As I wandered into this well-rated business hotel near Sendai, I found exactly what savvy travelers need – a reliable, no-nonsense place to rest your head. The rooms, while snug by Western standards, come equipped with all the essentials: comfy beds, spotless bathrooms (complete with those famous Japanese high-tech toilets), and reliable air conditioning.
The real gems here are the soothing hot spring baths and two on-site restaurants serving decent Japanese fare. A hearty free breakfast and complimentary parking sweeten the deal. At just over 3 miles from Shiogama Shrine and a manageable 16-mile hop from Sendai Airport, you’re well-positioned for exploring.
Now, the drawbacks: The location, while practical, lacks that magical Japanese atmosphere you might be dreaming of. And if you’re hoping for expansive rooms with picture windows, you’ll need to adjust your expectations – these are typical compact Japanese business hotel quarters.
This place is perfect for practical travelers who want a reliable, clean base with good amenities at a fair price. It’s especially well-suited for those renting a car to explore Miyagi Prefecture or business travelers who appreciate efficiency over frills. If you’re counting yen but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, you’ll feel right at home here.
Good To Know

- Highly-rated 8.6/10 hotel located 3.4 miles from Shiogama Shrine and 16 miles from Sendai Airport, offering free WiFi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms.
- Provides amenities like two on-site restaurants, a hot spring bath, and a 24-hour front desk, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
- Rooms equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and fridges, along with private bathrooms featuring bidets and showers.
- Offers a complimentary breakfast buffet featuring Japanese and Western cuisine, as well as an additional on-site restaurant for further dining options.
- Conveniently located with free on-site parking, close proximity to public transportation, and a shuttle service available for an additional charge.
Hotel Overview

The Hotel Route Inn Rifu is a well-rated accommodation located in Rifu, Miyagi, Japan. Rated 8.6 out of 10 based on 73 reviews, this hotel is part of the Route Inn chain.
It’s situated just 3.4 miles from Shiogama Shrine and 8.6 miles from Sendai City Community Support Center, with Sendai Airport 16 miles away.
The hotel offers amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, fridges, and private bathrooms with bidets. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, parking, two on-site restaurants, a hot spring bath, and a public bath.
Additional services include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and laundry facilities.
Accommodation Amenities

With a range of modern amenities, Hotel Route Inn Rifu provides guests with a comfortable and convenient stay. The rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, fridges, electric kettles, bidets, and private bathrooms with showers. Guests can also enjoy free WiFi and parking, as well as access to the hotel’s two on-site restaurants and hot spring bath.
| Room Features | Common Facilities |
|---|---|
| Air conditioning | Free WiFi |
| Flat-screen TV | Free parking |
| Fridge | 2 on-site restaurants |
| Electric kettle | Hot spring bath |
The hotel also offers additional services, including a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, daily housekeeping, and laundry facilities.
Dining and Cuisine

Dining at Hotel Route Inn Rifu centers around the hotel’s two on-site restaurants.
The hotel’s main restaurant, Restaurant NAGOMI, serves a buffet breakfast and dinner, offering guests a variety of Japanese and Western cuisine options.
The hotel also features an additional restaurant on-site, providing guests with further dining choices.
The dining experience at Hotel Route Inn Rifu includes:
- Buffet breakfast with a wide selection of dishes
- Japanese and Western dinner options at Restaurant NAGOMI
- Additional on-site restaurant for more dining variety
- Complimentary breakfast included for all overnight guests
- Ample seating and comfortable dining atmosphere
Facility Highlights
Hotel Route Inn Rifu boasts several noteworthy facilities that enhance the guest experience.
The hotel offers free WiFi and free parking, ensuring convenience for visitors.
Two on-site restaurants, including the breakfast and dinner serving Restaurant NAGOMI, provide dining options.
Guests can also enjoy the relaxing hot spring bath and public bath on the premises.
Plus, the hotel features a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, daily housekeeping, and laundry services for added convenience.
The hotel’s amenities cater to the needs of both leisure and business travelers, making it an appealing choice for those visiting the Rifu area.
Transportation and Accessibility

The hotel’s location makes it easily accessible for guests.
It’s situated just 3.4 miles from the Shiogama Shrine and 8.6 miles from the Sendai City Community Support Center. Plus, the hotel is only 16 miles from the Sendai Airport, providing convenient transportation options for travelers.
Guests can take advantage of the following accessibility features:
- Free on-site parking for those arriving by car
- Close proximity to public transportation, including buses and trains
- Shuttle service available (additional charge)
- Easy walking distance to local restaurants and shops
- Assistance with luggage available at the 24-hour front desk
Guest Feedback Summary

Guests lauded the hotel for its cleanliness, comfort, and well-appointed facilities. Reviews noted the hotel’s exceptional 9.3 cleanliness rating and 9.4 comfort score.
Visitors particularly appreciated the spacious hot spring bath and the variety in the buffet breakfast options. The staff’s service quality also impressed guests, earning an 8.8 rating.
While the hotel’s proximity to local restaurants was a highlight, some guests noted the lack of cribs or extra beds for families.
Policies and Regulations
Check-in time at the hotel begins at 3:00 PM, and guests must vacate their rooms by 10:00 AM on the day of check-out.
All ages are welcome, but cribs and extra beds aren’t available.
Pets aren’t allowed, and the hotel doesn’t permit parties or similar gatherings.
Policies for bookings of more than five rooms differ from the standard rules.
- Check-in: From 3:00 PM
- Check-out: Until 10:00 AM
- Child Policy: All ages welcome, no cribs or extra beds available
- Pets: Not allowed
- Groups: Different policies for booking more than 5 rooms
Nearby Attractions

Situated just 3.4 miles from the iconic Shiogama Shrine, Hotel Route Inn Rifu offers guests convenient access to one of the region’s most renowned religious landmarks.
Visitors can explore the shrine’s stunning architecture, rich history, and serene gardens.
The hotel also sits 8.6 miles from the Sendai City Community Support Center, providing easy access to cultural and community resources.
For those arriving by air, the property is located just 16 miles from Sendai Airport, making it an ideal stopover.
With its prime location and excellent amenities, Hotel Route Inn Rifu provides an ideal base for exploring the natural and cultural treasures of the Miyagi prefecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Payments With a Credit Card?
Yes, guests can make payments with a credit card at Hotel Route Inn Rifu. The hotel accepts major credit cards as a convenient payment option for their accommodations and services.
Do You Provide Currency Exchange Services?
The hotel doesn’t offer currency exchange services. Guests can exchange currency at local banks or designated exchange offices in the area. The hotel primarily accepts credit card payments for guest stays and other services.
Is There a Business Center or Meeting Facilities?
The hotel doesn’t have a dedicated business center, but it offers meeting facilities like a conference room that guests can use for small gatherings or meetings. Additional services like fax and photocopying are available for a fee.
Can I Store My Luggage Before Check-In?
Yes, the hotel offers luggage storage for guests before check-in. Guests can leave their bags with the 24-hour front desk and retrieve them when they’re ready to check into their room.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Packages?
The hotel offers a variety of packages and discounts, including early bird and extended stay deals. Guests should inquire at the front desk or check the hotel’s website for the latest offers and promotions.
The Sum Up
The Hotel Route Inn Rifu offers a convenient and well-equipped stay for travelers exploring the Miyagi prefecture. With its prime location near key attractions, modern amenities, and positive guest feedback, this hotel provides a comfortable and rejuvenating base for visitors. Whether for leisure or business, the Hotel Route Inn Rifu is a reliable choice that’s sure to meet the needs of its guests.
