Zaimoku Sakaeya Ryokan

Zaimoku Sakaeya Ryokan, located at 6-11 Shinyu, Kaminoyama, Yamagata 999-3141, Japan, is a historic hot spring hotel dating back to 1920. Nestled in a quiet, residential area, it offers guests a peaceful retreat while being conveniently close to local attractions. Just a 7-minute walk from the reconstructed Edo-period Kaminoyama Castle and its scenic gardens, the ryokan provides an ideal base for those wishing to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. The hotel is also only 1 km from Kaminoyama-Onsen train station, making it easily accessible for travelers. Zaimoku Sakaeya's design is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese elegance and understated luxury, with tatami mat-floored rooms, futons, rice-paper screens, and chabudai dining tables that exude a serene, authentic atmosphere.
The rooms are thoughtfully furnished to create a tranquil environment where guests can unwind. They come equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and tea and coffee makers. Guests can enjoy the comfort of the traditional tatami rooms while having access to essential modern comforts. Upgraded rooms offer even more luxury with partially covered patios featuring cedar soaking tubs that are filled with naturally warm, mineral-rich hot spring water.
For relaxation, the ryokan offers an array of wellness features, including both indoor and outdoor communal bathhouses, where guests can soak in the therapeutic hot spring water. There are also private baths available for those seeking a more intimate experience. The traditional onsen (hot spring) facilities are designed to offer a serene atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. A coffee shop, a tearoom, and event spaces are available for guests looking to relax or engage in social activities.
Zaimoku Sakaeya is well-connected to local and regional transportation, with the nearest bus stops and Kaminoyamaonsen Station just a short walk away. Public transport makes it easy to access nearby sights, while the hotel also offers free parking for those traveling by car. The hotel is conveniently located for exploring both the local town and the scenic landscapes of the region. There are multiple public transport options to reach nearby airports, including Yamagata, Sendai, and Shonai Airports.
Guests can easily enjoy a variety of local experiences during their stay. The hotel’s proximity to landmarks such as the Zao Onsen, Zao Onsen Ski Resort, Kaminoyama-jo Castle Ruins, Mount Zaō, and the Zao Ropeway ensures a wealth of activities are within easy reach. Whether it's soaking in the hot springs, hiking, or enjoying winter sports, the location offers a wide array of activities for all seasons.
The surrounding area also boasts a vibrant dining scene. Within walking distance, guests will find several renowned restaurants, such as NORMA (Northern Italian cuisine), Okonomiyaki-ya Fufu (famous for Okonomiyaki), and Le ciel bleu (a French restaurant). Each provides a unique dining experience, offering both local and international flavors to cater to a variety of tastes. Other nearby options include 厩戸 -umayado- (macrobiotic dining) and 豊奈味 (a cozy Izakaya).
With its rich blend of traditional hospitality, modern amenities, and scenic surroundings, Zaimoku Sakaeya Ryokan is the perfect place for a restful getaway. Whether visiting for the hot springs, cultural experiences, or simply to enjoy a peaceful retreat, guests will find everything they need to make their stay memorable.