Matsushima Onsen Matsushima Ichinobo

This was my third visit. On my previous two stays, I enjoyed sweeping views from the room of Matsushima’s vivid blue sea under a crystal-clear sky. This time, however, it rained throughout my 2-night, 3-day stay, and the sea was veiled in white mist; seeing the forecast the day before left me feeling down.Still, while the view outside the window didn’t meet my hopes, I was able to truly savor my time inside the Hotel instead.Sinking into the slightly hot, silky Onsen, I could feel everyday fatigue quietly melt away to the gentle sound of rain. Above all, the staff’s thoughtful and warm hospitality turned a rainy stay into something genuinely comforting. Please accept my heartfelt thanks.Meals are served buffet-style with live cooking finished right in front of you by the chef. Amidst the sizzling sounds and enticing aromas, it was a special luxury to enjoy each dish at its freshest and most delicious. Thanks to the all-inclusive plan, I could pair wine, beer, shochu, highballs, and sake with each course without worrying about extra charges—an absolutely blissful experience.Regardless of the weather, this Hotel’s high-quality Onsen and dining—along with its staff’s sincere dedication to guests—ensure a deeply satisfying stay. I can wholeheartedly recommend it.I’m already looking forward to returning and seeing what kind of Matsushima awaits next time.

I splurged and stayed for two nights, and it became a wonderful memory. The scenery in Matsushima was lovely, but it honestly felt like “Matsushima = staying at this Accommodation.”The made-to-order buffet was unbelievable—each dish was like a course-restaurant plate, yet you can eat as much of your favorites as you want. Best of all, I didn’t have to force myself to eat things I can’t handle (I don’t eat meat). It felt like a dream. The alcoholic drinks and the many non-alcohol options were all excellent—everything was delicious.What impressed me most was the chefs’ beautiful craftsmanship right in front of us. Being able to watch that up close—and even exchange a few words—was such a treat. The dining venue itself was spacious and stunning; it also felt dreamlike.Dinner highlights: the first course soup, grilled conger eel, sashimi, sea bream and ginger rice cooked in broth, and plenty of sake options that suited my taste—all delicious. Breakfast highlights: bonito rice with its paired dashi broth, miso soup, spinach ohitashi… even the pickles were great. Having freshly brewed coffee was another luxury (and watching it being prepared so elegantly).The Onsen was incredibly relaxing. There are two large public baths—and even a stone sauna? Too luxurious. The open-air bath is wonderfully spacious, and the view over Matsushima from there is outstanding. Above all, the water itself felt amazing; no matter how many times I soaked, it always felt perfect.I have no idea when they manage to clean such a large Accommodation—it was spotless throughout. The Room was gorgeous (almost comically spacious), and the view from it was incredible. I took a sightseeing boat tour too, but honestly the view from here alone might have been enough—it felt like staring at a painting.The lounge is also large and extremely well stocked: coffee (they make iced coffee right in front of you), alcohol, snacks, cookies (sometimes served warm—freshly baked?), gateau chocolate cake, gelato… everything you could want. With lots of big sofas, it’s exactly what a lounge should be—I could truly relax there. And you can take lounge food and drinks back to your Room.At night we enjoyed cocktails (including non-alcohol options) while listening to live music; there’s even an artificial fire feature—it really felt indulgent.I’m glad we stayed two nights; one night wouldn’t be enough to fully enjoy everything. It’s definitely a high-end Accommodation, but the staff were warm and unpretentious—which made it even better. They’re so discreet you barely notice them until you need something—and then they respond immediately with great carefulness.The Shuttle Service was also excellent overall—another great memory for us.