Overview

For over 300 years, The Bankokuya has carried on a legacy of hospitality in the heart of Atsumi Hot Spring in Yamagata Prefecture. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and sea, this historic inn continues to welcome travelers with the same spirit that once drew poets and artists like Matsuo Basho and Yosano Akiko.

The ryokan has been ranked among Japan’s “Top 100 Hotels and Ryokan Selected by Professionals” for 40 consecutive years. During your stay, you’ll experience the full charm of Atsumi—from its free-flowing hot springs to the seasonal cuisine prepared with ingredients from Shonai’s sea, mountains, and farms.

Accommodation

The Bankokuya offers a wide range of accommodations, from Japanese-style rooms to luxurious suites with private open-air baths. Each room provides a space to rest deeply and reconnect with nature.

On the top floor, the Royal Suite and Premium Suite include open-air baths with natural hot spring water and enough space for large groups. The Junior Suite offers a hinoki cypress indoor bath and space for smaller parties.

Every room includes free Wi-Fi, a refrigerator, television, electric kettle, bidet toilet, and a full range of amenities—from skin lotion to toothbrushes and tabi socks. All rooms are non-smoking.

Dining

Meals at The Bankokuya highlight the best seasonal flavors of Yamagata. The kitchen combines mountain vegetables, fresh-caught seafood, and branded meats like Yamagata beef into carefully crafted kaiseki courses.

Dinner features dishes such as abalone, snow crab, and red sea bream served on elegant trays that celebrate the region’s traditions. You can also enjoy the hot spring-steamed Yamagata beef, a regional specialty.

In the morning, choose from three styles of breakfast, including the popular sea bream rice bowl. Breakfast includes freshly cooked Tsuyahime rice, locally sourced side dishes, and hot drinks served in a peaceful dining room.

If you have food allergies, the kitchen can remove the seven major allergens (egg, shrimp, crab, soba, dairy, peanuts, and wheat) from your meals. Please inform the staff at the time of booking.

Onsen and Wellness

Atsumi Hot Spring has healed travelers for more than a thousand years. At The Bankokuya, you can enjoy four large communal baths, each offering a unique way to relax.

Garden Sakura no Yu: Soak in a rock-lined open-air bath surrounded by seasonal views and breathe deeply in the barrel sauna. (Women: 2:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. / Men: 5:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.)

Garden Sato no Yu: Enjoy the scent of rain or snow while you unwind in this outdoor hot spring. (Men: 2:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. / Women: 5:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.)

Rakusan Bath: Bathe in soft microbubbles that cleanse and refresh your skin.

Rakusui Bath: A spacious, warm pool where you can even swim. It’s especially popular for families.

All hot springs use 100% natural, free-flowing water drawn from the source. The soothing temperature and mineral content provide warmth that lasts and leaves your skin feeling soft.

Guests with Tattoos

There are no restrictions regarding tattoos mentioned, but it’s best to contact the ryokan before your visit for the latest bathing guidelines.

Facilities

The Bankokuya preserves the charm of traditional Japanese inns while offering modern comforts. As you walk through the property, you’ll notice seasonal flowers, historical touches, and quiet corners for rest.

Key facilities include:

• 127 rooms
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
• Check-in from 3:00 p.m. (latest check-in at 7:00 p.m.)
• Check-out by 10:00 a.m.
• Shuttle service (reservation required)
• Courier and wake-up services
• Yukata rental
• Barrier-free environment

If you need something during your stay, the front desk offers everything from nail clippers and thermometers to baby chairs, humidifiers, and board games.

Activities

Atsumi is surrounded by the natural beauty of Shonai. You can explore forested trails, riverside paths, and quiet coastlines, or visit historic and cultural spots nearby. The staff at The Bankokuya can help you find the best sights for each season, including local festivals, traditional crafts, and scenic viewpoints.

After a day of exploring, return to the ryokan for a foot bath, a leisurely soak, or an evening drink in your room.

Additional Features

• Free shuttle from Atsumi Onsen Station (reservation required, matched to limited express train arrivals)
• Credit card and contactless payment options available
• Breakfast served in multiple styles
• Allergy-friendly menu available upon request
• On-site rental items for comfort and convenience
• Historical interior with seasonal décor
• Comfortable lounges and gardens for relaxation