Plaza Awajishima
8,3/10 Excellent - Based on 124 reviews
Perched on a cliff above the Naruto Strait, Plaza Awajishima is a seafront resort on Awaji Island combining Western comforts and Japanese hospitality. The property offers 70 rooms in multiple categories, from renovated high-floor western rooms to the SOLA Villa collection; all guest rooms face the sea and many include terraces or panoramic baths. Several SOLA Villa suites feature open-air baths that serve as private bathing retreats, a configuration that contributes to its reputation as a ryokan with onsen Hyōgo.
The spa complex centers on natural hot springs sourced on-site: the Minami Awaji Onsen open-air facility and the indoor Shiozaki “beautifying” onsen, with water types described as sulfur-rich calcium/sodium chloride and alkaline sodium hydrogen carbonate respectively; operating hours cover early morning and late-evening soak times. On-site wellness amenities include a sauna, professional Asian-style relaxation treatments and a reservation-only barrier-free family bath. Certain suite categories explicitly advertise open-air onsen, so select rooms function as a ryokan with private onsen Hyōgo for guests seeking seclusion and sea views.
Dining is anchored by two restaurants that emphasize locally caught seafood and multi-course presentations, supported by a sunlit tea lounge and an outdoor terrace overlooking the Onaruto Bridge. Seasonal outdoor facilities include a summer pool, while practical services cover 24-hour reception, accessible guest rooms and on-site parking; shuttle links and directions are provided for regional access. The hotel suits travellers who prioritize coastal panoramas, thermal bathing and accessible resort amenities in a hilltop seaside setting rather than urban proximity.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Plaza Awajishima
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen and bathing facilities
Multiple guests praised the onsen and baths as clean, relaxing and well maintained; reviewers mentioned enjoyable indoor/outdoor baths, tea provided after bathing and a pleasant atmosphere for unwinding.
Stunning views and location setting
Many reviews highlighted beautiful ocean/bridge/whirlpool views from rooms and the baths, noting memorable sunsets, sunrises and overall dramatic scenery that enhanced their stay.
Attentive, courteous staff and service
Staff were repeatedly described as friendly, prompt and thoughtful—examples include proactive help with luggage/parking, reception manager’s service during the stay, and special attention for celebrations which guests found very touching.
Generous, tasty breakfast and dining highlights
Breakfast buffets received frequent praise for wide variety and tasty local dishes (notably island onion items), with comfortable dining spaces; several guests also praised the quality of kaiseki dinner when taken.
Good family‑friendly facilities and comfortable rooms
Guests noted spacious, clean rooms suitable for families (including adjacent rooms when requested), a pleasant pool for summer use and overall hospitality that made family stays easy and enjoyable.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited nearby dining
Multiple guests found the hotel quite far from town with few nearby restaurants; visitors advised bringing dinner plans or dining at the hotel and noted some uphill/curvy roads to reach the property which can be inconvenient, especially at night.
Onsen access timing and cleaning practices
Some guests experienced onsen closures or cleaning that started earlier than expected (including being refused use of facilities shortly before posted closing), causing frustration for those hoping to bathe late.
Lack of onsite conveniences
Visitors mentioned the absence of vending machines and coin‑laundry facilities and wished for later‑open bars or more evening activities; this reduced convenience, particularly after using the onsen.
Signs of aging and maintenance issues
A number of reviews noted dated furnishings or visible wear (peeling trim/window coverings, slightly dated furniture), suggesting parts of the property would benefit from refurbishment or repair.
Occasional bedding/cleanliness problems
A few guests reported issues with bedding comfort or cleanliness—examples include thin futon mattresses causing discomfort and a reported musty/moldy smell on a futon cover—though these appeared to be isolated incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from standard doubles and twin rooms to Japanese-style rooms with futons; SOLA Villa suites accommodate up to 6 guests. Please check the specific room type for its maximum capacity when booking.
Yes — the hotel operates two hot-spring baths (Minami Awaji open-air and Shiozaki indoor); public onsen hours are generally 5:30–10:00 and 12:00–24:00 with cleaning from 10:00–12:00.
Some SOLA Villa rooms have private open-air baths on the terrace for exclusive use; a barrier-free family bath is available by reservation but is not supplied with hot-spring water.
The hotel offers pick-up from Fukura Bus Terminal — guests should call the hotel on arrival to request collection, and the hotel can also arrange contract taxis from major airports by prior reservation.
The nearest airport noted is Tokushima (about 37 km); you can also reach the hotel from Osaka/Kobe via train to Sannomiya and a highway bus to Fukura, followed by hotel pick-up.
Staff are primarily Japanese; English may be limited, so guests with specific needs are advised to contact the hotel in advance.
The property has two restaurants offering regional cuisine (including kaiseki-style and menus featuring Awaji local ingredients) and a buffet breakfast; some meal plans offer in-room breakfast for villa guests.
The hotel overlooks the Naruto Strait and Onaruto Bridge and is well placed for island sightseeing such as Mount Omiyama; the front desk can advise on local tours and excursions.
Standard check-in is 15:00 and check-out 10:00 (some suites and SOLA Villas have 14:00/11:00 times); the reception operates 24 hours, so contact the hotel if you expect a late arrival.
Pets are not permitted on the property; some villa rooms offer private baths and certain facilities (for example the family bath) can be reserved — contact the hotel to request private-use options.