Escape to a hidden sanctuary nestled amongst the rice paddies. My stay at Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrace in Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture, was nothing short of magical.
Exterior view of Suiden Terrace. The hotel reflects beautifully in the surrounding rice paddies.
Where Scandinavian Design Meets Japanese Aesthetics
Chosen as my base for exploring Mount Haguro, Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrace had long been on my radar. As I approached, its refined silhouette emerging from the rural landscape resembled an art museum floating on rice paddies.
Stepping inside, I was immediately enveloped in a sense of warmth, thanks to the extensive use of wood. The hotel seamlessly blends sophisticated Scandinavian design with traditional Japanese aesthetics. From the lobby to the guest rooms, every corner is picture-perfect – a true design hotel.
The rooms are simple yet functional, with large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields. A highlight was the library, a tranquil space filled with a curated selection of both Japanese and international books. Losing myself in a book here was a blissful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
The hotel library, a serene space for reading and relaxation.
A Culinary Delight: The Breakfast Buffet of Dreams
The breakfast buffet was a feast for the senses, showcasing the freshest local ingredients from Yamagata Prefecture. The local vegetable salad was particularly outstanding – bursting with natural flavors, it needed no dressing. A variety of regional dishes allowed me to fully immerse myself in Yamagata's culinary culture. With a diverse selection of both Japanese and Western options, even a long stay wouldn't feel repetitive.
A vibrant breakfast buffet featuring an abundance of local ingredients.
Rejuvenation with a View: Onsen and Sauna Experience
To soothe away travel fatigue, the onsen (hot spring bath) was a must. The open-air bath offers breathtaking views of the rice paddies, allowing for complete relaxation and a welcome escape from daily stress. For sauna enthusiasts, a proper sauna is also available. I enjoyed pouring water on the hot stones (self-service löyly) and cooling down in the cold plunge pool before relaxing in the outdoor seating area, admiring the rice paddy vista and achieving that perfect "*totonou*" state of blissful equilibrium.
The outdoor onsen, offering relaxing views of the rice paddies.
Sauna Details:
- Self-Service Löyly: Enhance relaxation with aromatic water!
- Cold Plunge Pool: Perfect for cooling down after the sauna.
- Outdoor Relaxation Area: Refresh yourself in an open and unrestricted space.
Convenient Access to Mount Haguro
Mount Haguro is just a 20-minute drive away. A luxurious experience would be hiking the mountain in the early morning and returning to the hotel for a soak in the onsen. With many attractions nearby, it serves as an ideal base for exploring Tsuruoka.
The scenery of Mount Haguro, evoking a sense of solemn grandeur.
Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrace is Perfect For:
- Those seeking relaxation and an escape from the everyday.
- Those interested in architecture and design.
- Those who want to rejuvenate their mind and body in the sauna.
- Those who want to enjoy delicious cuisine made with local ingredients.
- Those who want to explore Tsuruoka, including Mount Haguro.
In Conclusion
Shonai Hotel Suiden Terrace is a truly special place, a hidden gem amidst the rice paddies. With its beautiful architecture, cuisine featuring local ingredients, and relaxing onsen and sauna, it offers a sensory experience of Tsuruoka's charm. I urge you to visit and experience this wonder for yourself.
