Overview
At the foot of the mountains in Kaminoyama, Azumaya Inn offers you a stay rooted in health, comfort, and connection. For centuries, people have come to this historic hot spring town to soak in mineral-rich waters that warm the body and nourish the skin. Azumaya Inn continues that tradition while adding something more—local ingredients in every meal, family-friendly hospitality, and spaces that invite you to slow down and simply relax. Whether you’re here for nature, food, or wellness, this is your place to unwind.
Accommodation
Azumaya Inn features two wings—Beni no Yakata and Miyabi no Yakata—each offering traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring. You can stay as a family, couple, or solo traveler.
Gekkei (Room 502): A spacious combination room with 12.5 tatami mats and an additional 4.5-mat area, ideal for groups of 2 to 6.
Tsuki (Room 505): A 12.5-tatami mat room in Miyabi Kan, perfect for a cozy night under the full moon.
Gekka Bijin (Room 523): Located in Beni Kan, this 10-tatami mat room is especially popular with women.
Yuki Geshou (Room 621): Another 10-tatami mat room in Beni Kan, offering a beautiful setting during snow season.
If you’re visiting for business or with a partner, you can also choose single or twin rooms. The layout and design help you feel at home, no matter how long you stay.
Dining
Azumaya Inn offers one of the most health-conscious culinary experiences in Tohoku. Every meal reflects the flavors of Yamagata, from mountain vegetables and local fruit to famous Yamagata beef and high-quality rice.
Azumaya’s Six Commitments
- Yamagata Beef: Served in sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and other classic styles.
- Fresh Vegetables: Grown with the clean water of Mount Nishi Zao.
- Local Fruits: Cherries, pears, apples, and melons—all freshly picked.
- Dietary Support: Meals available for allergies, vegetarians, and low-calorie diets.
- Tsuya Hime Rice: Known for its sparkle and sweetness, this premium rice elevates every meal.
- Blackcurrant Toppings: Rich in polyphenols, used in desserts for skin health and eye care.
Course Menus
- Shun Ka no Minori: A standard course featuring locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
- Ho Ka no Minori: A chef-recommended course that introduces the heart of Yamagata’s culinary culture.
- Sai Ka no Minori: A premium menu with exclusive ingredients native to the region.
- Kenbi no Megumi: A vegan course crafted from Azumaya’s original vegetarian recipes.
- Houjun no Megumi: A health-focused course designed by a chef certified in medicinal cooking. It’s also the only course in Tohoku to include fermented germinated brown rice, known for its fiber and GABA content.
Breakfast Buffet: Start your day with a diverse buffet of 40+ dishes. Sample Yamagata’s imoni stew, konnyaku, and dashi-topped rice. The buffet also features wild vegetables, mushrooms, and mountain delicacies.
Onsen and Wellness
Azumaya Inn’s hot springs have a 560-year history, offering mineral-rich water that helps retain warmth and improve skin health. The baths are designed to connect you to the scenery and seasons.
Soyokaze: An outdoor bath where gentle wind brushes across your skin as you gaze over mountain vistas and the changing townscape.
Kei Shiki no Yu: Located on the 7th floor, this large public bath offers panoramic views of Kaminoyama’s four seasons. Open the door, and the mountain landscape greets you instantly.
Both baths use natural, healthy water with a reputation for improving circulation, soothing joint pain, and relieving stress-related symptoms.
Guests with Tattoos: There is no stated policy on tattoos. If you’re concerned about access to the public baths, consider reaching out directly to confirm before your visit.
Facilities
Lobby and Lounge: The lobby welcomes you with open space for conversations or quiet reflection. Spend the day chatting with friends, then enjoy nighttime illuminations from the lounge.
Shop: Browse a mix of classic Yamagata souvenirs and exclusive Azumaya Inn goods.
Banquet and Conference Rooms: You can reserve banquet halls for gatherings of 30 to 180 people. The conference room is also available for both business use and community events.
Club Room: Enjoy karaoke and entertainment in a lively space designed for nighttime fun.
Activities and Model Courses
Azumaya Inn provides recommended travel plans to help you explore the area:
- Zao Winter Sports Course: Ski or snowboard at Zao, then soak in its famous hot springs.
- Mt. Haguro “Power Spot” Course: Discover this spiritual mountain retreat known for its historical connection to ascetic monks.
- Yamadera Course: Follow the steps once walked by haiku poet Basho Matsuo, then enjoy seasonal Yamagata cuisine nearby.
- Kaminoyama Exploration Course: Walk through a mix of old and new Kaminoyama, tasting, viewing, and experiencing its rich culture.
Access
From Tokyo Station, you can reach Kaminoyama Onsen Station in about 2.5 hours via the Yamagata Shinkansen. Once you arrive, it’s a short ride to Azumaya Inn, where your Yamagata experience begins.
