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.
| Website | https://kashiwayaryokan.com/(Japanese) |
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| Contact | 0248-84-2316 |
| Accommodation details | Capacity: 6 rooms, Japanese style Check in / Check out: 15:00 / 10:00 Hot springs: Open-air sulfate mineral hot spring (Available for private bookings) |
| Related info | Kids room Coworking space Elevator Room service Vending machines Smoking area |
| Access | Shimofutamata-22-6 Yumoto, Tenei, Iwase District, Fukushima 962-0621 View directions |
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| Getting there | By Car:
By Train:
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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.
The Tradition of Aizu lacquerware in Fukushima Prefecture has continued for 400 years. Try out creating a design on Aizu Lacquerware with a technique called Chinkin ("Sunken-gold") at Tsunoda Lacquer Art Studio. Sketch your design on tracing paper, and then mark it onto the lacqerware with a needle. Tsunoda san will help you fill the grooves created by your needle with gold and silver powder to create your design. Alternatively, try painting your own design on Aizu lacquerware at the studio. Either experience will create a great souvenir of your trip in Japan. These experiences take about an hour.
Local farmers and agricultural associations offer a variety of authentic agricultural experiences, and are all waiting to provide you an unforgettable experience with a range of activities tailored for families, friends, schools, and company outings. Visitors can join farmers for a one-day farm experience, while taking in the beautiful nature of the Aizu region.
The Mitsuishi Shrine (Three Stones Shrine) is located a short 10-minute walk from Tadami Station in Tadami Town. Ichinoiwa, Ninoiwa and Saniwa are the three large stones that have spritual significance. Ichinoiwa (the first stone) is thought to improve intelligence, Ninoiwa (the second stone) is thought to improve eyesight, and Saniwa (the third stone) is thought to improve connections with others, particularly romantic love. The Saniwa is a popular place to visit for those who are hoping to get married someday. To reach the shrine there is a short hike through dense forest, so it is recommended that visitors wear shoes that are easy to walk in.
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.
Among hot springs, this inn is rare for possessing their own spring source. You’ll enjoy the luxurious open-air baths to the fullest. They’re 100% “kakenagashi” (continuously flowing), which is the highest quality of hot spring water in Japan. Whether it’s spring, summer, or fall, you’ll love the natural beauty of the area with open-air waterside dining. If you’re looking for a delightful private hot spring bath, they have four separate reservable baths with a view. Harataki also boasts an open-air bath filled with water from its very own hot spring source.The dinner is another popular attraction: you can enjoy both Otemae-ryori, a traditional Japanese course meal served at the table, as well as a buffet with rice cooked on a traditional kamado kitchen stove, charcoal-grilled dishes, and the local specialties of Aizu. Meals served at the Waterside Dining Kawadoko (a restaurant with outdoor decks built along the bank of the Yukawa River) are very popular during the summer season.Make the most of your time unwinding and soak away your worries.
Ashina is a Japanese-style inn that preserves an atmosphere of old-style living in the Tohoku Region. The facility used to be part of a 120-year-old private residence, which was taken apart, moved and then rebuilt at its present location. An overnight stay at this inn will allow guests to experience several different aspects of traditional Aizu culture, including local cuisine and local sake that can be enjoyed nowhere else. Dinner is served around an irori (sunken hearth), which is a very memorable feature of this inn.
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.