This is our review of Urabandai Lake Resort: Goshiki-no-Mori Nekoma Rikyu (Maps), visited in February 2026.
If you’re dreaming of a romantic winter getaway in Japan, surrounded by glittering snow and peaceful lake views, Urabandai Lake Resort: Goshiki-no-Mori Nekoma Rikyu (裏磐梯レイクリゾート 迎賓館 猫魔離宮) in Fukushima Prefecture offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and scenic beauty. My one-night, two-day stay in their Penthouse Double Room was nothing short of magical.
The Scenic Drive to Wintertime Urabandai
On a bright February morning, I set out from the Inawashiro Bandai Kogen IC, a 25-minute drive to Urabandai. The snow-covered landscape grew more enchanting by the minute, with Mount Bandai appearing like a white giant in the distance. Along the roadside, fields blanketed in snow and local anglers ice-fishing painted an idyllic winter scene.
Perched 800 meters above sea level, Nekoma Rikyu overlooks Lake Hibara, offering regal architecture and world-class hospitality. Though the hotel runs a free shuttle from Inawashiro Station, a winter road trip through this snowy wonderland is an experience in itself.
Arrival: European Luxury in the Heart of Fukushima
Stepping into the grand lobby, I was greeted by a golden chariot reminiscent of the First Emperor and lavish European-style furnishings. The warm hospitality instantly melted away travel fatigue. In winter, the hush of Urabandai’s deep snow enhances the luxury—every sound softened, every moment serene.
Penthouse Double: A Private Winter Sanctuary
My Penthouse Double Room on the top floor spanned a generous 34 square meters, complete with a panoramic window view of Lake Hibara. The décor blended classic elegance with comfort—fluffy down bedding, soft lighting, and richly detailed interiors that made the room feel like a private palace.
The room offered a coffee maker, a full set of amenities, and silky-soft yukata robes. The heating worked perfectly, and sitting by the window on the sofa watching the snow felt healing. As night fell, the gentle lighting turned the room into a warm, romantic hideaway. This room is truly a hidden gem of Nekoma Rikyu—ideal for couples.
Snow-View Hot Springs: The Heart of Relaxation
After checking in, I made my way to the exclusive Niji-no-Mori Onsen, available only to Nekoma Rikyu guests. This natural hot spring in Urabandai is rich in metasilicic acid, famed for its skin-beautifying properties.
The indoor bath, lined with marble, offered soaring views of the snow through its massive windows. Outside, the open-air rotenburo surrounded by snow delivered ultimate bliss. The contrast between steamy water and crisp air was mesmerizing, while the private stone tub added an intimate touch. Soaking in the open-air bath while gazing toward the snow-covered mountains felt like every ounce of tension was melting away. There’s also an Aomori Hiba private bath you can reserve—the aroma alone soothes the soul.
Even late at night, the onsen stays open, allowing you to bathe under a snowy starry sky. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day in the cold.
Dinner: A Buffet of Fukushima Flavors
Dinner was a highlight—“The Colors of Fukushima” buffet offered over 50 Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes. The live kitchen featured fresh sushi and crispy tempura made to order. Favorites like Aizu’s horse sashimi, local snow greens, and wild mushroom dishes paired wonderfully with regional sake.
Seated by the window, I savored the sight of snow falling over Lake Hibara’s shimmering night view—an adventure for all the senses.
Evening Leisure and Night Views
Post-dinner, I explored the lobby’s art gallery-like collection of bronze sculptures and fashion sketches. The indoor play zone offered billiards, darts, ping pong, and even a virtual golf simulator—making it easy to balance elegance with a bit of fun.
Before turning in, I visited the panoramic lounge. The stars reflected in the frozen lake as I rocked gently in a cradle chair, wrapped in total calm. Back in my room, snowflakes drifted down outside as I fell asleep in the warmth of a fluffy bed—a night of peace I’ll never forget.
Breakfast: Classic Japanese-Western Delights
Morning brought another feast—a Japanese-Western breakfast buffet crafted with precision and love. Freshly baked bread, fluffy scrambled eggs, and Kitakata’s famous “Morning Ramen” warmed me from within.
The menu included fluffy French toast, pancakes with maple syrup, local yogurt, grilled fish, and crisp salads. With a coffee in hand and snow-filled views outside the window, it was the perfect start to a serene winter day in Urabandai.
At the souvenir shop, I browsed over 2,000 local products, including Urabandai-exclusive sweets, salt and sake. With 350 parking spaces and free use, it’s perfect for winter road trippers.
Post-Checkout Tea Time at Urabandai Café
Before heading home, I stopped at the Urabandai Café inside the resort—a cozy space overlooking Lake Hibara. The roast beef sandwich was perfectly juicy and warm, while the burdock and chicken quiche offered earthy flavors wrapped in flaky pastry.
The café’s signature Yamashio Milk Tea—a slight hint of salt enhancing creamy milk—was the perfect winter companion. Watching the snow-covered Mount Bandai from a soft sofa, I felt time slow down. This café is a must-visit for couples seeking a quiet, heartwarming moment after checkout.
Snowshoe Adventure: Yellow Fall & Mount Bandai Geo Tour
In the afternoon, I joined the Yellow Fall & Mount Bandai Geotour, organized by Haregasaya Activities—a limited seasonal snowshoe tour exploring the mountain’s eruption history.
Starting at the Urabandai Ski Resort ticket counter, our guide led a small group on a 3 km circular route through forests and crater walls shaped by the 1888 eruption. We discovered bear claw marks, bubbling fumaroles, and frozen lava beds under fresh snow.
The tour’s highlight was Yellow Fall, a golden ice cascade formed by minerals seeping from the crater wall—an awe-inspiring sight unique to winter. As the sun hit the ice, it glowed like crystal amber against a backdrop of white snow and volcanic smoke.
Ending around 3:40 p.m., everyone wore the same satisfied smile—grateful for the beauty of Fukushima’s winter nature. For those seeking active winter experiences in Japan, this half-day trek is a must.
Why Nekoma Rikyu Is the Ultimate Winter Retreat in Fukushima
From the snow-view onsen and luxury penthouse rooms to local gourmet dining and easy access to nature, Urabandai Lake Resort: Goshiki-no-Mori Nekoma Rikyu combines elegance with relaxation.
Whether you’re a couple looking for romance, a food lover chasing flavor, or an explorer yearning for snowy adventures, this resort delivers it all. After my unforgettable stay, one thing is certain—I’ll be back next winter for another taste of Urabandai’s peaceful magic.
