A hidden inn exclusively for two | Enjoy creative kaiseki cuisine featuring Yonezawa beef at Toki no Yado Sumire | A special experience just for the two of you!
- ADDRESS：〒992-1205 山形県米沢市関根１２７０３−４
- OTHER：電話番号： 0238-35-2234
Toki no Yado Sumire is a ryokan (Japanese inn) exclusively for couples where you can enjoy Yonezawa beef. Enjoy a special moment with the finest creative kaiseki cuisine and luxurious private space.
参考：https://www.homemate-research-hotel.com/dtl/00000000000000066771/
1. What is the appeal of Yonezawa beef and the Toki no Yado Sumire inn?
1-1. The history and characteristics of Yonezawa beef
reference：https://www.furusato-tax.jp/feature/detail/06202/14797
Yonezawa Beef is a premium brand considered one of Japan’s three major wagyu beef breeds, characterized by its beautiful marbling and tender meat.
With a history dating back to the Edo period, Yonezawa Beef’s quality is maintained by a rich natural environment and careful breeding methods. Furthermore, only beef cattle that meet specific criteria can bear the name Yonezawa Beef, making the name a sign of trust.
Historical Background: The livestock industry encouraged by Uesugi Yozan of the Yonezawa Domain laid the foundation for the development of Yonezawa Beef.
Quality Requirements: Only beef cattle that have been raised in Yamagata Prefecture for a certain period of time and meet strict standards are recognized as Yonezawa Beef.
Characteristics: Characterized by beautiful marbling and a refined sweetness, it is ideal for a variety of dishes, including steak, shabu-shabu, and sukiyaki.
Yonezawa Beef’s deep history and reliable quality make it ideal for those seeking an exceptional culinary experience.
1-2. “Toki no Yado Sumire” – The perfect harmony between the inn and Yonezawa beef
参考：https://www.tokinoyado.com/food/
The deliciousness of Yonezawa beef, combined with the attentive hospitality of the Toki no Yado Sumire inn, creates a unique and special experience.
To ensure that you can enjoy Yonezawa beef at its best, the local inn uses carefully selected meat and combines it with seasonal local ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere of a hot spring resort further enhances the deliciousness of the meal.
・Attention to Ingredients:
Yonezawa beef is shipped directly from the long-established restaurant “Oki,” guaranteeing its freshness and quality.
Cooked with locally harvested wild plants and seasonal vegetables, the beef’s flavor is brought out to the fullest.
・Cooking Techniques:
Cooking methods tailored to the characteristics of Yonezawa beef (such as searing, stewing, and steak) ensure that each dish has a special flavor.
The kaiseki cuisine style unique to hot spring inns allows you to enjoy a variety of flavors in one meal.
・Synergy with the Hot Springs:
Enjoying Yonezawa beef after a relaxing soak in the hot springs will leave you feeling even more satisfied. Enjoying a meal in a relaxed state after a bath will satisfy both body and mind.
The Yonezawa beef you can enjoy at a ryokan offers a special travel experience thanks to its freshness, meticulous preparation, and harmony with the hot springs. Meals made with local ingredients are a luxury you can only find at a ryokan.
1-3. Connection with the long-established Yonezawa beef store “Oki”
reference：https://yonezawagyu-o-ki.com/recruit/
By partnering with Oki, a long-established Yonezawa beef producer, the inn allows guests to enjoy the highest quality Yonezawa beef.
Oki is a trusted, established company that has been committed to quality control and brand maintenance for Yonezawa beef for many years. The Yonezawa beef used at the inn is sourced directly from Oki, ensuring freshness and quality. Furthermore, Oki Ayako, the proprietress of Toki no Yado Sumire, was born and raised in this long-established family and offers a special space that combines the traditions of Yonezawa beef with the hospitality of an inn.
・Oki’s Role:
Increasing brand value not only through butchery, but also through processed products and activities to promote Yonezawa beef.
Oki’s carefully selected Yonezawa beef is characterized by its uniform meat texture and the sweetness of its fat.
・Use at the inn:
At Toki no Yado Sumire, the finest Yonezawa beef sourced from Oki is served in creative kaiseki meals.
In collaboration with Oki, a long-established Yonezawa beef restaurant, the Yonezawa beef experience at the inn will be a special one like no other.
2. Overview and Features of “Toki no Yado Sumire”
2-1. A special space just for the two of you
reference：https://travel.yahoo.co.jp/00001234/
Toki no Yado Sumire offers a special space reserved for two, allowing you to enjoy a private moment.
All rooms are designed “exclusively for two,” creating a quiet, high-quality space. The design minimizes contact with other guests, creating a relaxing environment for couples and married couples. Furthermore, the inn does not accept single guests or groups of three or more; the exclusive two-person limit emphasizes this sense of exclusivity.
・Room design: Elegant interiors based on Japanese modern style, with large windows that allow for beautiful seasonal views.
・Privacy: Some rooms feature a private open-air bath and a separate dining space, ensuring complete privacy.
・Special service: Staff will flexibly accommodate each couple and support their special stay.
This spatial design, one of Toki no Yado Sumire’s distinctive features, is perfect for enjoying a moment of seclusion for two, away from the everyday.
2-2. Creative kaiseki cuisine using the finest Yonezawa beef
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/food/
One of Toki no Yado Sumire’s hallmarks is its creative kaiseki cuisine, featuring the finest Yonezawa beef.
The restaurant serves dishes that combine seasonal ingredients with Yonezawa beef sourced from the long-established local restaurant Oki. Each dish is meticulously crafted, making it both visually stunning and memorable.
・From appetizers to dessert: Enjoy a variety of Yonezawa beef preparations, including seared, steak, and shabu-shabu.
・Integration of local ingredients: Pairing the dishes with seasonal Yamagata vegetables and sake enhances the overall balance of the cuisine.
The explanation of the dishes and the timing of their presentation are carefully thought out, creating a special atmosphere.
This cuisine, a hallmark of Toki no Yado Sumire, is the perfect choice for couples to share a luxurious time together.
2-3. Hot Springs and Relaxation
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/spa/
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/spa/
Toki no Yado Sumire offers a special time to heal both body and mind through hot springs and relaxation.
Yunosawa Onsen is a historic hot spring that was featured in the “List of Hot Spring Effects of Various Provinces,” compiled before the Genroku period (approximately 300 years ago), and is known for its rejuvenating and relaxing effects. The waters warm the body from the inside out and are excellent for relieving everyday fatigue.
Hot Spring Features:
The waters are known for their skin-beautifying properties, leaving your skin moisturized even after a bath.
From the outdoor open-air bath, you can enjoy mountain views that change with the seasons.
Relaxation Space:
A lounge serves local herbal tea after your bath.
A relaxation menu using aromatic oils is also available as an option.
This hot spring, a distinctive feature of Toki no Yado Sumire, utilizes the historic Yunosawa Onsen to provide an ideal relaxation experience to soothe modern-day fatigue.
2-4. Room types and features
Tokino Yado Sumire offers two types of guest rooms: Japanese-Western style rooms and Western-style rooms, each offering luxurious spaces with their own unique charm.
All rooms feature a unified Japanese modern design, carefully selected to ensure couples and married couples can relax. All rooms also come equipped with private baths, allowing you to enjoy the hot springs in the privacy of your own room.
Japanese-Western style rooms:
The design combines tatami mats and beds, combining the serenity of Japanese style with the comfort of Western style.
The spacious living space allows for ample relaxation.
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/room/room_wayou/#room1
Western-style room:
Featuring sophisticated Western-style interiors, it is perfect for those seeking a stylish stay.
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/room/room_wayou/#room1
The rooms at Toki no Yado Sumire are unique in that they offer a special accommodation experience, emphasizing privacy while providing a luxurious space.
2-5. Relaxing time in the lounge
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/stay_villa/
The lounge at Toki no Yado Sumire is a special space where you can spend a comfortable time in a relaxed atmosphere.
The spacious space, filled with natural light, is unified by a simple yet sophisticated design. Drinks and light snacks made with local specialties are served, perfect for refreshing during your stay.
Herb tea and coffee:
Fresh herbal tea made with locally grown herbs is popular.
You can also enjoy fragrant coffee at your leisure.
Seasonal specialties:
Sweets made with Yamagata fruits and local ingredients are available.
Special menus are sometimes offered each season.
Reading and relaxation:
The bookshelves are stocked with travel-related books and essays, allowing you to enjoy some quiet time with a book.
The lounge at Toki no Yado Sumire offers a relaxing time separate from the meals and hot springs, making it an important space that will enrich your stay.
3. Enjoy Yonezawa beef at Toki no Yado Sumire
3-1. Creative Kaiseki menu example
The Yonezawa beef enjoyed at Toki no Yado Sumire is carefully prepared one dish at a time as part of creative kaiseki cuisine, offering a special flavor.
The diverse menu incorporates local ingredients, centered around Yonezawa beef carefully selected by the chef. The individuality and balance of each dish will leave diners impressed.
・Appetizers: Grilled sushi made with Yonezawa beef and beautiful bite-sized dishes incorporating local vegetables.
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/food/#ttl2
・Main dish: Yonezawa beef steak is cooked to perfection, allowing you to enjoy the sweetness of the fat.
The live kitchen where the food is prepared on a hot plate right in front of you is a sight to behold.
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/food/#ttl2
・Hot Pot: Shabu-shabu and sukiyaki style dishes bring out the tenderness and flavor of Yonezawa beef to the fullest.
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/food/#ttl2
・Dessert: A sweet treat made with local fruits makes a lovely end to your meal.
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/food/#ttl2
Enjoying creative kaiseki cuisine featuring Yonezawa beef at Toki no Yado Sumire is a supreme dining experience worthy of creating a special moment.
3-2. A marriage of local ingredients
The deliciousness of the Yonezawa beef enjoyed at Toki no Yado Sumire is further enhanced by its marriage with local ingredients.
Yonezawa beef is paired with seasonal ingredients grown in Yonezawa’s natural environment to create harmonious dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with locally grown vegetables and sake.
Vegetables: Seasonal wild vegetables and traditional local vegetables are used to enhance the flavor of the Yonezawa beef.
Condiments: A special sauce made with Yamagata soy sauce and miso brings out the umami of the meat.
Sake: Fine local sake is paired with the rich flavor of Yonezawa beef to enhance the overall dish’s perfection.
The marriage of local ingredients with the Yonezawa beef dishes enjoyed at Toki no Yado Sumire elevates them to extraordinary heights.
3-3. Hospitality that reflects the four seasons
reference：https://www.tokinoyado.com/blog/sumire/sumiremeal/7051
The Yonezawa beef enjoyed at Toki no Yado Sumire is decorated with seasonal colors and themes, offering unique ways to enjoy it at each season.
Incorporating the changing seasons offers new surprises and excitement with each visit. The seasonal ingredients and events are also appealing.
Spring: Yonezawa beef seasoned with wild vegetables and bamboo shoots, a dish that evokes the feeling of fresh greenery.
Summer: Chilled Yonezawa beef roast and refreshing side dishes to cool down.
Autumn: Matsutake mushroom and Yonezawa beef in earthenware pot, and appetizers presented in an autumn leaf motif.
Winter: Yukimi nabe and piping hot sukiyaki create a luxurious winter experience.
Enjoying Yonezawa beef cuisine at Toki no Yado Sumire is an experience filled with the special feeling of each season and the spirit of hospitality.
4. Recommended plans for staying at Yado Sumire
4-1. A two-day, one-night plan perfect for anniversaries
reference：https://hotel.travel.rakuten.co.jp/hotelinfo/plan/144958
Tokino Yado Sumire and its recommended anniversary plan are perfect for couples looking to share a special moment.
Yado Sumire offers a completely private space, the finest Yonezawa beef kaiseki cuisine, and soothing hot springs, making your anniversary even more glamorous. Optional surprises such as a bouquet of flowers or cake can also be arranged.
Day 1:
3:00 PM: After check-in, relax with a welcome drink.
Evening: Soothe your travel fatigue in the open-air bath reserved for guests.
Evening: Savor a creative kaiseki meal made with plenty of local seasonal ingredients. The main course is Yonezawa beef steak provided by Oki.
Late Night: Enjoy wine or champagne while gazing at the starry sky in your room.
Day 2:
Morning: Enjoy a Japanese breakfast made with fresh local vegetables and Yamagata specialties.
Morning: Relax in your room until check-out.
Toki no Yado Sumire and its recommended anniversary plans are the perfect choice to make your special day an unforgettable memory.
4-2. Recommended stay models for each season
reference：https://asp.hotel-story.ne.jp/ver3d/planlist.asp?hcod1=67850
A stay at Toki no Yado Sumire allows you to experience the charms of each season.
The Yonezawa area is rich in nature and culture, with each season offering a different look. Seasonal special dishes and events are also a unique feature of Inn Sumire.
Spring (March – May):
Enjoy creative kaiseki cuisine featuring wild vegetables while enjoying the beautiful scenery of fresh greenery.
Take a stroll to nearby Matsugasaki Park, a famous cherry blossom viewing spot.
Summer (June – August):
Enjoy chilled Yonezawa beef dishes and refreshing local sake while feeling the cool highland breeze.
Enjoy trekking and nature observation at Tengendai Plateau.
Autumn (September – November):
The open-air bath surrounded by autumn leaves and the autumn-only kaiseki cuisine featuring mushrooms are popular.
Enjoy autumn leaf-viewing while dining on Yonezawa beef sukiyaki.
Winter (December – February):
Enjoy a special time warming your body and soul with a snow-viewing bath and a warm hot pot.
Relax at the inn after enjoying a day of skiing or snowboarding.
Toki no Yado Sumire and its recommended seasonal stays will provide you with new discoveries and excitement no matter how many times you visit.
5. Access information and sightseeing in the area
5-1. Access by car and public transport
Tokino Yado Sumire is conveniently located by car or public transportation.
Located in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, Tokino Yado Sumire is easily accessible from all over Japan via major transportation routes. Thanks to its well-developed Shinkansen and expressways, access is excellent.
・Access by Car:
From Tokyo: Take the Tohoku Expressway and exit at Fukushima Iizaka IC. Then, head north on National Route 13 for approximately 1.5 hours.
From Sendai: Head south on the Tohoku Expressway and exit at Yonezawa-Chuo IC. From there, it’s approximately a 15-minute drive.
・Access by Public Transportation:
By Shinkansen: Take the Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Yonezawa Station, approximately 2.5 hours.
From Yonezawa Station, it’s approximately a 15-minute taxi ride to the property, or you can reserve a shuttle service in advance.
*If you require a shuttle service, we recommend making a reservation by phone in advance.
Please note: Due to the heavy snowfall in winter, studless tires are essential if visiting by car. Also, please check in advance whether parking is available at your accommodation.
“Toki no Yado Sumire and Access” offers a variety of transportation options, ensuring a stress-free trip for tourists.
5-2. How to make a reservation and important points to note
Reservations for Tokino Yado Sumire can be made easily via the official website or by phone.
The official website is convenient for checking accommodation plans and room availability, and it is recommended to call directly if you have any special requests.
Booking via the official website:
You can check the list of plans and prices, and make online reservations 24 hours a day.
Seasonal plans and special campaigns are also listed.
Official website：https://www.tokinoyado.com/
We can discuss any special requests regarding accommodation (such as anniversaries or dietary restrictions).
Telephone reservation：
telephone number：0238-35-2234
FAQ：https://www.tokinoyado.com/faq/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Points to note：
As this is a popular accommodation, we recommend making your reservation early.
It’s also a good idea to check the cancellation policy and check-in/check-out times in advance.
Make your reservation at Toki no Yado Sumire smoothly by using the official website or by phone, and plan a special stay.
5-3. Nearby sightseeing and recommended souvenirs
We recommend visiting the tourist spots around Tokino Yado Sumire and choosing local specialties as souvenirs.
1. Takahata Winery (approximately 30 minutes by car)
Tourist attractions:Takahata Winery in Takahata Town is one of Yamagata Prefecture’s leading wine-producing regions. You can enjoy tastings and tours of the beautiful vineyards and sophisticated winery facilities.
Recommended souvenirs：
・Takahata Wine: Red and white sparkling wine made with locally grown grapes. Popular gift boxed wines.
・Winery-exclusive products: Be sure to check out the limited edition wines and sweets that can only be purchased here.
2. Uesugi Shrine and Yonezawa City (approximately 20 minutes by car)
Tourist spots：
At Uesugi Shrine, which enshrines the Sengoku warlord Uesugi Kenshin, you can enjoy historical buildings and gardens.Yonezawa City is also dotted with specialty shops selling local ingredients.
Recommended souvenirs：
・Yonezawa beef related products: Processed products such as instant curry and beef jerky are popular Yonezawa specialties.
・Sake: Local sake from “Toko” and “Yonezuru Sake Brewery” can be purchased at the specialty goods store near Uesugi Shrine.
3. Yamagata Railway Flower Nagai Line and Fruit Shop (approximately 40 minutes by car)
Sightseeing Spots:
The Flower Nagai Line offers a scenic train journey, showcasing beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. There are also many fruit stands along the line, where you can purchase fresh, locally grown fruit.
Recommended souvenirs:
・Fruits (cherries, La France pears, etc.): Fruits lovingly grown by local farmers are known for their rich flavor.
・Fruit products: Jams, jellies, and dried fruit are easy to take home and make great gifts.
To further enhance your stay at Toki no Yado Sumire, enjoy browsing the surrounding tourist spots and choosing souvenirs. Local specialties such as wine, fruit, and Yonezawa beef products will make for cherished memories of your trip.
6. Summary: Enjoy a special time with Yonezawa beef and a ryokan
reference：https://travel.rakuten.co.jp/HOTEL/144958/144958.html
By spending a special time at Toki no Yado Sumire, you can fully savor the charm of Yonezawa beef and the soothing atmosphere of a ryokan.
At Toki no Yado Sumire, you can experience creative kaiseki cuisine using the finest Yonezawa beef, a private space, soothing hot springs for body and mind, and special seasonal hospitality. These combine to provide an extraordinary, luxurious experience.
The Allure of Yonezawa Beef: Each dish, made with the highest quality Yonezawa beef sourced from the long-established Oki ryokan, is not only beautiful like a work of art, but also memorable for your taste buds.
A Special Space: Designed exclusively for two, you can enjoy a completely private space without worrying about other guests.
Seasonal Enjoyment: Fresh greenery in spring, cool breezes in summer, autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy scenery in winter. You can enjoy the luxury of enjoying the hot springs and cuisine while sensing the changing seasons.
Spending time at a ryokan and Yonezawa beef will truly make you experience “A Special Moment with Toki no Yado Sumire.” Once you visit, you’ll be captivated by its charm and want to return again and again.