Mogamiya Ryokan

This traditional Japanese inn offers a truly authentic experience, with its historic wooden architecture and a unique iron-rich hot spring that many guests praise for its therapeutic properties. Its signature feature is the distinctive brownish, mineral-laden water, often referred to as a "medicinal bath," which provides a deeply warming and healing soak. The serene, almost nostalgic atmosphere makes it an ideal retreat for onsen enthusiasts and couples seeking a quiet escape from city life. Families can also enjoy the traditional setting, though some aspects require adaptability. To enhance your stay, consider booking meals at the inn, as dining options nearby are limited, and be prepared for a charmingly rustic environment that prioritizes tradition over modern conveniences.

Facilities & Amenities
The inn features a unique, maze-like layout with wooden corridors that add to its historic charm, though some guests noted they can be cold. The primary attraction is the hot spring bath, which is praised for its distinctive brownish, iron-rich water and comfortable temperature, allowing for long, relaxing soaks. While the baths are not large and typically indoor-only, they offer a deeply authentic experience. Guests appreciate the availability of Wi-Fi to stay connected. Some rooms are equipped with supplemental kerosene heaters to combat the cold, especially in unheated common areas. A small souvenir shop is available, and a laundry facility is provided for guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, despite the building's age. The traditional Japanese-style rooms feature comfortable futons that ensure a restful sleep. While the inn retains its historic charm, some guests noted that the air conditioning units might not be strong enough to heat rooms to modern standards, requiring the use of supplemental heaters. The hallways can be quite cold, and due to the wooden structure, noise levels from adjacent rooms or corridors can occasionally be noticeable. Some rooms do not have private toilets, and the sink in the room may only provide cold water, reflecting the inn's traditional nature.

Dining & Food Quality
The inn offers traditional Japanese meals, with both dinner and breakfast served in private dining rooms, allowing for a relaxed and intimate experience. Most guests praise the food quality, describing it as delicious, homemade, and featuring local ingredients, including highly-rated rice and dishes like ox tongue. The portions are generally considered generous and filling. However, some guests noted that certain dishes, such as tempura or chawanmushi, were served cold, and the rice from the rice cooker could also be cool. While the overall dining experience is positive, a few guests found the drink options to be limited or expensive.

Location & Accessibility
The inn is situated in Kamasaki Onsen, a quiet mountain setting that offers a peaceful retreat. Its secluded location is a significant draw for those seeking tranquility. It is conveniently located near the Zao Fox Village, accessible by a short bus or taxi ride. For guests arriving by train, the inn is a taxi ride away from Shiroishi Station, typically around 3000 yen, as bus services are limited. A shared parking area is available for guests arriving by car, though it may be a short walk from the inn itself. The area provides a sense of being in a different world, despite being relatively accessible.

Staff & Service
The staff at the inn consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their accommodating nature, noting instances where staff went out of their way to assist, such as helping with taxi bookings or offering rides to the station. The check-in process is described as smooth, and the overall service contributes significantly to a positive guest experience. Some staff members are able to communicate in English, which is appreciated by international visitors. The dedication of the staff to providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere is a recurring theme in reviews.

Additional Information
This inn is a proud member of the Secret Hot Spring Protection Society, emphasizing its commitment to preserving traditional hot spring culture. The hot spring water is renowned for its therapeutic properties, often referred to as a "medicinal bath" beneficial for recovery and injuries. Day-use onsen access is available, though hours and pricing may vary, particularly on weekends. Guests should be aware that some rooms do not include private toilets, and shared facilities are used. The inn's historic wooden structure means that creaky floors and some sound transfer between rooms are part of the authentic experience.