Shima-Onsen Toshimaya
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 100 reviews
Shima-Onsen Toshimaya is a compact, 15-room ryokan set beside the clear Shimagawa River in a quiet mountain valley of Gunma Prefecture. Rooms are individually designed in a Japanese–Western fusion style that balances traditional tatami finishes with contemporary comforts; many room types include terraces or small private bathing spaces. Several suites feature their own open-air baths crafted from stone or white cedar and finished with clay-walled, plastered enclosures, so the property functions both as a classic ryokan and as a ryokan with private onsen Gumma travellers often seek for a more secluded experience.
Bathing options are a defining feature: in-room open-air tubs let guests soak directly from the Shima hot spring source, while larger communal baths provide alternately scheduled access for men and women. Some terrace baths are supplied solely with natural spring water and are intentionally simple—without a washing area—to emphasise raw thermal immersion; other private bathing rooms include a full wash setup. The layout and bath variety make the property suitable both for guests who prioritise a private onsen experience and for those who prefer shared public baths within a traditional ryokan with onsen Gunma visitors expect.
Dining follows a seasonal kaiseki approach focused on local mountain and river ingredients, served in a calm dining area designed with a riverside motif; breakfast and multicourse dinners are standard inclusions for overnight plans. Practical amenities reflect the ryokan’s modest scale: air conditioning, separate bath and toilet in most rooms, yukata and basic toiletries, and on-site parking. The setting by the river, with nearby walking trails and a compact village atmosphere, suits travellers looking for measured relaxation, regional cuisine, and direct access to hot-spring bathing without urban bustle.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Shima-Onsen Toshimaya
Positive Reviews
Stunning riverside setting
The property sits beside a gushing river with beautiful countryside views; many guests praised the view and the calming sound of the water visible/hearable from rooms and outdoor baths.
Authentic, well‑appointed ryokan rooms
Rooms are traditional and tasteful (tatami, timber/hinoki baths on terraces) and many guests found them comfortable, quiet and beautifully designed — ideal for couples and families.
Excellent onsen facilities
The ryokan offers both public indoor/outdoor onsens and private in‑room baths; guests enjoyed relaxing soaks (snow/river views in winter) and the option to rent an additional private onsen.
Outstanding food (kaiseki)
Dinner and breakfast were repeatedly described as delicious, abundant and a highlight of the stay — traditional multi‑course kaiseki meals with generous portions and careful presentation.
Attentive, friendly staff and service
Staff were consistently reported as polite, helpful and welcoming (assisting with luggage, explaining meals/rules and arranging activities such as canoe trips), including English assistance in some cases.
Negative Reviews
Strict meal schedules
Breakfast and dinner are served at set times (dinner often only at specific slots), so guests must be punctual — late arrivals can disrupt service and require rearrangement.
Remote location and limited transport
The ryokan’s rural setting is part of its charm but means longer travel times from major cities, limited public transport (a single bus) and few taxi options — planning is needed.
Accessibility (no elevator)
There is no elevator; stairs are required to reach some rooms and guests noted this can be difficult for older or less mobile visitors.
Minor comfort and facility issues
Some guests mentioned limited places to hang wet towels, occasional uncomfortable pillows, and minor miscommunication (e.g., luggage handling) or cosmetic wear in common areas.
Onsen comfort/size concerns at times
A few reviewers reported indoor baths becoming misty/poorly ventilated, daytime onsen temperatures being very hot, and occasional visibility/gap issues in private baths or smaller‑than‑expected public riverside pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most rooms are designed for two adults; some room types can accommodate a child but cribs and extra beds are generally not available. Check the specific room details when booking.
The ryokan uses natural Shima Onsen water and offers multiple communal and open-air baths, two family (private) baths, and several guest rooms with private open-air baths. All baths are continuously supplied with source water.
Yes—Toshimaya has family/private baths and some rooms with private outdoor baths; contact the front desk to reserve a family bath or to request a room with a private bath. Availability may be limited.
Tattoos may not be permitted in public bathing areas. Guests with visible tattoos should check with the ryokan in advance.
There is no regularly advertised free airport shuttle; most guests arrive by car, taxi or local bus from nearby stations. Confirm any transfer options with the ryokan before you travel.
The nearest rail access is JR Nakanojo Station, followed by a taxi or bus ride to Shima Onsen; regional airports (for example Matsumoto) are closer than Tokyo’s major airports, but Haneda/Narita remain practical with longer transfers. Travel times vary, so plan connections in advance.
The property provides English information on its website and staff can assist in basic English, but proficiency may be limited. Bringing a translation app or simple Japanese phrases is recommended for smooth communication.
Many plans include a multi-course kaiseki dinner and an Asian-style breakfast; dinner is served at set times with last seating typically around 18:30, so notify the ryokan if you expect to arrive late. Meals emphasize local, seasonal ingredients.
Shima Onsen is a small hot-spring village with limited shops; for supermarkets and wider shopping options, you will likely need to drive to Nakanojo town or nearby towns. It’s a good idea to bring any special items with you.
Standard check-in is usually from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out is by 10:00 (some information notes early check-out windows starting around 07:30). The entrance may be closed overnight—inform the ryokan if you will arrive after 18:30 or outside reception hours.