Tagoto has been a cherished stop for travelers for nearly 100 years. Originally a traditional lodging along the old Echigo, Yonezawa, and Shimotsuke (Nikko) highways, the inn still retains a "Resting Stone" at its entrance—a spot where weary travelers once paused, offering a glimpse into the past.Tagoto is renowned for its seasonal kaiseki cuisine, made with the finest ingredients from Aizu, as well as its signature "Wappa-Meshi" rice dish. These meals are popular among locals, visitors from afar, and even famous personalities.Guests are welcomed with warm hospitality, enjoying exquisite dishes in the refined atmosphere of this historic ryokan.