横川温泉湯殿ととのゆ
9,3/10 Exceptional - Based on 119 reviews
Set on the southern slopes of the Izu Peninsula near Shimoda in Shizuoka, 横川温泉湯殿ととのゆ is a compact, owner-run ryokan that pairs woodland seclusion with hot-spring bathing. The onsen here draws from Yokokawa Onsen, an alkaline simple spring (reported pH around 8.5–9.5) with a high source temperature; the inn describes the water as smooth and skin-softening, supplied directly from the source. Guest accommodation ranges from traditional tatami rooms with semi-open-air baths to a standalone annex designed as a private cottage, so visitors can expect a mix of minimal Japanese aesthetics and modern comfort.
Room types and facilities emphasize private bathing and self-contained stays: several rooms feature their own open-air baths, a superior twin offers an in-room sauna, and the detached annex includes a living-dining area, kitchen, Simmons beds, a semi-outdoor granite bath, a sauna hut, barbecue facilities and a small pool. The property operates a small café (limited opening days) and accepts day-trip hot-spring bookings when rooms are available. Practical amenities noted by the inn include free parking and complimentary Wi‑Fi, and service practices lean toward a low-intervention model with unmanned check-in to preserve privacy.
Quiet by design, this ryokan suits couples and families seeking private thermal bathing and a nature-focused retreat; a car is recommended for flexible access from coastal towns and train stations, with typical road transfers cited by local guides as under half an hour from nearby hub stations. The atmosphere is intimate rather than resort-scale, with an emphasis on seasonal views, source-flowing baths and a self-catered annex option that feels like renting a compact villa. For comparison-shopping across Japan, travelers sometimes search terms such as "ryokan with onsen Nagano" or "ryokan with private onsen Nagano" when evaluating private-bath experiences in different prefectures.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: 横川温泉湯殿ととのゆ
Positive Reviews
Peaceful, private natural setting
Many guests praise the location: secluded in the woods beside a creek, very quiet and ideal for relaxation or stargazing. Several reviewers highlight privacy and the restorative atmosphere away from busy cities.
Excellent bathing and wellness facilities
Private in-room onsen, saunas and hot tubs (and some villas with private pools) are repeatedly described as highlights — warm, clean and luxurious, often cited as the main reason guests linger at the property.
High‑quality, well‑designed accommodations
The buildings and rooms are frequently described as new, stylish and thoughtfully finished with quality materials and comfortable beds. Reviewers note good attention to detail in design and cleanliness.
Well equipped rooms and useful amenities
Rooms commonly include toiletries, hairdryers, coffee machine/espresso, kettle and tea, mini‑bar/fridge with drinks, extra chargers, Bluetooth speaker and kitchen basics. Guests appreciated these conveniences for a low‑stress stay.
Good breakfast and helpful owners/staff
Breakfast (Japanese or Western) is described as simple but delicious. Multiple reviews mention friendly, accommodating owners who assist with meals, taxis or other needs when required.
Negative Reviews
Remote location — car strongly recommended
Numerous guests warn the property is off the main routes and difficult to reach by foot or public transport. Bus stops are a long walk and taxis can be scarce or expensive, so a car (preferably small/nimble) is recommended.
Limited nearby dining and shopping options
There are few or no restaurants and grocery stores within a short distance. Several reviewers advise bringing supplies or planning meals in advance, especially if arriving late.
Additional fees/communication about services
At least one guest reported an unexpected extra charge for preparing the private pool (¥10,000) that was not clear at booking; reviewers recommend clearer pre‑arrival communication about paid extras.
Self check‑in issues and minimal on‑site staff
Some guests experienced problems with the self check‑in machine or found no staff on site, which caused confusion on arrival. While many found the contactless system fine, others found it stressful when technical issues occurred.
Minor maintenance, space and cleanliness concerns
A few reviews mention issues such as a noisy/squeaking shower valve, bathtub cleanliness concerns, occasional insects in the area, and smaller tatami rooms that can be tight with large suitcases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Main rooms are designed for 1–2 people; the detached annex/villa can accommodate larger groups (typically up to 6–7 people) depending on the room type — check the specific listing when booking.
Yes — the ryokan uses Yokokawa natural spring water (alkaline, pH ~8.5–9.5) and most rooms feature source-fed private baths; the annex and some room types also include private saunas.
There is no regular public airport shuttle listed; the property is in a rural area so a car or taxi is recommended — contact the ryokan directly to ask about any bespoke transfer arrangements.
The property provides an English-language website and many staff assist English-speaking guests, but Japanese is the primary language; contact the ryokan ahead if you need detailed English support.
Expect small-scale, traditional tatami rooms with in-room hot spring baths, optional barrel or cypress saunas, a quiet woodland setting, and simple continental or Asian breakfast options; check-in is designed to be smooth with an automated/unmanned system.
Local highlights include Shimoda Aquarium, Shirahama (White Sand) Beach, Perry Road, and Mount Omuro; most are a short drive away and suitable for day trips from the ryokan.
Yes, but public options are limited: take regional train/bus toward Shimoda and then a taxi is usually required to reach the ryokan; having a car makes visiting nearby sights much easier.
Standard check-in starts at 16:00; check-out is generally by 10:00 in summer/autumn and by 11:00 in spring/winter or for the annex — confirm exact times on your reservation.
Yes — the annex/villa can be reserved as a fully private unit and private day-use bathing slots are offered when rooms are free; phone reservations are recommended for private bookings.
Pets are not permitted. There are restaurants and convenience stores in the Shimoda area a short drive away, and guests often use a car or taxi to reach supermarkets and dining options.