Welcome to our review of this hidden gem in Japan’s Iwate region! Tucked away in the Tsuchihatakozan area, this traditional ryokan offers a slice of authentic Japanese life. Soak in hot springs, savor local cuisine, and wake up to a hearty Asian breakfast. The friendly staff and cozy rooms will make you feel right at home.
But let’s be honest – it’s not for everyone. The location is pretty remote, so don’t expect any bustling nightlife or shopping sprees. And if you’re not used to Japanese-style accommodations, the futon beds might take some getting used to.
That said, if you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds and dive deep into Japanese culture, this place is perfect. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Shigarai Ski Area, just a short drive away.
And for those seeking peace and quiet, the serene setting is hard to beat.
In a nutshell, this ryokan is ideal for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience the real Japan beyond the big cities. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure – and maybe a Japanese phrasebook!
Good To Know
- Fulsato is a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) located in Tsuchihatakozan, Iwate, Japan, offering comfortable accommodations and rejuvenating open-air hot spring baths.
- The ryokan features a variety of room types, including suites with open-air baths, and amenities such as free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping.
- Guests praise the exceptional staff, cleanliness, and value for money, with an overall rating of 8.8 "Fabulous" based on 29 reviews.
- Fulsato serves daily Asian breakfast and dinner, accommodating various dietary preferences, and showcasing authentic Japanese cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
- The ryokan’s remote location in Tsuchihatakozan provides a peaceful setting, with easy access to nearby ski areas, train stations, and the Iwate Hanamaki Airport.
Overview and Location
Fulsato is a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, located in Tsuchihatakozan, Iwate, Japan.
It’s situated 16 km from Shigarai Ski Area, 44 km from Kitakami Station, and 51 km from Iwate Hanamaki Airport.
With an impressive 8.8 "Fabulous" rating based on 29 reviews, Fulsato offers free WiFi, free parking, family rooms, and non-smoking accommodations.
Its proximity to popular attractions and high guest ratings suggest Fulsato provides a comfortable and enjoyable ryokan experience for travelers.
Accommodation and Amenities
At Fulsato, guests can choose from a variety of room types, including suites with open-air baths, Japanese-style quadruple rooms, and double rooms with open-air baths.
The ryokan also offers twin rooms with open-air baths and Japanese-style triple rooms with semi open-air baths.
Amenities include a hot spring bath, public bath, and open-air bath.
Guests can enjoy free private parking, daily housekeeping, and in-room features like kettles, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, bed linen, and towels.
Guest Experience and Reviews
According to reviews, guests have rated Fulsato highly, with exceptional scores for staff (9.6) and free WiFi (9.4). Cleanliness (9.0) and comfort (8.7) also earned positive feedback, while value for money (8.4) and location (8.6) were slightly lower.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Staff | 9.6 |
| Cleanliness | 9.0 |
| Comfort | 8.7 |
Guests praised the exceptional Japanese hospitality, including staff assistance with snowboards and car snow clearing. The private hot springs and quality toiletries were also noted positively. Overall, Fulsato appears to deliver a high-quality ryokan experience for its visitors.
Dining and Food Options
Guests enjoy a range of dining options at Fulsato. The ryokan serves an Asian breakfast daily.
For dinner, service is available from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with last orders at 8:00 pm. The kitchen can accommodate dietary preferences, including those with allergies to buckwheat, dairy, and crustaceans.
Meals showcase high-quality local ingredients and authentic Japanese cuisine. Guests consistently praise the food for its exceptional quality and flavor.
Whether dining in-room or in the communal dining area, visitors can expect a memorable culinary experience that complements Fulsato’s reputation for exceptional Japanese hospitality.
Policies and Additional Information
Fulsato has a straightforward check-in and check-out policy. Guests can check-in between 15:00 and 20:00, and check-out between 06:00 and 11:00.
The hotel welcomes children of all ages but doesn’t provide cots or extra beds. Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited throughout the property.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary depending on the accommodation type. Shared taxis are available from the nearest station, but the hotel doesn’t offer a pick-up service.
Directions and Access
To reach Fulsato, shared taxis are available from the nearest station, Hottoyuda Station. The ryokan doesn’t offer a pick-up service, so travelers will need to arrange their own transportation.
The property is located 16 km from Shigarai Ski Area, 44 km from Kitakami Station, and 51 km from Iwate Hanamaki Airport.
With its remote location in the Tsuchihatakozan region of Iwate, Japan, Fulsato provides a peaceful, natural setting for guests looking to experience the country’s traditional hospitality and hot spring facilities.
Travelers should plan their journey accordingly, as the ryokan’s isolated position means it’s not the most easily accessible accommodation option.
Highlights and Unique Offerings
The ryokan’s remote location in the Tsuchihatakozan mountains offers guests a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Highlights of the Fulsato ryokan include:
Authentic Japanese hospitality, with attentive staff dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay
Rejuvenating open-air hot spring baths, allowing guests to soak in natural thermal waters
Delectable regional cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional preparation methods
The ryokan’s thoughtful amenities and focus on traditional Japanese experiences make it a standout destination for those seeking a truly immersive and restorative getaway.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Several popular winter sports destinations lie within close proximity to the Fulsato ryokan. The renowned Shigarai Ski Area is just 16 km away, offering expansive slopes and facilities for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the historic Kitakami Station, located 44 km from Fulsato, provides access to scenic train rides through the picturesque Iwate countryside. Iwate Hanamaki Airport, situated 51 km away, serves as a convenient gateway for travelers arriving from further afield.
| Attraction | Distance | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Shigarai Ski Area | 16 km | Skiing, Snowboarding |
| Kitakami Station | 44 km | Scenic Train Rides |
| Iwate Hanamaki Airport | 51 km | Airport Access |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Spa or Wellness Center On-Site?
The ryokan offers an on-site hot spring bath and open-air bath, providing guests with a relaxing spa experience. The facilities allow visitors to unwind and rejuvenate during their stay.
What Types of Japanese Cultural Activities Are Offered?
The ryokan offers traditional Japanese cultural experiences, such as onsen (hot spring baths), an open-air bath, and daily housekeeping. However, details on specific activities are not provided in the information given.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
The hotel doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts or packages on its website. However, guests should check with the property directly to inquire about any special offers or seasonal rates that may be available.
Can Guests Reserve Private Dining Experiences?
Guests can’t reserve private dining experiences at this ryokan. The property serves breakfast and dinner in common dining areas, and doesn’t offer any private dining options for guests.
Is There a Shuttle Service to Local Attractions?
There’s no shuttle service provided, but guests can take shared taxis to nearby attractions like the Shigarai Ski Area. The ryokan focuses on providing a comfortable stay with amenities like private hot spring baths.
The Sum Up
Fulsato offers a quintessential ryokan experience in Iwate’s picturesque Tsuchihatakozan region. With its rejuvenating hot springs, well-appointed rooms, and exceptional service, the ryokan provides an ideal base for winter sports and serene escapes. Conveniently located near popular attractions, Fulsato’s commitment to authentic Japanese hospitality ensures an unforgettable stay.