Overview

Step into the deep history and natural beauty of Iwate at Aishinkan, a long-loved ryokan located in the peaceful Tsunagi Onsen area of Morioka. Set against the backdrop of Lake Gosho and Mount Iwate, Aishinkan blends the charm of local tradition with spacious baths, warm hospitality, and diverse dining. Whether you’re relaxing in a bath inspired by ancient Jomon ruins or enjoying a hearty meal featuring regional ingredients, Aishinkan invites you to slow down and connect with the spirit of northern Japan.

Accommodation

Aishinkan offers a wide range of rooms spread across the Main Building and Annex. All rooms provide a relaxing Japanese atmosphere, with tatami floors and futons, while some feature updated designs with a modern twist.

Annex Rooms:

• Japanese Twin Rooms (Modern Style): Renovated in 2022, these rooms include Ryukyu tatami flooring and Simmons beds for maximum comfort. Located on the upper floors facing the lake, they are ideal for couples or small groups.
• Japanese Rooms (Modern Style): These 10-tatami rooms were refreshed in 2023 and offer both space and comfort, with futons prepared before your arrival for up to five people.
• Traditional Japanese Rooms: These classic 10-tatami rooms are found on the lower floors and accommodate up to five people, perfect for families or groups.
• Special Suite (11th Floor): This spacious suite includes a 12.5-tatami room, twin beds, a 7.5-tatami space, and a connecting twin room. Ideal for extended stays or larger groups of up to six people.

Main Building Rooms:

These rooms range from 8 to 12 tatami in size and can host up to six people. Located on the mountain side, they are great for those seeking traditional comfort at a great value.

Every room includes air conditioning, a unit bath, a washlet toilet, a TV with satellite channels, and a refrigerator. You’ll also find yukata available in multiple sizes near the elevator on each floor.

Dining

At Aishinkan, dinner is a highlight. You can choose from three dinner options, each reflecting the best of Iwate’s local cuisine:

• Dinner Buffet: This seasonal buffet includes dishes made with fresh seafood from the Sanriku coast, local vegetables, and Iwate’s signature rice and meats. It’s a fun and flexible way to try many flavors.
• Morioka Reimen & Yakiniku at Kurohige: Produced by the well-known local restaurant “Hige,” this dinner features premium grilled meats and authentic Morioka cold noodles. The set includes appetizers, grilled Iwate beef and pork, half-size reimen or small bibimbap, kimchi, salad, and dessert.
• Traditional Kaiseki: If you prefer a more formal dining style, enjoy a Japanese multi-course meal that changes with the seasons. Served in the dining hall, these meals highlight the richness of Iwate’s mountain and sea.

Breakfast is a Japanese-Western buffet featuring local specialties. Savor freshly steamed rice, local miso soup, handmade tofu, and milk from the nearby Koiwai farm.

Onsen and Wellness

The baths at Aishinkan offer you a unique experience—both culturally and physically rejuvenating. The water is a high-alkaline sulfur spring, with a silky texture that leaves your skin smooth and soft.

Garden Jomon Bath:

• Stone Circle Outdoor Bath: A terraced bath designed around ancient Jomon ruins.
• Komorebi-no-Yu: Bathe under sunlight or starlight in this open-air tub.
• Shidanai Indoor Bath: A high-ceilinged, rustic bath connected to Komorebi-no-Yu.

Nurisawa Baths:

• Tateana Bath: A standing bath over 120 cm deep, themed after ancient pit dwellings.
• Yumemakura Bath: A peaceful bath with log-style pillows featured in a popular local TV drama.
• Nurizawa Indoor Bath: Built with large timber beams for a warm, natural feel.

Large Public Baths:

• Magokoro-no-Yu: Includes multiple styles like a bubbling bath, cypress bath, and sauna.
• Ai-no-Yu: Includes unique options like panda- and kappa-themed pottery baths and a carbon sauna using Iwate charcoal.

The gender of each area rotates daily. All baths are open from 5:00 to 1:00 a.m., with saunas running from 7:00 to 21:00.

Guests with Tattoos

If you have tattoos, you can enjoy the baths at Aishinkan. To avoid potential discomfort, please ask the front desk for guidance on private use times or less busy periods.

Facilities

Aishinkan has everything you need for a smooth and relaxing stay:

• Dining: Multiple restaurants and banquet halls
• Shop: Local souvenirs and daily essentials
• Karaoke Room: Sing and relax after dinner
• Massage Room: Available by reservation, offering full-body and foot massages
• Family Services: High chairs, baby baths, and changing facilities
• Accessibility: Wheelchair rental, shower booths with partitions, and slopes at entrances

You can also take part in the Miso Soup Morning Project, a collaboration with nearby ryokans to serve handmade miso soups in matching aprons and curtains.

Activities

During summer, don’t miss the local Morioka Sansa Odori Festival, which features thousands of dancers parading through the streets. Aishinkan offers packages tied to this event, along with free shuttle service to Koiwai Farm—perfect for a fun, nature-filled day with children.

If you’re staying longer, plan a two-night journey to enjoy all of Morioka’s famous noodles: try wanko soba for lunch on day one, reimen at Kurohige for dinner, and finish with jajamen on day two.

Additional Features

• Free Wi-Fi in guest rooms and common areas
• Day-use plans with private room options
• Shuttle service to nearby attractions
• Special dinner packages with local flavors
• Barrier-free room features and equipment rentals
• Morning buffet with local produce and dairy