Mori-Sanso

Mori-Sanso, located in the heart of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, offers guests a peaceful retreat amidst stunning mountain views. This rustic hot spring inn, situated at Ishizuka Ryokan, Hashiba, Shizukuishi, Iwate District, Iwate 020-0582, Japan, is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. With the majestic beauty of the surrounding natural landscape, Mori-Sanso provides a serene and traditional experience for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. The inn is only 32 km from the Tazawako Ski Resort, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, while Mount Akita-Komagatake, located 38 km away, invites hikers and adventure lovers to explore its scenic trails.

The rooms at Mori-Sanso are designed to reflect the traditional Japanese aesthetic, with most featuring tatami floors and futons for an authentic and comfortable experience. Simple yet cozy, these rooms offer a sense of calm and relaxation, with scenic views that allow guests to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mountains. While some rooms have shared bathrooms, each room comes with its own sitting area, providing space to unwind. The rooms also offer tea-making facilities, and many provide access to a communal terrace, enhancing the overall experience of staying in this charming inn.

One of the unique features of Mori-Sanso is its communal bathhouse, which includes both indoor and open-air soaking tubs. These tubs are filled with natural mineral water, sourced from the region’s hot springs, and offer breathtaking views of the mountains. For guests traveling with their pets, the hotel offers a bath specifically designed for dogs, ensuring that every member of the family can enjoy the stay. Although the hotel does not have modern amenities such as a fitness center, spa, or air conditioning, the focus is on providing guests with a peaceful and immersive experience in a nature-rich environment. The homey restaurant serves a delicious breakfast daily, featuring traditional Japanese cuisine, and meals are enjoyed sitting around chabudai dining tables.

The hotel also provides free parking, making it convenient for guests who prefer to travel by car. For those relying on public transportation, Mori-Sanso is well-connected to key travel points. Tazawako Train Station is 22 km away, and major airports such as Ōdate-Noshiro, Akita, and Iwate Hanamaki are within a reasonable distance by taxi, ranging from 1 hour to over 2 hours of travel.

For guests who wish to explore the local culture, there are plenty of exciting things to do near the hotel. The Tazawako Ski Resort is just 47 minutes away, offering a variety of trails and panoramic lake views. Lake Tazawa, a stunning volcanic lake, is also nearby and is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and photography. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to Ookama Onsen, a hot spring inn surrounded by woodlands, or venture to Omedake, a notable point of interest in the area.

The area is home to several renowned restaurants offering a wide range of culinary experiences. Popular choices include 欧風食堂グランビア, a restaurant 32 minutes by taxi from the hotel, and Michinoku, a traditional Syokudo and Teishoku restaurant just 30 minutes away. For something unique, guests can try Restaurant LAMP (1 hour 9 minutes by taxi) or Beer Restaurant ORAE (36 minutes by taxi), where craft beers are served alongside delicious food. For a taste of local cuisine, レストラン しらかば is an excellent option, located 41 minutes from the inn.

Mori-Sanso invites you to experience a traditional and peaceful Japanese retreat in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. Whether you're here to unwind in nature, explore nearby attractions, or simply enjoy the hot springs, your stay promises to be unforgettable.