Experiences

Ryokan Ohnuma
Ryokan Ohnuma is more than just a place to stay—it’s an invitation to unique and immersive experiences. Just steps away from the inn, our mountain lodge and tea house provide a serene setting for tea ceremonies, offering a profound connection to the spiritual essence of Japanese culture. Thanks to its convenient location, Ryokan Ohnuma also serves as an ideal base for exploring the Tohoku region’s major tourist attractions. Below, we introduce some of the experiences available at our inn. To discover the full charm of Ryokan Ohnuma—beyond our accommodations and hot springs—please don’t hesitate to contact us for more details!
The Japanese Tea Ceremony embodies the concept of “ichi-go ichi-e” (一期一会), meaning “one time, one meeting,” where each encounter is unique and unrepeatable. At Ryokan Ohnuma, you can begin your journey with a guided tour of Ryokuseian, a traditional four-and-a-half tatami mat tea house. Entering through the small doorway symbolizes the spirit of equality, transcending social status. This serene space offers a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and escape the everyday. Following the tour, our warm and experienced hostess will graciously welcome you with delicious matcha, offering a taste of Japanese tea culture in a casual and inviting setting at our mountain lodge.
Please note that due to the hostess’s age, some requests may not be accommodated for seasonal or health-related reasons.
This experience follows the Ryurei style, a modern tea ceremony approach where participants sit on chairs rather than in the traditional seiza position (proper sitting), ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
This experience is unavailable during winter.
For guests staying at least 2 nights and 3 days at Ryokan Ohnuma, we offer guided tours. Hop in our car and explore Tohoku’s tourist spots with our experienced guides!
Ginzan Onsen is a beautiful hot spring resort nestled in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, highly popular among foreign tourists. The appeal lies in its Taisho-era wooden inns lined along the riverside and the magical atmosphere created by the gas lamps illuminating the streets at night. Especially in winter, the snowy scenery adds a romantic, picture-perfect charm. Additionally, the resort offers public baths and foot baths, making it easy to experience Japanese onsen culture.
From Ryokan Ohnuma, Ginzan Onsen is approximately a 60-minute drive. A guided tour of around 2 hours is included.
Matsushima, one of Japan's Three Most Scenic Spots, is a stunning destination in Miyagi Prefecture. It features the breathtaking view of over 260 islands scattered across the bay, as well as its historical and cultural significance. Exploring historical landmarks such as Zuiganji Temple and Godaido Temple also provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s traditional culture.
From Ryokan Ohnuma, Matsushima is approximately an 80-minute drive. A guided tour of around 2 hours is included.
Narumi is a gift shop just a 3-minute walk from Ryokan Ohnuma. It is best known for its homemade chestnut buns and shiso maki—a small appetizer made by wrapping miso in shiso leaves and frying it. The recipe for the shiso maki has been passed down from the shop’s founder and has a history of nearly 100 years, offering a taste of local tradition.
Directly adjacent to Narumi, YON was established in 2023 by Kazuhiro Yusa, the fourth-generation owner of Narumi. The name "YON" stands for “Your Our Naruko” and is also pronounced like the Japanese word for “four,” symbolizing Kazuhiro’s role as the fourth-generation successor. Pair the café’s handmade cheesecake and chestnut matcha terrine with coffee, all prepared by Kazuhiro himself, for a truly delightful afternoon after a relaxing hot spring bath!
Kohana is a long-established soba noodle shop with over 100 years of history. Its signature dishes—Jidori Nanban Soba (hot soba noodles with local chicken and green onions) and Tenzaru Soba (cold soba noodles served with tempura)—are exceptionally delicious. The tempura includes a large, plump prawn that is satisfying and flavorful, making for a truly delightful meal.
Shibasaki is a butcher shop, but in addition to selling meats, it offers a variety of ready-made side dishes and bento boxes. Its signature item is the Shibasaki croquette, made with premium Sendai beef. Tender beef is wrapped in soft mashed potatoes and freshly fried to perfection, making it a perfect hot snack to enjoy while strolling through the Naruko Onsen town.
Tamagoya is a traditional dessert shop and café with over 100 years of history. The warabi-mochi served in each guest room at Ryokan Ohnuma is sourced from here. Owner Takeshi Miyamoto, who trained under a French chef, creates rich and delicious cream puffs. Another highly recommended treat is the “kuri monaka,” filled with large, sweet chestnuts—perfectly paired with coffee.
Naruko Onsen is one of the origins of Miyagi Prefecture’s traditional craft—kokeshi dolls—and Sakurai Kokeshi is a must-visit shop here. Currently run by sixth-generation craftsman Naomichi Sakurai, the shop offers a wide variety of kokeshi dolls, including both traditional styles and modern versions featuring contemporary elements and colors. Sakurai Kokeshi also provides a painting experience, allowing you to create a one-of-a-kind kokeshi that is uniquely yours.
Taki no Yu is an ancient hot spring with over a thousand years of history, attracting many onsen enthusiasts and beloved by Naruko Onsen locals. Its milky-white waters are known for their nourishing effects on the skin. With a cozy, rustic indoor space, Taki no Yu offers an authentic Japanese onsen experience. Purchase an entry ticket at the vending machine in front of the bath (¥300 for adults, ¥100 for children) to enjoy a relaxing soak.