1.What is Yamagataza Takinami? | An inn that preserves the “spirit of Akayu Onsen”

参考：https://sakenekoonsen.blog.fc2.com/blog-entry-1791.html

Yamagataza Takinami in Akayu Onsen, Nanyo City, Yamagata Prefecture, is an inn highly acclaimed by hot spring connoisseurs nationwide for its 100% natural hot spring water in all of its baths, its authentic hot springs protected by a hot spring keeper, and its heartwarming hospitality. The architectural space, housed in a relocated traditional Japanese house over 100 years old, and the friendly service of the staff will make your stay an experience that feels like a taste of culture.

This inn is more than just a place to stay; it’s a “cultural inn” that conveys the hot spring culture and human activities of the Akayu region to the present day.
This is due to the fact that all of the hot spring water is 100% source-fed, the building is a relocated village headman’s house over 360 years old, and each and every staff member embodies the “spirit of hospitality.” In other words, it’s a rare inn where the facilities, space, and customer service are all unified by a single “spiritual” quality.

Yamagata’s traditional techniques are alive and well in every detail, with temperature control specialists known as “yumori” adjusting the water temperature daily and guest rooms featuring Yamagata cast iron and artisan-crafted wooden furniture. Guests can enjoy pesticide-free vegetables from the local Okitama region for breakfast, and the inn staff act as “storytellers” to carefully share the history of Akayu and the background of its hot springs.

Yamagataza Takinami overturns the common perception of an inn as just a place to stay. This one-of-a-kind hot spring inn allows you to experience living culture with all five senses.

1-1.10What is Wari Hot Spring Flow? | Approaching the essence of “Akayu no Yu” supported by the Yumori

参考：https://www.ikyu.com/00002496/story/29387

All of Yamagataza Takinami’s baths are 100% natural, with no added water, no heating, and no circulating filtration. This is made possible by artisans known as “yumori” (bath attendants).

The term “natural, natural spring water” is widely used in the inn industry, but very few facilities truly maintain 100% natural flow. Many facilities add water to lower the temperature or reuse the water through circulating filtration, which is inferior in terms of hygiene, freshness, and long-lasting efficacy. In contrast, Yamagataza Takinami never reuses the hot spring water that flows out of the fountain, and is committed to using water in its natural state.

The source water of Akayu Onsen is approximately 60°C. This hot water is naturally cooled using air channels, wooden buckets, and stone, and then poured into each bath at the optimal temperature. The water in the baths is constantly replaced with new water throughout the day, and any water that overflows from the bottom of the bath is simply drained.

Every day, the bath attendants check the temperature, color, scent, and water level of the hot spring, keeping track of its condition and making adjustments accordingly. This makes it possible to maintain a stable state of the natural hot spring, whose concentration, mineral content, and salt content are prone to change.

It’s said that you can tell the authenticity of Akayu’s hot spring water just by touching it. Behind this lies the presence of bath attendants who spare no effort and investment in facilities, and the inn’s philosophy of “delivering the hot spring water in its original state.”

1-2.Craftsmanship that draws out the power of the hot springs | The appeal of hot springs with a high temperature of 60°C and spring quality that is good for your skin

参考：https://yamagata-the-takinami.com/onsen/

Akayu Onsen’s spring waters are sodium-calcium chloride springs. These springs are known for their skin-beautifying properties, heat retention, and muscle recovery, and Yamagata Za Takinami strives to maximize these benefits.

Chloride springs create a salt veil on the skin’s surface, preventing moisture from evaporating, resulting in a longer-lasting after-bath experience. They’re also said to be effective against joint pain, chronic skin conditions, and nerve pain, making them ideal for hot spring therapy (toji).

At Yamagata Za Takinami, all of the indoor baths in guest rooms are 100% sourced, providing guests with a private, relaxing space. Furthermore, meticulous attention has been paid to the design and materials of the bathrooms. For example, the stone bathtubs are made with basalt from Yamagata Prefecture, which emits far-infrared rays, further enhancing the sensation of warmth to the core.

Furthermore, after your bath, local juices, natural water, herbal teas and other beverages are available, and one of the hotel’s charms is the thoughtful consideration given to reducing the strain on the body after a bath.

Yamagataza Takinami has elevated hot springs from something to be “taken in” to something to be “felt.” Not only the quality of the spring water, but the way the water is handled and the entire design philosophy are imbued with a love for hot springs.

1-3.A hot spring that lasts for a long time and offers heartfelt hospitality, cherishing every encounter.

参考：https://yamagata-the-takinami.com/recruit_main-building/

The biggest reason guests choose Yamagataza Takinami is its sense of personal connection. It’s not formal hospitality, but warm, heart-to-heart service that makes a lasting impression.

Modern accommodations tend to standardize and standardize service. However, Yamagataza Takinami emphasizes personalized attention. Our staff memorizes each guest’s name and face, and is committed to providing a conversation and understanding of their travels.

Welcome drinks served upon arrival include local sake and juice, and seasonal welcome foods are also available.

During dinner, the chef often comes directly to your table to explain the specialties of the dishes.

Guests celebrating anniversaries or birthdays are also offered a complimentary handwritten message plate.

Repeat guests often share their experiences from their previous stays, naturally creating an atmosphere that makes them want to return.

A stay is not about consuming things, but about experiencing things. At Yamagataza Takinami, you’ll feel respected as an individual. This is the very reason why it is loved as a place you’ll want to visit again.

2. Deep dive into the charm of 100% natural hot springs | The commitment of an inn with a bathkeeper

2-1.What sets us apart from other inns: We don’t just use the hot spring water for every drop, we use only the hot spring water

参考：https://www.fujingaho.jp/travel/hotel/g46122995/onsen-award-yamagataza-takinami-231218/

To cut to the chase, the greatest feature of Yamagataza Takinami is that it offers authentic, 100% natural hot spring water. While many hot spring inns claim to offer “natural hot spring water” even if they only have a small amount of the source mixed in, Yamagataza Takinami maintains a strict stance, insisting that “not a single drop of water is added” and that all the water in the bath is source water.

For example, a typical inn might add chlorine or tap water to maintain sanitation and temperature. However, at Yamagataza Takinami, we insist on using 100% natural hot spring water without heating, adding water, or circulating it, in order to deliver the natural ingredients of the source water as is. This directly affects the freshness and efficacy of the water, and is particularly well-received for its noticeable difference in the softness and thermal effect on the skin.

In other words, Yamagataza Takinami offers solid value for authentic travelers who choose their inn based on the quality of the water, rather than its facilities or luxury.

2-2. What is a Yumori? | Akayu’s traditional professional skills for adjusting the high temperature of the 60℃ spring water

参考：https://www.fujingaho.jp/travel/hotel/g46122995/onsen-award-yamagataza-takinami-231218/

At Yamagataza Takinami, dedicated craftsmen known as “yumori” are in charge of managing the hot springs. These aren’t just maintenance staff; they’re professionals who make meticulous adjustments to the source’s temperature, water volume, and time of day.

The reason yumori are necessary is that 100% source hot spring water is easily affected by outside temperatures, making it difficult to maintain the appropriate temperature depending on the time of day and season. Yumori, like a stylist, fine-tune the amount of water poured into the bath and how it flows, maintaining the optimum temperature and freshness of the water.

For example, if the bath temperature differs between morning and evening, the amount of source water added is manually adjusted to maintain a constant temperature. This skill and intuition require years of experience, and only a very limited number of inns across Japan employ yumori.

It’s thanks to these yumori that Yamagataza Takinami’s free-flowing hot spring water is so highly regarded as a “work of hot spring art.”

2-3. Skin-beautifying effects and high-quality water | Why is it chosen by regular customers who prioritize water quality?

参考：https://tabiyomi.yomiuri-ryokou.co.jp/article/001815.html

In conclusion, Yamagataza Takinami is enthusiastically supported by hot spring enthusiasts who place the utmost importance on the quality of their water. This is due to the overwhelming freshness of its 100% source water and the careful preparation of its water by the bathkeepers.

Specifically, Akayu Onsen’s unique, slightly alkaline spring waters smooth the skin and leave it feeling moisturized for a long time after bathing. The lukewarm bath temperature is also ideal for long soaks, and repeat visitors consistently comment that it “warms you from the inside out.”

Some regulars stay several times a year, and many say they “can’t go back to other hot springs” or “go to meet the bathkeepers.” For hot spring connoisseurs, Yamagataza Takinami is more than just a place to stay; it’s beloved as a trusted “hot spring sanctuary.”

In this way, Yamagataza Takinami is a special place that takes the quality of its hot springs seriously and heals the mind and body of its visitors through its waters.

3. A fusion of gourmet food and space | A dining experience unique to Yamagataza

3-1.Akayu’s creative cuisine, created by a chef who interacts with producers | The spirit and skill of local production and consumption

参考：https://goetheweb.jp/gourmet/article/20250125-takinami

The cuisine at Yamagataza Takinami goes beyond simple “local production for local consumption.” It’s “dialogue cuisine,” in which the head chef personally visits local producers, breathing in the air of their fields and workshops to absorb the passion that’s infused into the ingredients, and reflecting it in each dish.

In addition to the quality of the ingredients, a deep understanding of how they were grown and who produced them gives the dishes their unique character and depth. The Yamagata climate and the trust between the chef and the producers are key to creating one-of-a-kind flavors.

The head chef meets face-to-face with contracted farmers in Nanyo City, Nagai’s organic farm, and wild vegetable pickers in Shirataka Town, gathering seasonal information from daily conversations. For example, tomatoes, whose sweetness varies depending on the altitude and soil type, and mountain burdock picked that morning are served prepared in a way that suits the day. To maintain freshness, the seafood, including sea bass and marbled flounder, is delivered directly from Shonai Beach and served freshly prepared. The seasonings are also meticulously selected, with miso and soy sauce sourced from long-established Yamagata breweries and naturally fermented with no additives.

The chef’s approach of engaging in a dialogue with the ingredients goes beyond mere technique; it is a culinary expression that sublimates Yamagata’s land, culture, and people into a single dish.

Furthermore, the hotel pays special attention to the rice that forms the foundation of the cuisine. The hotel uses Yamagata’s legendary Yumegokochi rice, whose aroma, stickiness, and sweetness captivate many guests. You may be thinking, “What!? When you think of Yamagata rice, isn’t it Koshihikari?” But actually…

The appeal of this legendary rice is revealed in a separate article, “Which is tastier: Yumegokochi or Koshihikari? A Yamagata resident compares them thoroughly!” ‘, so please take a look at that as well.

3-2.Enjoy the sights and be amazed by the tastes | The power of Akayu’s gourmet experience to stimulate the five senses

参考：https://discoverjapan-web.com/article/82712

At Yamagataza Takinami, cuisine is presented as a “spatial art” that stimulates not just the sense of taste, but also sight, smell, touch, and hearing.

A true culinary experience transforms the act of eating into a “memory.” To achieve this, it is necessary to stimulate the “five senses of the heart” through not only delicious food, but also the texture of the tableware, the color of the presentation, the light and sound of the space, and interactions with the staff.

Dinner is served in a dining room that blends traditional Japanese decor with a modern aesthetic. The room is decorated with pottery and lacquerware by local artists, and the chef and staff carefully explain the meaning behind each piece. For example, the sake cups, created by a potter from Kawanishi Town, are designed to transmit warmth the moment they touch the lips, enhancing the flavor of the local sake.

The order of the dishes also has a narrative quality, with the menu spanning the four seasons and the local climate, from appetizers to dessert. For example, in spring, mountain vegetable tempura is served on a plate modeled after a mountain cherry blossom, and in autumn, a hassun dish decorated with persimmon leaves is served. The color temperature of the lighting is adjusted depending on the time of day, and the impression of the space changes as the meal progresses.

A meal here is like a stage on which everything from “Itadakimasu” (thank you for the meal) to “Gochisousama” (thank you for the meal) is staged. A place of beauty and sensibility that allows you to rediscover your five senses with every visit.の饗宴です。

3-3.Special desserts and heartwarming surprises for special occasions | The legendary “Akayu Time”

At Yamagataza Takinami, thoughtful consideration is poured into every detail to make special anniversaries unforgettable. We can accommodate special occasions such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries, and 60th birthday celebrations.

Sharing memories with loved ones requires not only the food and atmosphere, but also surprises and subtle touches. Providing warm, unobtrusive service creates a lasting experience for guests.

For anniversaries, we offer a complimentary service where guests can write a message such as “Happy Anniversary” in chocolate pen on the plate served with dinner dessert. The message will be added to a dessert on the menu.

For birthday guests, staff sometimes sing “Happy Birthday” together, a touch that touches many guests’ hearts. This can be accommodated upon reservation, and we are flexible in accommodating even the most delicate requests.

For milestone occasions such as 60th and 77th birthdays, we can also add small touches such as decorations with local flowers or handwritten cards (details subject to consultation).

Yamagataza Takinami’s hospitality, which places importance not only on “celebrating” but also on “preserving” the special occasion, will help turn your life’s anniversaries into rich memories.

In addition, Yamagataza Takinami’s annex, Sincerita, serves authentic Italian course meals, perfect for anniversaries and special occasions. In a casual yet sophisticated space, you can enjoy another gourmet experience on your trip. For more details, please see our separate article, “Making your special day even more special: An exquisite evening at Osteria Sincerita, Yamagataza Takinami’s highest-class hotel.” Yamagataza Takinami’s hospitality, which places importance not only on “celebrating” but also on “preserving” the special occasion, will help turn your life’s anniversaries into rich memories.

4. Actual guest reviews | A lodging you’ll want to visit again

4-1. A hot topic on social media and word of mouth: A touching story about the work of a bathhouse attendant

参考：https://business.mobile.rakuten.co.jp/column/2023/0810-02/

Yamagataza Takinami has received numerous heartwarming reviews on social media and booking sites. These comments go beyond simple service ratings; they encapsulate the true value of a lodging that makes guests want to return.

Satisfaction with the lodging experience is deeply connected not only to the comfort of the guest room and the quality of the hot springs, but also to emotional interactions such as interactions with staff and surprises. In the age of social media, these emotions are shared in real time, spreading the appeal of the inn through empathy.

On Instagram, there are many posts such as, “I was moved to tears when I received a bouquet of local flowers and a handwritten message as a birthday surprise.” On X (formerly Twitter), stories of touching thoughtfulness are also being shared, such as, “When they sent me something I had forgotten, they included a letter,” and “When I fell ill late at night, they quietly left a hot water bottle and herbal tea in my room.”

Furthermore, reviews on Rakuten Travel and Ikyu.com are filled with words of gratitude for the “memorable service,” such as “The seasonal dishes were explained in detail, and the meal was the highlight of the trip,” and “When I checked out, all the staff waved to me outside.”

These touching stories are proof that this is an inn that guests will naturally want to tell others about. And sharing these stories is what draws in new fans.

4-2. “I was comforted by the smiles of the staff” – A travel memory | The essence of hospitality

参考：https://yamagata-the-takinami.com/recruit-2024/

Many guests who stay at Yamagataza Takinami say they were comforted by the staff’s smiles. This proves that the sense of security people give to others has a major impact on the impression they have of a trip.

A sense of security and relaxation while traveling often depends more on the personality of the staff than on the comfort of the facilities. Especially when visiting a new place, the staff’s smiles and natural greetings can help ease tension and lead to a truly satisfying stay.

Many reviews say, “I was nervous on my first trip to Akayu, but the moment the reception staff greeted me with a smile and ‘Welcome to Akayu,’ I felt a sense of relief and relief.” Many also commented that they were impressed by the casual interactions, such as the welcome drink handed to them at check-in and the casual conversations they had over dinner.

Furthermore, all staff members are trained to be able to talk about the inn’s charms and hot springs, and some even hold hot spring sommelier licenses. This proves that the service is not just a simple smile, but one that exudes trust and knowledge.

A smile is the simplest yet most powerful weapon of hospitality. At Yamagataza Takinami, smiles are the decisive attraction that makes guests want to come back again.

4-3. Reasons why I stay here every time I visit Akayu | A number of memorable accommodation experiences

参考：https://x.gd/zWOwh

Yamagataza Takinami boasts many loyal guests who return every time they visit Akayu Onsen. This is because the inn offers both a sense of security and ever-evolving satisfaction.

The primary reason repeat guests choose the inn is that it combines expectations with new discoveries. While providing the same sense of security every time, Yamagataza Takinami strives to ensure guests never tire of their stay by offering seasonal changes in ingredients, events, and customer service.

One regular guest commented, “At first, I came here for the hot spring water, but now meeting the staff has become a highlight of my trip.” Others commented on the hotel’s thoughtful touches, saying, “On my fifth stay, I was surprised the staff remembered our conversation,” and “When I returned on an anniversary, my room was decorated with a handwritten card and local flowers.”

The inn’s exhibits and art pieces are rotated seasonally, further increasing its appeal as a cultural experience. What’s notable about this place is that many visitors are not only fans of Akayu Onsen itself, but also fans of Yamagataza Takinami as a place.

It’s not just that they want to come back, but that they want to stay only here. It’s the kind of experience that continues to draw travelers to Akayu to Yamagataza Takinami.

5-5. Yamagataza Takinami Access and Reservation Guide

5-1. Access to Akayu Onsen and Yamagataza Takinami | A comprehensive guide to car, train, and free parking

Yamagataza Takinami is easily accessible by both public transportation and private car. With free shuttle service from Akayu Station and ample free parking, it’s a highly convenient lodging for tourists.

Ease of access is one of the major factors that influence travel satisfaction. Located in the heart of Akayu Onsen, Yamagataza Takinami is accessible by Shinkansen, conventional train lines, and expressways, providing a hassle-free travel environment for travelers from both within and outside the prefecture.

By train, it’s approximately 2.5 hours by Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo. After disembarking at JR Akayu Station, you can use the lodging’s free shuttle service (reservations required, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM). The lodging is only a 5-minute drive from the station, and guests are provided with detailed information about where to wait and how to contact the shuttle.

By car, it’s approximately 1.5 hours north on National Route 13 from the Fukushima Iizaka Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway. Alternatively, it’s about an hour south from the Yamagata Zao Interchange on the Yamagata Expressway. There’s free parking on the inn’s grounds that can accommodate over 30 cars, and reservations aren’t required.

While there are currently no charging stations for electric vehicles, there are rapid charging facilities nearby, such as Nanyo City Hall and Takahata Roadside Station.

Yamagata Zao Takinami is easily accessible by both Shinkansen and private car. Its high convenience, which accommodates the diverse travel styles of travelers, is another reason for its high ratings.

5-2. Things to note when making a reservation and the best season | What season is best to enjoy the hot spring water straight from the source?

参考：https://www.fujingaho.jp/travel/hotel/g46122995/onsen-award-yamagataza-takinami-231218/

Yamagataza Takinami is popular year-round thanks to its seasonal charms. It often fills up early, especially during peak season, so reservations are recommended two to three months in advance.

Akayu Onsen is an area rich in seasonal events, such as cherry picking, autumn foliage viewing, and snow-viewing hot springs. Takinami’s guest rooms are limited, and popular room types like those with open-air baths and special rooms are highly sought after, so planning early is recommended.

Spring: Early April to early May is the peak season for the cherry blossoms at Akayu Park and Eboshiyama Hachimangu Shrine. Reservations are high, along with spring mountain vegetable cuisine. Summer: Mid-June to July is a popular time for cherry picking, a Yamagata specialty. Family trips combining sightseeing and hot springs are on the rise. Autumn: October to November is the best time to enjoy the autumn leaves and hot springs. The nearby Momiji Park and Takahata Vineyards are also worth visiting.・[Winter]: From December to February, this hotel is popular with couples looking for an open-air bath with a view of the snow and warm, creative Japanese cuisine.

When booking, you should not only check the plan details, but also the cancellation policy (usually a fee applies if you cancel three days in advance) and your room type (open-air bath/indoor bath).

The best season will vary from person to person, but during popular seasons, early booking is consistently important. Once you have decided on your travel dates, we recommend checking room availability on the official website or travel booking site first.

5-3. Comparison of Rakuten, Ikyu, and official websites and reservation benefits

参考：https://www.oceans-dental-clinic.com/how-to-appoint/

Reservations for Yamagataza Takinami can be made through Rakuten Travel, Ikyu.com, or the official website, but each has its own unique perks and pricing structures. Choosing the right booking site for your needs will ensure a more satisfying and rewarding stay.

Travel booking sites are known for their point rewards and coupons, while the official website specializes in unique plans and lowest price guarantees. Offers, perks, and cancellation policies vary depending on the booking channel, so it’s important to compare options.

・Rakuten Travel: Earn and use Rakuten points, and take advantage of coupons and sales on days ending in 5 or 0. The effective discount rate can be very high on Rakuten Super DEAL days.

・Ikyu.com: Instant point discounts are available, and there are many high-class ryokans available for easy comparison. Time sales and Ikyu-exclusive late checkout benefits are also available.

・Official website: Lowest price guaranteed. A wide variety of unique plans are available, including anniversary plans, full courses with local ingredients and two meals included, and discounts for consecutive stays. Booking perks sometimes include in-house vouchers and room upgrades.

Choosing a booking channel based on your purpose, such as “I want to collect points,” “I want to stay at the lowest price,” or “I want something special,” can make a big difference to your trip satisfaction. We recommend first comparing availability and prices for the same conditions on three sites.

FAQ | Yamagataza Takinami Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1. What are check-in and check-out times?

A: Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM. If you plan to arrive after 6:00 PM, please contact us in advance. Late check-out benefits may be available depending on your plan.

Q2. Is there a shuttle service from Akayu Station?

A: Yes, we offer a free shuttle service from Akayu Station (reservations required). Shuttle service is available between 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM. You can also call us upon arrival. If you would like a shuttle service, please let us know when making your reservation.

Q3. Is Wi-Fi available throughout the building and in the guest rooms?

A: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building and in all rooms. The environment is ideal for teleworking and business use. The connection speed is stable, making it ideal for watching videos.

Q4. Is parking available? Is a reservation required?

A: There is free parking (30 spaces) on-site. Reservations are not required, and you can park before check-in or after check-out. Large vehicles and high-roof vehicles are also accommodated.

Q5. Do the rooms have open-air baths?

A: Some rooms come with an open-air bath with natural hot spring water. These are particularly popular, so we recommend booking early. When booking, please select a plan that specifically states “open-air bath included.”

Q6. Can you accommodate allergies or vegetarians?

A: We will do our best to accommodate. Please contact us at least three days in advance for allergy/vegetarian/vegan options. We can also customize creative Japanese courses using local ingredients.

Q7. Are there private baths or hot springs?

A: Yes, there is a private hot spring bath (for a fee) available exclusively to guests. Reservations must be made in advance in 45-minute increments. It is popular with couples and those seeking quiet time.

Q8. When do cancellation fees apply?

A: For standard plans, cancellation fees apply from three days in advance (30% three days in advance, 50% the day before, 100% on the day or without notice). However, these fees may vary depending on the plan, so be sure to check your reservation confirmation email.

Q9. Can you accommodate anniversaries and surprises?

A: Yes, we can accommodate surprise anniversaries such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries, and 60th birthday celebrations. We will do our best to accommodate requests such as cakes, bouquets, and message plates, so please let us know when you make your reservation.

Q10. Will snow affect access in winter?

A: The Akayu area is a snowy region, so we recommend carrying snow tires or snow chains in winter. However, you can avoid driving on snowy roads by using the free shuttle from Akayu Station. This is the safest time of year to travel by train.

Reference Links

・Yamagataza Takinami Official Website: https://takamiya-yamagatazan.com

・Rakuten Travel (Yamagataza Takinami): https://travel.rakuten.co.jp/HOTEL/154828/

・Ikyu.com (Yamagataza Takinami): https://www.ikyu.com/00002398/

・JR East Timetable Search: https://www.jreast-timetable.jp/

・Nanyo City Tourism Association: https://nanyoshi-kanko.jp

・Jalan.net (Akayu Onsen Accommodation List and Reviews): https://www.jalan.net/yad303264/

・Ministry of the Environment: “Survey on Hot Spring Usage and Hygiene Management”: https://www.env.go.jp/nature/onsen/index.html