Honjin
8,7/10 Excellent - Based on 204 reviews
Honjin (marketed on its site as Yoritomo no Yu Honjin) is a compact, traditionally styled ryokan set on the slopes around Genji-yama in Izunokuni, Shizuoka. The property preserves a calm, tatami-led aesthetic across a small footprint of 15 guest rooms, with mountain-facing windows and garden glimpses that underline a quietly rural character. Framed as a ryokan with onsen Shizuoka, the house combines a centuries-old local history with practical modern comforts—private parking, an all-tatami interior in public areas, and a guest lounge offering complimentary tea and coffee—making it suited to family groups and travellers seeking a restrained, authentic stay.
Guest accommodation emphasises traditional layouts: several rooms are two-room configurations (commonly described as 14+6 tatami layouts) that can sleep larger parties on multiple futons, while most units include en-suite bathrooms, individual climate control and basic in-room amenities such as a refrigerator and toiletries. The ryokan provides rental yukata and small touches intended to support a low-key, restorative visit; service is focused and personal, with dining offered on-site in the dining room using seasonal local produce and seafood from nearby waters.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Honjin
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff and excellent hospitality
Multiple reviewers praised friendly, helpful and professional staff, noting quick assistance (including handling luggage/bike cases), English-speaking front desk service, and thoughtful touches that made stays welcoming.
Outstanding food (breakfast & dinner)
Guests repeatedly highlighted the high quality and presentation of meals—especially the Japanese breakfast—and said dinner and breakfast felt abundant, carefully prepared and memorable.
Relaxing onsen facilities (including unique cave onsen)
The ryokan's hot springs were described as natural, relaxing and a highlight of the stay; several guests mentioned the cave onsen as a unique, special experience.
Traditional, clean and comfortable rooms with peaceful atmosphere
Reviewers appreciated the authentic Japanese decor, spacious and well-equipped rooms, comfortable futons/pillows, attention to detail, and the quiet, elegant environment conducive to relaxation.
Lobby lounge and complimentary amenities
Guests enjoyed the pleasant lobby area offering free drinks, snacks and confectionaries, plus convenient communal spaces that added value to the stay and enhanced comfort.
Negative Reviews
Challenging access from train/bus with luggage
Several guests noted the property can be difficult to reach on foot from the train station or bus stops when carrying heavy luggage and recommended taking a taxi for convenience.
Limited accessibility for mobility-impaired guests
At least one reviewer pointed out there is no ramp at the entrance, which may make access difficult for wheelchair users or those with reduced mobility despite having lifts to upper floors.
Occasional unexpected charges at checkout
One guest reported a surprise payment on departure that was higher than expected, indicating a need for clearer billing or communication about extra fees.
Some dated elements and lighting affecting ambiance
A few reviewers mentioned parts of the hotel feeling slightly dated and that harsh fluorescent lighting in traditional areas reduced the cozy atmosphere, though these were considered minor issues overall.
Outdoor onsen temperature issues
One reviewer experienced excessively hot water in the outdoor rock onsen that caused discomfort; this suggests temperature control can be inconsistent and may need attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with futon bedding; room types accommodate from 4 up to 6 guests depending on the room. Cots and extra beds are not available.
Yes — Honjin offers multiple baths including an outdoor rotenburo, a rock (iwaburo) bath, a cave bath and a hinoki (cypress) bath. Public bath hours are typically in the evening and early morning (generally around 15:00–23:00 and 06:00–09:30).
Private/family baths can be reserved and the property sometimes accepts full-house bookings for large groups; please contact the ryokan directly to confirm availability and terms.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the nearest station (Izu‑Nagaoka) is within roughly 1–1.5 km, reachable by taxi or about a 15‑minute walk. Contact the ryokan in advance if you need assistance or a pickup arrangement.
The closest major airport is Tokyo Haneda; reach Honjin by train to Izu‑Nagaoka (or Mishima) plus a local taxi or bus, or by car. Check public-transport timetables for best connections on your travel date.
The ryokan’s primary language is Japanese, and staff offer basic English assistance; some staff may also assist in Chinese. For complex requests, advance notice is recommended.
Honjin serves traditional Japanese meals (seasonal kaiseki-style dinner and breakfast) prepared from local ingredients. If you wish to dine at the ryokan, note you should check in early enough for dinner (guests must usually arrive by 18:00 to be served) and notify dietary requests in advance.
Pets are not allowed at the property. Convenience stores and small shops are available in the Izu‑Nagaoka area within a short drive or walk; larger supermarkets are a short drive away in nearby towns.
Nearby highlights include Shuzenji Temple, Izu Panorama Park (ropeway and viewpoints) and other Izu‑area sights such as historic sites and hot‑spring attractions. The ryokan’s location also makes it a good base for exploring the Izu Peninsula.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 (check-in window may close around 19:30) and check-out is by 10:00. Guests are asked to inform Honjin of their expected arrival time in advance and note the dinner cutoff if you plan to eat on-site.