Overview
Located in the heart of Morioka, Shikitei at Tsunagi Onsen offers you a quiet retreat steeped in history, tradition, and natural beauty. The ryokan sits near the serene shores of Lake Gosho and welcomes you with hot springs known since the Heian period.
You can savor the flavors of Iwate across every season—fresh seafood from the Sanriku coast, mountain vegetables from the Tohoku wilderness, and rice cultivated in Iwate’s pure air and water. At Shikitei, you’ll find more than comfort. You’ll experience the essence of northern Japan, brought to life with heartfelt hospitality.
Accommodation
Shikitei blends traditional Japanese architecture with thoughtful, modern comforts. The ryokan features a variety of rooms, each designed to help you relax in peace.
Special Suite: Stay in a spacious room with a 12.5 tatami mat Japanese space, twin beds, and a private cypress bath. The suite can accommodate larger groups and offers both elegance and privacy.
Room with Open-Air Bath: Step into your private outdoor bath and enjoy a peaceful soak surrounded by fresh mountain air.
Rooms with Twin Beds: Enjoy the feel of a Japanese-style room with the comfort of twin beds. Perfect for couples or small groups.
8 Tatami Room: A compact, elegant space ideal for solo travelers or couples. This room is located near the large public bath for easy access.
10 Tatami Room: Relax in a tea room-style space with a broad veranda, perfect for reading or writing while enjoying views of the garden.
12 Tatami Room: A larger Japanese room suitable for families and groups seeking comfort and traditional charm.
All rooms include a washlet toilet, a unit bath or shared bath access, and thoughtful details that showcase the beauty of traditional Japanese design.
Dining
Shikitei serves kaiseki cuisine that changes each month, using fresh ingredients from both the sea and mountains. From spring oysters and summer sea urchin to autumn salmon and winter cod, each season brings new tastes to explore.
You’ll enjoy sashimi sourced from the Sanriku coast and meats like Maezawa beef, all paired with seasonal vegetables, mountain mushrooms, and handmade side dishes. Each meal features carefully prepared dishes crafted with dashi made from bonito, flying fish, and Sanriku kelp.
The rice—Hitomebore, grown in Iwate—is soft, glossy, and full of flavor, rounding out each meal with warmth and satisfaction.
Onsen and Wellness
The waters of Tsunagi Onsen have flowed since the 12th century, offering relief and relaxation for centuries. Rich in sulfur and alkaline minerals, this hot spring helps revitalize your skin and ease muscle tension.
Open-Air Bath: Soak outdoors while looking out at the mountains. The fresh air and seasonal scenery surround you as you relax deeply.
Indoor Bath: The large public bath faces the courtyard and garden, creating a peaceful, spacious environment for you to unwind.
Private Bath: Selected rooms include a private open-air bath where you can enjoy a soak whenever you wish, in complete privacy.
The ryokan adjusts bath temperatures seasonally so you can stay as long as you like, whether it’s a crisp winter morning or a cool summer night.
Guests with Tattoos
If you have tattoos, you can enjoy the baths without concern. The private bathing areas offer full privacy for a peaceful experience.
Facilities
Shikitei includes everything you need for a comfortable and quiet stay:
- Traditional Sukiya-style architecture
- Guest rooms with cypress or open-air baths
- Dining room serving seasonal kaiseki cuisine
- Large public and open-air baths
- Private baths in select rooms
- Garden views and natural surroundings
- Easy access to Morioka Station and Sanriku attractions
Activities
Explore the rich nature and culture of Iwate during your stay. Ride the train just a few hours to reach the Sanriku coast, or hike through forests and hills near the ryokan. Visit historic temples, local markets, or simply relax by Lake Gosho.
Every season offers something new—cherry blossoms, fall leaves, snow-covered mountains, and cool summer breezes. The staff can recommend nearby sites and experiences to help you make the most of your time in Morioka.
Additional Features
- Authentic seasonal meals with local ingredients
- Historical hot springs with healing properties
- Peaceful rooms in a traditional Japanese setting
- Comfortable bedding and thoughtful design
- Easy access to nature, cultural sites, and local towns
- Courtyard views and tea room-style spaces for rest and reflection