THE YUKAWA Ushers in Extraordinary, Timeless Stays Spun by Long-loved Ryokan Brand.

THE YUKAWA Ushers in Extraordinary, Timeless Stays Spun by Long-loved Ryokan Brand.

Last update :
Written by GOOD LUCK TRIP
Head Editor : Yunushi Ichijoh

The setting is Kamasaki Onsen, a highly acclaimed hot springs destination even among many in the Tohoku region. The springs here in Shiroishi City, Miyagi Prefecture offer the 6 centuries-old heritage of healing springs in a brand-new chapter opened September 2025.
Enter the stage, THE YUKAWA, a resort hotel and natural retreat in suspended time that opens as the latest exclusive by veteran inn Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh.
A journey here offers true escape from city woes and a return to self via the luxury of doing nothing.
Keep scrolling to see what’s all the buzz around THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch.

Two Things to Love from THE YUKAWA

The YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch is a brand-new resort hotel designed with the warm ease of true comfort in mind.
Here are two main draws that bring guests to THE YUKAWA.

Entrance view at THE YUKAWA
Entrance view at THE YUKAWA

1. All-Suite Rooms Along the Yukawa River

Each room is furnished as a full suite with impeccable river views and private ensuite open-air bath that faces the burbling whispers of the Yukawa River.
Soak in serenade by the property’s namesake as the green arbor offers a melted moment for the mind.
All elements here point to a deeper connection in body and soul that resurface when letting go of the everyday.

En-suite open-air baths in every room filled with direct spring waters.
En-suite open-air baths in every room filled with direct spring waters.

Peek around the interior furnishings to find wonderfully custom-made accents including furniture, rugs and curtains. Each piece is stylized even down to the chair angle, arms and legs to evoke a sense of effortless ease from the moment you step in.

Riverview YUKAWA Suite
Riverview YUKAWA Suite

The room amenities are hand-picked by the brand’s proprietress after personally checking each item. Her personal touches include a love for the minute after journeying alongside the president to view and study different inns across Japan.

2. A New Spin on Relaxing Stays Launched by Esteemed, Six-Centuries Old Ryokan Brand

THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch is a new inn stemmed in the age-old history of Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh, or “The Inn of the Sounds of Time” that’s run since 1560.
Kamasaki Onsen is a hot springs destination found in 1428.
The legend here dates back to Ichibei Nagayoshi Ichijoh, a nobleman who arrived at the area of Kamasaki Onsen after his defeat in the Battle of Okehazama. Ichijoh invested his personal funds into the land and restored the hot springs that had been devastated by flood, thus launching the Ichijoh brand.

600 years of excellence at Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh
600 years of excellence at Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh

As the onsen waters sprung up again a heat took over the town against with hot spring enthusiasts who came in search of its remedy. This hubbub gave way to Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh, the Inn of the Sound of Time and the long heritage of people who visit to soothe their wear and aches.

Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh’s 20th Generation & Current Owner Ippei Ichijoh
Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh’s 20th Generation & Current Owner Ippei Ichijoh

This welcome spirit is the same tradition that’s led to the opening of THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch. With some 6 centuries of long-loved history at its back, the property evokes a new sense of modern, elevated bliss.

Inner garden at THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch
Inner garden at THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch

Curated stays in comfort for a time that’s anything but ordinary.

The Lore behind THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch

Just inside the entrance sits a wooden entryway etched with the name of the former Ryokan Ichijoh. Here’s a look into the story behind the “Ichijoh Branch” name.

The wooden walkway at the front entrance transferred from Ryokan Ichijoh
The wooden walkway at the front entrance transferred from Ryokan Ichijoh

Before the age of personal cars, the standard way to reach Kamasaki Onsen, a historic Japanese hot spring town, was to stay overnight near JR Shiroishi Station and continue the journey by horse-drawn carriage the following morning.
The predecessor of Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh, the renowned traditional ryokan, was no exception. In its early days as Ryokan Ichijoh Main Branch, it operated a branch office right in front of JR Shiroishi Station, where travelers would first spend the night before heading onward to the main inn.

The Ryokan Ichijoh Honten door sign hanging at Yunushi Ichijoh today.
The Ryokan Ichijoh Honten door sign hanging at Yunushi Ichijoh today.

As personal cars become the standard the Ichijoh Branch stopover spot by the station ebbed to its closing day some 30 years ago.
This train station-facing branch stayed open until the very end, which is why the former walkway door was saved by the locals.

Almost 600 years of ushering countless travelers in over at the main Ichijoh inn.
Almost 600 years of ushering countless travelers in over at the main Ichijoh inn.

That same front doorway now sits in the front entrance of THE YUKAWA. The “Ichijoh Branch” is a restored part of the brand’s heritage, standing in homage to the many years the former Ichijoh Branch remained the welcoming gateway to an Ichijoh stay.

How to Get to THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch

Use a bullet train to travel fast with an unbeatable view, or make your way in by personal car for a more relaxed journey.

Free shuttles are available from both JR Shiroishizao Station and Shiroishi Station on JR Tohoku Main Line.
Free shuttles are available from both JR Shiroishizao Station and Shiroishi Station on JR Tohoku Main Line.

・From Tokyo

By Shinkansen bullet train, the journey from JR Tokyo Station to JR Shiroishizao Station takes about 2 hours. From JR Shiroishizao, a free shuttle service will bring you to the property in approximately 20 minutes.
For those traveling by car, it takes around 5 hours from central Tokyo via the expressway to reach Shiroishi IC, and from there it is only about a 15-minute drive to the destination.

・From Sendai

By Shinkansen bullet train, it takes only about 13 minutes from JR Sendai Station to JR Shiroishizao Station. From JR Shiroishizao, a free shuttle bus is available and will take you to the property in around 20 minutes.
If you are driving, the trip from Sendai Miyagi IC to Shiroishi IC takes about 27 minutes, and from Shiroishi IC it is just another 15 minutes to your destination.

6 Main Draws at THE YUKAWA

THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch is the full package for relaxing rooms, impeccable views, soothing hot springs and mouthwatering food. Here are six standout reasons to love your stay.

1. Every Room’s a Suite Room with Views towards Yukawa River

The full privacy of a luxury suite room is what you’ll get at every room at THE YUKAWA. All eyes are on the property’s namesake with wide open views facing the Yukawa River and the soft song of nature seeping in.

River View Suite Room
River View Suite Room

River View Suites boast a 4-meter towering ceiling.
The heightened views pull the green wash of trees up into the skies for a deeply immersive sense of green retreat. Garden sofas await on the terrace just outside making for an ideal perch to lay back or catch up on a favorite book.

On the top floor you’ll find the River View Panorama Suite with sprawling terrace and the largest space for relaxing at the River View YUKAWA suite.
The YUKAWA Suite is highly coveted for its mega-sized windows that nearly bend the view of greenery into a painting.

The scenery out from the River View Panorama Suite Room
The scenery out from the River View Panorama Suite Room
En-suite open-air bath hugged by a canopy of trees
En-suite open-air bath hugged by a canopy of trees

Each room is furnished with an ensuite open-air bath.
Take to the heated spring waters and rediscover the joy of simply gazing out over trees and blue skies. A planned trip to tourist destinations is always a thrill, but this particular taste of do-nothing luxury you’re bound for sophisticated bliss.

2. Direct-Source Spring Waters in the Entire Property & Exclusive Private Baths to Book

With the construction of the THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch, a brand-new hot spring source, the Yukawa Onsen, was excavated.
A detailed analysis revealed that its mineral composition is nearly identical to the historic Kamasaki no Yu, the 600-year-old healing spring of Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh.
Here, guests can fully indulge in the legendary Ouu Remedy Springs, known since ancient times for soothing wounds and fatigue, offered in the purest form of natural free-flowing hot spring waters-a true luxury onsen experience in Japan.

Pampered touch at the spacious bathroom vanity
Pampered touch at the spacious bathroom vanity

Step onto the sprawling terrace for a dip upto the neck in the hot springs bath that feels like sinking into the forest.
Slowly close your eyes, take a breath, and take in the surrounding nature with all 5 senses.

Open-air private cabana even closer to the Yukawa River.
Open-air private cabana even closer to the Yukawa River.

In addition, along the banks of the Yukawa River, the property offers an exclusive private open-air bath available only for staying guests.
The amenities in the private hot spring are carefully selected Miyagi-made products, personally chosen and used daily by the proprietress, ensuring an authentic touch of Japanese hospitality.

Hair and body care infused with local remedies from Miyagi Prefecture
Hair and body care infused with local remedies from Miyagi Prefecture

"Ten-nen Kaiki - Feel Organic -" is one brand you’ll notice on hand that’s trusted for its socially conscious manufacturing, like using essential oils distilled in-house from Miyagi-grown thinned cedar wood.
Each bottle is finished with 100% natural oils and no synthetic fragrances.
Treat your skin to the supple gifts of nature and watch your daily woes slip away.

3. A Banquet Delight of Miyagi’s Top Tastes

The food variety at THE YUKAWA is a tremendous draw for guests.
The head chef keeps a keen eye on the freshest local fare.
Starting in Shiroishi City and working out across Miyagi Prefecture, the menu presents a curated kaleidoscope of fresh seafood, mountain produce and more, all served in tasteful methods that fuel the body and tantalize the tongue.

A dinner with all the trappings of exquisite Miyagi-style ingredients.
A dinner with all the trappings of exquisite Miyagi-style ingredients.

The steak used here is a rare variety of Miyagi beef.
Sink your teeth in for a delightful bite of balanced sweet and fat like never before.

A day started off right with a tastefully fueled breakfast.
A day started off right with a tastefully fueled breakfast.

Even breakfast is a feast of local fare.
Keep an eye out specifically for the Goko-ran “Emperor” Egg from Oeda Farm in Kakuda City.
Food fans know this treat for their sturdier shell and velvety rich yolk, imparting a highly nutritious protein that’s rich in antioxidant astaxanthin.
Take the Japanese route and try a tamago-kakegohan over rice, or try something western like eggs benedict or an omelette.

Basking in true luxury w/ breakfast on the open terrace.
Basking in true luxury w/ breakfast on the open terrace.

The chef says the inspiration behind each dish is a palette that lets you “Journey the lands of Miyagi Prefecture by taste”.
Take a seat for unbeatable rare tastes via private dining on your terrace, dredged in the hug of nature all around.

4. Artisan Drinks Stylized by an Expert Bartender

Top off your post-dinner glow with sophisticated down time at the bar.
Dampened lights and light clinking of glass are the hushed accents in this quiet haven.
No matter what your mood, you’re in for a special glass made to taste by an expert barkeep.

Luxe bartop made from a single piece of Sapele wood.
Luxe bartop made from a single piece of Sapele wood.

The bar offers a wide selection, from wine and whisky to fruit liqueurs and craft spirits.
Part of the joy is in taking your time to decide which one to try.
As you reflect on the day and slowly savor each sip, the moment becomes a lasting memory of your journey.

Have another glass alongside a chat with the expert bartender
Have another glass alongside a chat with the expert bartender

The lounge space just next door is open 24-hours to enjoy a welcome drink or light bite.
There’s even soft drinks and varied sweets for any time you’re in the mood.
Enjoy moments the way you want them in this multi-faceted escape.

5. Total Body Reset via Fully Original, Curated Massage

Truly easing the mind means a chance to relax the body, too.
Step into a room of rejuvenation over at the Aesthetic Salon and treat your aches and wears to a fully original, personalized treatment provided by the extensively trained massage therapist.

Find yourself again with renewed body and mind
Find yourself again with renewed body and mind

Treatment begins by launching into a careful assessment of your personal condition.
Your massage starts with a tailored approach to your concerns and desires, followed by the therapist’s expert touch to identify areas of targeted tension.
In business for several decades, the expert therapist is a professional of “reading the body”, evoking a sense of melted ease like never said before.
The utmost in full relaxation and released body tension from head to toe as soon as you begin.

A treatment personalized just to you
A treatment personalized just to you

Jojoba is the select oil used to best mimic the natural oils of the skin.
Gentle on the skin, this special choice means you can enjoy the long benefits of oil even after stepping in the bath.
Final touches include a head massage to whisk away your worries and provide ultimate lightness from the bottom up.

6. Slip into Worlds Away with a Mutiple-Night Stay

One of the highlights of staying multiple nights at THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch is the exclusive option to enjoy your evening meal at the private dining restaurant of Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh, a historic luxury ryokan with over 600 years of tradition.

Dining terrace at THE YUKAWA
Dining terrace at THE YUKAWA

Dining experiences at THE YUKAWA are available in the private terraces attached to each room.
Serenaded by burbling river and birdsong, this tasteful moment offers a chance to activate all five senses while sitting against a backdrop of season beauty.

Private banquet room at The Inn of the Sound of Time
Private banquet room at The Inn of the Sound of Time

Dining at Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh is held in the private dining room, a centuries-old historic space in Taisho era style that’s hard to recreate but chic and dignified to this day.

A space paused in style for a century.
A space paused in style for a century.

Spend your first dinner at THE YUKAWA before dining at Tokine no Yado Yunushi Ichijoh the next day for a sense of suspending in the classic days of the Taisho era.

Make the Most of your Stay at THE YUKAWA

Below is a curated sample look at how to spend an unforgettable time at THE YUKAWA Ichijoh Branch.
Treat yourself to the true luxury of doing virtually nothing during your rejuvenating stay at THE YUKAWA.

Day 1 Decadent Welcome as you Slip into The Extraordinary

3:00 PM
A moment of recharge immediately upon check-in at the private open-air bath cabana
4:00 PM
Unwind with a massage
6:00 PM
A private feast at dinner
9:00 PM
An artisan toast at the bar

Day 2 Reset the body and Mind in the Embrace of Green Trees and a Burbling River

7:00 AM
Breakfast on the terrace serenaded by birdsong
9:00 AM
Refresh with a morning soak in your room’s ensuite bath
10:00 AM
Bask in slow time on your room terrace
11:00 AM
Checkout

Wrap-Up

Treat your body and soul to a time away in nature that’s nothing but ordinary.
THE YUKAWA was designed exclusively to melt away your weary woes in a space where adults can truly unwind. Embrace the ancestry of true ease and comfort in a time to rediscover your core self.
Step into a journey of true surrender needing nothing more and nothing less.