The Ryokan Tokyo YUGAWARA
8/10 Excellent - Based on 303 reviews
The Ryokan Tokyo YUGAWARA sits on the slopes above a coastal valley in Yugawara, Kanagawa, presenting a compact, contemporary take on a traditional inn. Opened in 2016 and run by a regional hot‑spring operator since 2022, the property blends minimal Japanese design with communal living: a mix of private guest rooms and a small dormitory, a simple communal lounge and an on‑site shop for local crafts. Accommodation concepts and activity packages emphasise quiet stays and creative pursuits, so the atmosphere leans toward relaxed, low‑key hospitality rather than a large resort-style programme.
Bathing is central to the experience: the ryokan operates a source‑fed hot spring with a public bathing area and shared shower facilities, making it a clear example of a ryokan with onsen in Yugawara that caters to visitors seeking authentic thermal bathing rather than private in‑room baths. The public onsen is complemented by a day‑use spa concept on site that opened more recently, and the property has introduced light experiential offerings—hands‑on craft sessions and themed afternoon events—that pair well with a short restorative stay in Kanagawa.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: The Ryokan Tokyo YUGAWARA
Positive Reviews
Relaxing, high-quality onsen (hot baths)
Multiple guests highlight the onsen as a major plus — very relaxing, clean and a key part of the ryokan experience (some guests also appreciated that the onsen is tattoo‑friendly).
Calm, scenic atmosphere and pleasant common areas
Reviewers repeatedly mention a peaceful, zen-like setting in the mountains/valley, attractive surroundings and comfortable shared spaces (lounges, coffee/tea areas) that make the stay relaxing and sociable.
Friendly, attentive staff and helpful services
Staff are described as polite, helpful and informative; many guests appreciated detailed explanations at check-in and the overall service quality.
Clean, comfortable rooms and amenities
Guests report clean rooms that are spacious for a traditional ryokan, with comfortable beds/blankets in many room types and well‑maintained facilities (shared showers, onsen, Wi‑Fi).
Excellent traditional food
The cuisine and traditional breakfasts received strong praise — many guests found the food excellent, authentic and generous in portion size.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and steep access
A common complaint is the ryokan’s location on a steep hill that is tiring to walk to, especially with luggage; several guests recommend planning transport (shuttle, taxi or car) rather than walking.
Limited shuttle/transport schedules and accessibility
The free shuttle is appreciated but runs only a few times per day and must often be requested in advance; transport after late evening is limited, which some guests found inconvenient.
Limited nearby amenities and food options
Because the property is somewhat removed from town, guests noted few nearby convenience stores or restaurants, and some felt dining options outside the ryokan were limited.
Service/facility shortcomings (stairs, cleaning, towels)
Several guests mentioned practical issues: the building has multiple floors with no elevator, there were occasions of no daily room cleaning or low towel supply, and minor maintenance issues (small leaks) were reported.
Bedding comfort and occasional onsen temperature concerns
A few guests found traditional futon mattresses or pillows too firm and reported morning back discomfort; one reviewer also noted the onsen water felt cooler than expected on their visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from single beds and dormitory bunks to Japanese-style rooms that sleep up to six; check the listed maximum occupancy for each room type when booking.
The property has an on-site natural hot spring (public bath) for guests; private-use baths are not guaranteed, so contact the ryokan in advance to confirm private or reservation options.
A complimentary shuttle from JR Yugawara Station runs at set afternoon times (reserve at least 24 hours in advance); there is no regular airport shuttle—use train or taxi to reach Yugawara Station first.
The ryokan is in Yugawara, roughly 78 km (about 48 miles) from Haneda; typical travel is around 1.5–2 hours by train or car to JR Yugawara Station, then the ryokan shuttle or a short taxi ride.
Staff can assist in Japanese and English, and the property reports multi-language support for international guests.
Expect a modern take on ryokan hospitality with Japanese-style rooms, communal lounges for relaxation or work, local seafood-based meals, and an on-site onsen for a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
Nearby highlights include Manyo Park (about 1.2 km away), coastal beaches and hiking trails, and the Atami/Odawara area for seaside sights and fresh seafood markets.
Free on-site parking is available (EV charging provided), but local roads can be steep so many guests use the station shuttle or taxis; there is also limited local bus service around Yugawara.
Check-in is typically between 16:00 and 20:00 and check-out is by 10:00; the front desk has limited hours, so notify the ryokan of your expected arrival time and arrange the station shuttle ahead of your trip.
Pets are not permitted at the ryokan; there is an on-site restaurant offering breakfast and dinner, and convenience stores, small supermarkets and local eateries are located near JR Yugawara Station.