Sendai, the vibrant capital of Miyagi Prefecture, is often praised for its blend of modern convenience and rich historical culture. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and coastlines, it’s also a perfect base for exploring traditional Japanese inns known as ryokans. Whether you’re staying in the Akiu and Sakunami hot spring areas or closer to Matsushima Bay, the region offers a variety of ryokans that deliver unforgettable hospitality, seasonal cuisine, and relaxing baths.
Here’s our curated selection of the best ryokans in and around Sendai. From luxury retreats to family-owned favorites, each one offers a unique experience grounded in tradition and local charm.
1. Ryokusuitei (Akiu Onsen)
Ryokusuitei is a serene and refined ryokan located in the heart of Akiu Onsen, just 30 minutes from downtown Sendai. This elegant property is surrounded by meticulously maintained Japanese gardens, and every room is designed to offer panoramic views of nature in all seasons.
Guests can enjoy large indoor and outdoor hot spring baths that draw water from the local natural source, famous for its healing qualities. The seasonal kaiseki meals are served in-room or in private dining spaces, featuring delicate flavors and stunning presentation. Ryokusuitei is ideal for travelers seeking peace, privacy, and an elevated traditional experience.
Book it Now: Ryokusuitei
2. TAOYA Akiu
TAOYA Akiu offers a modern, resort-style ryokan experience with all-inclusive service and breathtaking views of the Natori River. The spacious guest rooms combine Western comfort with Japanese elegance, and many include balconies overlooking the lush valley.
A highlight of the stay is the open-air onsen, where guests can relax under the stars while listening to the gentle flow of the river below. Meals are served buffet-style, offering a wide range of dishes that blend international and local flavors. TAOYA Akiu is perfect for couples or families looking for comfort, scenic beauty, and generous hospitality.
Book it Now: TAOYA Akiu
3. Akiu Fuga
Hidden deep in the forests of Akiu, Akiu Fuga is an adult-only retreat that emphasizes privacy, elegance, and modern design. Each room has a unique layout and includes both Western and Japanese elements, with some offering private outdoor hot spring baths surrounded by nature.
The tranquil atmosphere is complemented by sophisticated dining experiences, served in a quiet and intimate setting. Candlelit walkways, natural materials, and a refined aesthetic make this ryokan perfect for romantic getaways or solo travelers seeking solitude and reflection.
Book it Now: Akiu Fuga
4. Rantei Ryokan
Rantei Ryokan, also known as Akiu Rantei, is perched on a hillside overlooking the scenic Akiu valley. This expansive ryokan features multiple onsen baths, including panoramic outdoor baths that offer beautiful views year-round.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, some with tatami floors and private balconies. Meals are available in buffet or course-style, and the large-scale facilities include lounges, banquet halls, and a souvenir shop. This is a great option for groups, families, or travelers who want a full-service hot spring experience.
Book it Now: Rantei Ryokan
5. Sakunami Onsen Yuzukushi Salon Ichinobo
With over 100 years of history, Sakunami Onsen Yuzukushi Salon Ichinobo is a well-established ryokan located in the quiet and scenic Sakunami Onsen area. The atmosphere here is steeped in tradition, and the hospitality is graceful and attentive.
Rooms overlook a serene mountain stream and are beautifully furnished in classic Japanese style. Guests can relax in atmospheric indoor and outdoor baths, then enjoy elegant kaiseki meals that highlight Miyagi’s local bounty. It’s a destination for those who appreciate slow travel, seasonal flavors, and timeless hospitality.
Book it Now: Sakunami Onsen Yuzukushi Salon Ichinobo
6. Soraichi Ryokan (Sendai City)
Soraichi Ryokan is a humble, family-run inn located conveniently in central Sendai. It offers a genuine taste of traditional Japanese lodging in the heart of the city. Rooms are compact but well-kept, with tatami mats and low tables that reflect authentic ryokan style.
Guests often return for the warm service and convenient location, which allows easy access to the shopping arcades, cultural sites, and transport hubs. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who want an intimate, local experience without leaving the city.
Book it Now: Soraichi Ryokan
7. Hotel New Mitoya (Akiu Onsen)
Hotel New Mitoya is a lively and welcoming hot spring ryokan in Akiu Onsen. With multiple bath areas, including a large garden-view outdoor onsen, this property is perfect for guests who want to relax in nature while enjoying the comforts of a modern facility.
The ryokan offers both Western and Japanese rooms, along with entertainment such as karaoke rooms and traditional performances. Meals are served buffet-style or as multi-course dinners, depending on the plan. This is a family-friendly property that combines tradition with a sense of fun.
Book it Now: Hotel New Mitoya
8. Saryo Souen (Akiu Onsen)
Saryo Souen is a luxury ryokan that offers a deeply immersive cultural and aesthetic experience. Surrounded by pine trees and bamboo groves, this tranquil property features individual detached suites, many with their own private open-air baths.
The interiors reflect refined Japanese craftsmanship, and the kaiseki cuisine served here is among the most exquisite in the region. Every detail, from the ceramics to the lighting, has been curated with care. If you are celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply want to indulge, this is one of the best ryokans in the entire Tohoku region.
Book it Now: Saryo Souen
9. Komatsu-kan Kofutei (Matsushima)
Located in one of Japan’s most iconic scenic areas, Komatsu-kan Kofutei overlooks the pine-covered islands of Matsushima Bay. The ryokan offers a calm, coastal escape where you can enjoy sea breezes, open-air baths, and fresh seafood.
Rooms are airy and designed to highlight the bay views. Meals focus on local ingredients, especially oysters and seasonal fish, and are served with artistic flair. The onsen baths also face the ocean, making this a great destination for those seeking seaside serenity and visual beauty.
Book it Now: Komatsu-kan Kofutei
10. Matsushima Koumura
Matsushima Koumura is a cheerful, affordable ryokan within walking distance of the bay and historic temples like Zuigan-ji. The rooms are traditional and functional, making it ideal for casual travelers or families looking to explore Matsushima on a budget.
The property includes public baths, and guests can enjoy hearty Japanese breakfasts and dinners made with local ingredients. Staff are friendly and helpful with sightseeing advice. It’s a comfortable and convenient base for visiting one of Japan’s most picturesque regions.
Book it Now: Matsushima Koumura
11. Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Sohkan (Akiu Onsen)
Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Sohkan is a playful and spacious hot spring resort in Akiu, part of the popular Ooedo Onsen chain. Designed for families and group travelers, the ryokan features vibrant public baths, relaxation lounges, and arcade-style entertainment.
Rooms are clean and practical, and the buffet-style meals offer something for every palate. If you’re traveling with children or want a casual, social onsen experience, this is a lively and convenient option.
Book it Now: Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Premium Hotel Sokan
12. Ryokan Sanjiro (Zao Area)
Ryokan Sanjiro is located in the Zao mountain area, about an hour from Sendai, and offers rustic charm and access to therapeutic hot springs. The setting is quiet and deeply connected to nature, especially scenic during the snowy winter months.
Guests can enjoy open-air baths with forest views, as well as hearty mountain cuisine made with wild vegetables and local ingredients. The atmosphere is homey and sincere, making it a great choice for travelers looking to connect with the rural side of Tohoku.
Book it Now: Ryokan Sanjiro
Final Thoughts
Sendai and its surrounding areas are home to some of the most welcoming and diverse ryokan experiences in northern Japan. Whether you’re enjoying a luxurious retreat in Akiu Onsen, exploring the peaceful scenery of Sakunami, or dining on fresh seafood in Matsushima, each ryokan in this list offers its own take on Japanese hospitality.
Take the time to slow down, soak in the hot springs, and savor the region’s seasonal flavors. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, the ryokans of Sendai promise comfort, culture, and connection.
Explore more handpicked ryokans across Japan at Ryokans of Japan!
And if it’s your first time staying at a Japanese traditional inn, make sure you check out these articles on Ryokan Etiquette and Onsen Etiquette.
