Kumano-bettei Nakanoshima
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 140 reviews
Set on its own small island off the Kii Peninsula, Kumano-bettei Nakanoshima presents a calm, seaside stay reached by a brief ferry from the mainland. The property occupies two main wings and has been developed to balance modern comfort with traditional ryokan touches: tatami-floored sitting areas, futon sleeping arrangements, and rooms that open onto wide sea views. For travellers seeking a secluded spa experience, this ryokan with private onsen in Kumano offers a clear sense of place where waves and wind shape the day’s rhythm.
Bathing options include a prominent outdoor hot-spring terrace that faces the bay plus smaller indoor facilities; several room types and a new wing feature private open-air baths attached to the guest rooms, and there are reservable private onsen opportunities for those who prefer exclusivity. Meals focus on seasonally sourced coastal and regional produce presented in a multi-course kaiseki style in the dining spaces; some packages also allow for in-room or private dining arrangements. Facilities emphasize relaxation — a lounge, massage treatments, and places to enjoy the seascape at any hour.
Beyond the ryokan itself, the island has short walking trails and a lookout point that frames the rugged coastline, and the nearby coastline and shrines of the Kumano region make straightforward day excursions possible. Practical amenities reported by guests include shuttle and boat transfers provided by the property, accessible communal areas, and quiet, family-friendly accommodation. As a ryokan with private onsen in Wakayama, the property suits travellers seeking privacy, coastal scenery, and a program of local food and restorative bathing.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kumano-bettei Nakanoshima
Positive Reviews
Unique island location with sea views
Many guests praised the ryokan's private island setting, highlighting panoramic sea views from rooms, walks, and public areas that create a serene, memorable atmosphere.
Outstanding outdoor and private onsen
The outdoor onsen (and option to privatise baths) is repeatedly described as exceptional—magnificent ocean outlook, immaculate facilities and a standout feature of the stay.
Excellent meals and food experience
Dinner and breakfast were frequently called fantastic or the best ryokan meals guests have had, with thoughtful touches (complimentary snacks/drinks, ice cream) enhancing the dining experience.
Exceptional, attentive staff and service
Staff are repeatedly described as courteous, helpful and English-speaking when needed; many reviews note warm hospitality, detailed explanations and high-quality service throughout the stay.
Tranquil, high-quality facilities and atmosphere
Reviewers enjoyed the quiet, restorative environment, renovated rooms and spacious accommodations, plus extras like foot baths, massage chairs and well-maintained amenities that contribute to a luxury experience.
Negative Reviews
Dolphin pens visible / ethical concern
Multiple guests noted that dolphin enclosures or pens are visible from parts of the property (including some room views and the onsen area), which may be a deal-breaker for visitors concerned about marine animal captivity.
Remote location and transport logistics
The ryokan is relatively remote — reaching it can take several hours by public transport and requires a short boat transfer. Guests advise confirming the boat shuttle pickup location and schedule in advance.
Onsen access and limited amenities at times
Some reviewers mentioned onsen closures during midday hours, sparse onsen amenities in certain areas, and limited activities on the island, which can affect scheduling and expectations.
Occasional room issues and older wing condition
A few guests reported minor issues such as a cockroach sighting or stayed in older rooms that could benefit from renovation (e.g., tatami flooring updates), though many also said rooms were spotless.
Pricing, timing and food service notes
Several reviews flagged the stay as relatively expensive; others noted practical points like early dinner service times and limited pastry selections at breakfast that may not suit every traveller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary from small tatami rooms for couples to larger family-style rooms; capacity differs by room type, so select the room that matches your party and provide guest ages when booking.
Yes — the property has natural hot-spring public baths and open-air baths on site; note that some in-room open-air baths are not fed by the hot spring source.
Private/reservable baths are available; please request a reservation in advance either at booking or at reception on arrival.
Most guests travel via Kansai International Airport (KIX) or the regional Nanki-Shirahama Airport (SHM) and then continue by train or road to Kii‑Katsuura before using the hotel’s boat transfer from the Katsuura pier.
Yes — the ryokan runs a dedicated guest boat from the Katsuura waiting area (about a 5‑minute ride); boats run frequently during check-in times and the last boat departs around 23:00, so notify the hotel of late arrivals.
Staff offer basic English support and can assist with common requests; please communicate any dietary restrictions or special needs in advance when you book.
Meals are served in the hotel dining room and typically feature multi‑course Japanese (kaiseki) menus using local seafood and regional ingredients; special meal requests should be confirmed before arrival.
Main attractions include Nachi Waterfall and Nachi Kumano Taisha (about a 30‑minute drive from the pier), the Kii‑Katsuura fish market, local hot‑spring footbaths, and access to Kumano pilgrimage routes and tours.
Pets are not permitted on the island; for requests about exclusive use or private events, contact the ryokan directly to discuss availability and arrangements.
No — the island hosts only the ryokan, so basic shops and a fish market are on the mainland near Kii‑Katsuura station; plan to buy supplies before boarding the hotel boat or ask the ryokan for assistance.