竹泉荘 Chikusenso Onsen

In short: it's an absolutely fantastic onsen.
We had a wonderful time from start to finish, even decided to add an extra night because I didn't want to leave after just two nights.
Everything is of an extremely high standard, be it the fantastic food or the impeccable service and incredibly warm welcome from all members of staff..

Very special thanks to Koji Aihara-san and Yukihiro Sato-san and also the young trainee whose name I didn't catch for making our time at Chikusenso truly unforgettable!

The rooms, grounds and baths are obviously very nice and the pictures on booking are accurate.

We will definitely come back!

What could be improved: -

It was an amazing stay at 竹泉荘 Chikusenso Onsen. Everything was perfect: spacious room with all amenties that you need, super friendly and helpful staff, beautifully designed lounges and relaxing onsen! The hotel also offers transfer from Sendai station and transportation in the neighbourhood.
Additionally I highly recommend to reserve dinner - the food was not only delicious but served beautifully. It is a really marvellous experience.

What could be improved: Nothing serious, maybe the WiFi could be a bit stronger

I started grinning like a fool as soon as I entered the grounds of Chikusenso. It is everything the pictures show and so, so much more. I was genuinely too delighted to play it cool.
A truly beautiful property complete with a river and at least two waterfalls (the grounds are huge, so I can't be sure there aren't more).
Inside the premises are just elegant with unique touches like the enormous replica temple bell in the guest lounge. There are 'public'/shared onsen and for the bashful there are also two lovely private onsen to choose from, where the pools are outside so you can hear the river.
But it is the staff who elevate this unique and beautiful place to 'exceptional'. Mr Rajan who welcomed me so warmly on arrival and explained the myriad of amenities and services so perfectly. Mr Li, who explained the property's long history and more recent impressive architectural upgrade with such enthusiasm and whose admiration for the local environment almost persuaded me to go hiking. Michiko, in the restaurant who was so warm and sweet she made me feel like I was staying in her own home and her charming colleague who made me a perfect little chair from a champagne wire. I wish I could name all the staff because without exception, they were all wonderful; kind and attentive without ever intruding.
Speaking of the restaurant, make sure you have breakfast and dinner there. Over three days the variety and finesse shown by the chef was spectacular. Sitting at the 'chef's table' let me watch the man in action, and it was a masterclass in calm precision in the kitchen.
I left this morning and I am already giving serious thought to coming back in January...what more can I say.

What could be improved: Leaving