Wakatake
8,4/10 Excellent - Based on 144 reviews
Wakatake is a compact, traditionally styled ryokan tucked into Katsuura on the coast of Wakayama; its location is notably close to the local train access and town centre, which makes it a practical base for exploring nearby beaches and coastal temples. The property presents a clearly Japanese atmosphere with tatami-floored guest rooms and futon bedding, and guests frequently highlight attentive, welcoming staff and straightforward, well-kept communal areas. Practical conveniences include free Wi‑Fi in public spaces and on-site parking, while the house rules emphasize a non-smoking environment.
Accommodation is centred on simple, traditional rooms that prioritise space and local character rather than modern luxury; many reviews and property descriptions note the comfort of the tatami layout and the option of multi-person futon arrangements. Meals are a focal point here: the ryokan serves regional seafood-based dinners—often featuring local tuna preparations—and an Asian-style breakfast, both prepared on site or arranged by the proprietors. The bathing facilities are a public onsen-style bath rather than private in-room tubs, and the hot-spring access is presented as an integral part of the stay for post-hike or post-sightseeing relaxation, making this a straightforward ryokan with onsen experience.
For travellers seeking a convenient stop when walking the coastal routes or visiting Nachi-Katsuura’s temples and beaches, Wakatake functions as a modest, well-located base with characterful hospitality and local cuisine on offer. Rooms and communal bathing suit guests who expect traditional ryokan routines—shared bathing spaces, tatami living and set meal times—rather than full-service resort amenities. As a practical note, the property is often recommended for its proximity to transport links and local sights, so it works well for short stays that combine coastal exploration with an accessible ryokan with onsen in Wakayama.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Wakatake
Positive Reviews
Excellent location by the train station
Many guests praised the ryokan's location directly across from the train station, making it extremely convenient for arrivals, departures and as a base for hiking (Kumano Kodo).
Friendly, helpful staff and service
Multiple reviews highlighted attentive, kind staff who assisted with luggage, returned forgotten items and provided good English support — contributing strongly to guests' positive experiences.
Traditional, clean and spacious Japanese rooms
Guests appreciated the authentic Japanese-style rooms with tatami and futon, often noting rooms were clean, spacious and included useful in-room amenities (washbasin, yukata/kimono, toiletries).
Excellent meals and local cuisine
Many reviewers raved about the multi-course dinners and traditional local dishes, describing the food as outstanding and a highlight of their stay; breakfast was also described as very good.
Good value and onsen access
Visitors frequently noted the ryokan offered good value for money — affordable rates, helpful amenities (coffee, parking where noted) — plus access to an onsen which guests found relaxing and restorative.
Negative Reviews
Small or limited onsen facilities
Several guests reported the onsen/bath was small for the number of guests, sometimes with only one small bath or shared bathing areas; a few mentioned the tub appeared old or water looked unclean at times.
Shared bathrooms and no en‑suite toilets
Many reviewers pointed out rooms lack private bathrooms: toilets and bathing facilities are communal (including mixed or shared arrangements), which may be inconvenient or uncomfortable for guests expecting en‑suite facilities.
Futon and bedding can be hard or thin
A number of guests found the futon mattresses thin or firmer than expected, making sleeping on the tatami floor uncomfortable for those with back issues or not used to floor bedding.
Noise from the nearby station
Some guests experienced noise problems — poor window soundproofing meant train noise was audible at night and daytime station announcements could be disruptive for light sleepers.
Older property limitations (no elevator, limited showers/luggage services)
Reviews mentioned practical drawbacks of an older building: no elevator for upper floors, limited shower options separate from the onsen, and lack of some services (e.g., direct hotel luggage shipping) which can be inconvenient for some travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with futons; standard options include 2-futon and 4-futon rooms and a larger 7-futon room. The property has about 14 rooms and a maximum capacity around 40 guests; extra beds and baby cots are not available.
Wakatake offers a hot spring (onsen) public bath for guests to use. The bath is shared rather than guaranteed private use, and guests should plan for communal access.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the ryokan is best reached by train via Kii-Katsuura Station, which is a very short walk from the property. For arrivals from nearby airports you should plan local transfers or trains to Kii-Katsuura.
The nearest airport is Nanki–Shirahama Airport, about 80–85 km away. Travelers typically transfer onward by local bus or train to Kii-Katsuura Station.
Staff are Japanese and the ryokan offers at least basic English assistance; menu and sake explanations are often provided in simple English. Guests report helpful, English-capable service but complex requests may require translation.
The ryokan serves an Asian-style breakfast and offers dinner featuring local seafood, especially tuna specialties and a selection of local sake; dinner often requires prior reservation. The dining is focused on regional ingredients and a traditional presentation.
Standard check-in is between 15:00 and 21:30 and check-out is in the morning (around 06:30–09:30). You are asked to indicate your expected arrival time in advance.
Wakatake sits directly across from Kii-Katsuura (Kii-Katsuura) Station — essentially a one-minute walk via the footbridge — making train travel very convenient. Local buses and taxis are also available from the station.
Pets are not permitted at the property and the entire accommodation is non-smoking. Service animals policies should be confirmed directly with the property if needed.
Local highlights include Fudarakusanji Temple (about 2.5 km) and Nachi Beach (roughly 1.5–2 km), with Taiji’s memorials a short drive away. The ryokan’s station-front location means restaurants, convenience stores and basic shops are within a short walk.