Overview
Escape to a peaceful valley in the heart of Fukushima at Aizu Ashinomaki Hot Spring Resort Hotel Ookawaso. Surrounded by the mountains and the clear waters of the Ookawa River, this traditional ryokan invites you to unwind in nature across all four seasons—vibrant greenery in spring, flowing rivers in summer, red and gold leaves in autumn, and serene snowfall in winter.
You’ll find true comfort in the warm hospitality, spacious rooms, and one-of-a-kind open-air baths designed to bring you closer to the landscape. Whether you’re visiting for relaxation, celebration, or exploration, this ryokan offers a uniquely Aizu experience.
Accommodation
Choose from two wings: Yoimachitei, with a modern design and river views, or Tsukimitei, where tradition is preserved in every detail. Both offer a full range of Japanese and Western-style rooms, from minimalist twin layouts to sprawling VIP suites. Every room includes a private bath, washlet toilet, Wi-Fi, and a non-smoking environment.
VIP Room – Kihinshi
This spacious suite combines Japanese and Western comfort with multiple rooms and a peaceful view.
VIP Twin Room (Barrier-Free)
A modern room designed for accessibility, comfort, and convenience.
Comfort and DX Twin Rooms
Relax in sleek, contemporary spaces built for two, with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Yoimachitei Special Rooms
Enjoy the Kirinoma with a private bath and view, or unwind in the Aizu Momen no Ma, complete with a sunken footwarmer and traditional fabrics.
Yoimachitei Suites and Standard Rooms
Stretch out in suites with two tatami rooms or settle into a standard Japanese-style room with classic ambiance and river views.
Tsukimitei Suites and Standard Rooms
These rooms bring together the charm of old Japan with added space, ideal for larger groups or families.
Dining
Dinner at Ookawaso features traditional kaiseki cuisine, where each dish reflects the current season. Prepared with care and presented with elegance, your meal includes several courses using regional ingredients. You can enjoy dinner in one of the ryokan’s party rooms or private dining areas, where every detail enhances the experience.
In the morning, a Japanese-style breakfast rounds out your stay with local flavors and a satisfying start to the day.
Onsen and Wellness
Soak in the ryokan’s famous outdoor baths while gazing out over the valley. The signature bath, Shiki Butai Tanada, mimics terraced rice fields with layered pools. Another standout, the Kuchu Roten Buro, offers dramatic views of the river below.
Each bath is built to blend with nature. Whether you’re enjoying a summer breeze or snowflakes drifting through steam, you’ll feel completely at ease.
The hot spring water helps relieve fatigue, muscle aches, and other daily stressors, while the scenery works its quiet magic.
Guests with Tattoos
If you have tattoos, contact the ryokan in advance to confirm access to the baths. Private bath options may be available.
Facilities
- Shiki Butai Tanada: Multi-level open-air bath with mountain views
- Kuchu Roten Buro: Outdoor bath overlooking the Ookawa River
- Event Spaces: Host your own dining experience or gathering
- Shamisen Performances: Enjoy traditional Japanese music live every day from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Mochitsuki Events: Join in the fun of pounding rice cakes (starting at 8:30 PM), followed by tasting mochi with kinako (soybean flour)
Activities
Beyond the onsen, Ookawaso offers hands-on cultural experiences. Don’t miss the evening shamisen performance or the mochi-pounding show, which adds an authentic and festive touch to your stay.
Sightseeing
The ryokan makes a great base for exploring the rich history and natural wonders of Aizu:
- Tsuruga Castle: A symbol of Aizuwakamatsu, especially popular during cherry blossom season.
- Ouchi-juku: Step back to the Edo era in this historic mountain village just 20 minutes away by car.
- Tou no Hetsuri: A dramatic gorge shaped by wind and water over millions of years.
Additional Features
- Check-in: From 3:00 PM
- Check-out: By 10:00 AM
- Wi-Fi: Free in all rooms
- Accessibility: Barrier-free rooms available
- Languages: Japanese; limited English assistance available
Access
The hotel is just 10 minutes by bus from Ashinomaki Onsen Station.
- From Tokyo: About 3 hours by Tohoku Shinkansen
- From Asakusa: About 3.5 hours via Tobu and Aizu Railways
Ookawaso makes it easy to step out of the city and into a slower, richer rhythm of life. Whether you’re here for the onsen, the food, or the scenery, you’ll find that everything flows a little more gently in Aizu.
