Overview

Step into a purely Japanese-style inn that faces a lake known for changing colors seven times a day. For over a century, since its founding in 1896, Lakeside Inn Morimoto has welcomed travelers seeking calm and comfort. You can gaze out at Shibayamagata Lake and see the majestic Hakusan Mountain rising in the distance—one of Japan’s three sacred peaks.

The colors of the lake shift with the time of day and the seasons, offering a gentle, natural rhythm that helps you slow down and breathe more deeply. Every moment here carries the spirit of timeless hospitality—rooted in tradition, yet designed for a comfortable stay today.

Accommodation

You can choose from three room styles: Shisuikan, Kanun, and rooms in the Main Building, each offering unique views and details.

Shisuikan Rooms give you panoramic views of Shibayamagata Lake and the Hakusan Mountain Range. Some corner rooms let you feel as if you have the entire lake to yourself. The rooms are decorated with seasonal flowers and traditional hand towels to reflect the time of year.

Kanun Rooms feature private rock baths fed directly from the hot spring source. These rooms offer a quiet retreat where you can soak in natural hot water in the privacy of your own space.

Lake View Basic Rooms give you a beautiful look at the water and sunset. On the lower floors, the lake view stretches beyond the nearby park. Each room includes traditional touches like sweets, tea, and seasonal décor.

All rooms include a bath, washlet toilet, TV, tea set, safe, and other essentials like towels, yukata, hand soap, and lotions. You can select your preferred yukata when you check in at the front desk.

Dining

At Morimoto, the heart of each evening is a meal crafted with care and intention. The head chef, Munenori Yamamoto, prepares each dish using seasonal ingredients from the sea, mountains, and local farms. Whether you’re savoring cherry blossom sea bream in spring, abalone in summer, or snow crab in winter, every course reflects the flavors of Hokuriku.

Dinner includes multiple courses, beautifully presented and balanced in taste. The final dish is often the inn’s signature—Noto beef or Nodoguro fish claypot rice, served piping hot and rich with aroma. Even if you think you’re full, you’ll find yourself reaching for one more bite.

In winter, you can enjoy a special snow crab kaiseki, available only between November and March. You can request different preparations like grilled, steamed, or sashimi. The kitchen staff carefully adjusts each meal to reflect what’s fresh and in season.

If you have allergies or food restrictions, inform the inn at least three days before your arrival. The kitchen will do its best to accommodate your needs while ensuring your safety.

Breakfast is served in a peaceful dining room with large windows overlooking the lake. Your meal includes a traditional Japanese set featuring seasonal fish, vegetables, hot spring eggs, and miso soup served in individual pots to keep it warm until the last sip.

Onsen and Wellness

Relax in the inn’s hot spring baths while gazing at the changing colors of Shibayamagata Lake. Whether you’re visiting in summer and watching fireworks over the water or soaking in winter while snowflakes fall, the experience stays with you.

The public bath areas include indoor and open-air spaces for both men and women. These are filled with natural hot spring water drawn directly from the source. The spring’s high salt content and warmth help ease cold sensitivity and muscle tension.

Open-air Baths: Let you enjoy lake views from morning to night.

Private Baths: You can reserve “Lake no Yu” for two people or “Kutani no Yu” for four. Each offers a quiet setting with a courtyard view and comes fully stocked with towels and bath amenities.

Cleaning and disinfection times are scheduled daily. Be sure to bring your own towels from your room when using the public bath. The private baths come with fresh towels provided.

Facilities

Dining Room: Offers views of the lake during breakfast and dinner.

Lobby and Common Areas: Decorated with wildflowers and traditional elements that reflect the local spirit of hospitality.

Souvenir Shop: Browse local specialties to take home a piece of Hokuriku.

Private Bath Reservations: Available at the front desk upon arrival.

Shampoo Bar: Choose your favorite hair care products in the public bath, including options for babies and sensitive skin.

Activities

Take a slow walk around the lake, enjoy the scenery from Ukimido, or explore Katayamazu’s quiet streets. Each season offers its own reason to visit—from spring blossoms to winter snow. Relax, reconnect with yourself, and let the natural rhythm of the lake guide your day.

Additional Features

• Free-flowing natural hot spring water 24 hours a day
• Thoughtful seasonal design and décor
• Three types of guest rooms to match your travel style
• Courteous, attentive staff who reflect the spirit of traditional Japanese inns
• Easy access by train, car, or plane from Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, or Sapporo