Shima Onsen Yoshimoto
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 48 reviews
Shima Onsen Yoshimoto is a compact, traditionally styled ryokan set quietly in the Shima Onsen valley. The property preserves classic Japanese details—tatami-floored guest rooms, an irori open hearth in the lobby and restrained wooden interiors—arranged across eight rooms to keep the atmosphere intimate. Gardened grounds and views toward the river and surrounding hills frame the inn; interiors emphasize natural materials, low furniture and soft lighting to encourage a calm, restorative stay. This property is positioned as a ryokan with onsen in Shima Onsen, Gumma, offering a close-to-nature onsen experience without large-scale resort facilities.
Accommodation mixes purely Japanese tatami rooms with some western-style options, and four of the eight rooms include their own private bathing facilities. Onsite bathing comprises two open-air baths, two indoor baths and a chartered (rented) bath available for private use, alongside shared changing areas and drying amenities. Public spaces include a lounge, a small bar and a private dining room; practical touches for guests include in-room climate control, refrigerators, toiletries and a modest selection of technology comforts. Free bicycle rental and a compact front desk support self-guided exploration of nearby walking trails and the onsen town.
Meals prioritize seasonal, locally sourced ingredients presented in a Japanese multi-course style that reflects kaiseki sensibilities, with a curated sake and shochu list to match regional flavors. Service focuses on thoughtful hospitality and small-group attention, useful for travellers seeking a low-key, service-led retreat. For guests wanting exclusive bathing, the arrangement of a chartered bath and several room baths means this ryokan with private onsen in Gumma prefecture can accommodate couples or small parties who value privacy alongside traditional ryokan rituals. The overall experience aims to combine simple, room-forward comfort with deliberate hot-spring time.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Shima Onsen Yoshimoto
Positive Reviews
Outstanding food (breakfast and dinner)
Many guests praised the meals — breakfast described as delicious and beautifully presented (often served in a private room) and dinner/kaiseki celebrated for its presentation, variety and high quality.
Very friendly, attentive staff
Numerous reviews highlight prompt, helpful and hospitable staff — quick responses to messages, helpful arrival assistance, thoughtful service during meals and warm welcomes with tea and sweets.
Excellent onsen facilities (private and public)
Private in‑room onsens received frequent praise (large, easy to use, good temperature, balcony baths with views). The public baths — including indoor and outdoor onsen — were also described as beautiful and not crowded.
Comfortable, well‑designed rooms blending tradition and modernity
Guests appreciated renovated and spacious rooms that marry traditional ryokan style with modern touches (clean, stylish, good use of space, quality fixtures such as a Dyson hair dryer). Several rooms were noted as comfortable and big.
Peaceful, scenic mountain location and nearby attractions
Reviewers enjoyed the tranquil setting, mountain views, gentle snowfall, nearby shops and restaurants, and local excursions (e.g. hike to the dam, proximity to Szekizenkan). The location is seen as a relaxing retreat.
Negative Reviews
No in‑room shower in some room types
Multiple guests noted that rooms often lack a conventional shower and that bathing is expected to be done in the onsen facilities (private or public), which may not suit everyone.
Accessibility and transport concerns
Several reviewers mentioned the property is a bit of a walk or uphill from the main bus drop‑off and can be a longer journey from Tokyo; guests recommended being aware of the walk and suggested a pickup service would help with luggage.
Traditional bedding can be uncomfortable for some
A few guests reported discomfort sleeping on futons/tatami (preferring Western pocketed‑spring beds) and gave lower comfort ratings for floor bedding.
Occasional noise and disturbances
There are isolated reports of disruptive noise (a tree hitting a gutter at night, nearby construction) that affected sleep for some guests.
Cleanliness, linen and ironing issues reported
Some guests reported problems such as dusty rooms, an unpleasant smell on linens (possibly from outsourced cleaning), and the absence of an iron or ironing service — concerns for guests who need pressed clothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan has eight rooms with capacities varying by room type, typically for 2 to 5 guests; some rooms are designed for two while others can host small families or groups.
There are gender-separated public baths and open-air baths, and several rooms feature private onsen tubs for in-room bathing.
Yes — select room types include private open-air baths, and a private onsen can usually be used subject to availability; contact the ryokan in advance to request or confirm.
There is no regular public shuttle; staff can arrange pick-up or advise on transport if contacted before arrival; the nearest major rail access is Nakanojo Station with a local bus, and the ryokan is about one hour by car from the nearest expressway interchange.
Staff speak Japanese and English and can assist with basic English-language requests.
Meals focus on seasonal local ingredients presented as multi-course Japanese kaiseki-style dinners and breakfasts, typically served in-room or in a private dining area.
Tattoos may be restricted in public baths where other guests might see them; guests with tattoos are advised to use private baths or check the ryokan policy in advance.
Pets are not permitted, and the property does not accept parties or similar large events; full privatization for events is not offered as a standard option.
Shima Onsen is a small hot-spring village with limited shops; for larger supermarkets or wide grocery choices you will typically need to go to Nakanojo town by car or bus.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 (last check-in around 18:00) and check-out is by 10:00; please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance.