Sakahijiri gyokushoen
8,1/10 Excellent - Based on 338 reviews
Sakahijiri Gyokushoen is a traditional Japanese inn set on the western coast of the Izu Peninsula, occupying a wooded site with a crafted Japanese garden and corridors that link a cluster of low-rise buildings. The property emphasizes classic design and quiet sightlines over flashy amenities, offering sea views from some terraces and a layout that encourages slow-paced exploration of the gardens. Framed as a ryokan with onsen in Izu, Shizuoka, it presents both communal thermal baths and a mix of room types that reflect local character rather than standardized hotel blocks.
Guest accommodation ranges from tatami-style rooms to multi-room suites, some of which include dedicated outdoor baths; the property advertises suites with private open-air baths (the “stone garden” rooms) and rooms with balconies that look toward the garden or sea. Public bathing facilities include indoor and outdoor thermal pools with scheduled gender rotations and supplementary amenities such as a sauna; staff manage bathing times and privacy to accommodate both private use and shared onsen experiences. Practical room features noted by visitors include en-suite bathrooms, in-room kettles and small fridges, and options to reserve meals in-room or in the dining area, consistent with a ryokan with private onsen in Shizuoka.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sakahijiri gyokushoen
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsens (private and public)
Many guests praise the onsen facilities — large, very clean hot baths including private in-room or private-family baths and pleasant outdoor tubs with relaxing views.
Spacious traditional rooms with nice views
Reviewers frequently mention large, comfortable traditional Japanese rooms (tatami/futon or queen bed options), often with balconies or views of gardens and the sea.
High-quality dinner/local cuisine
Several guests highlight excellent evening meals featuring a wide variety of local Japanese dishes, sometimes delivered and served in-room for a private dining experience.
Calm, authentic ryokan atmosphere and lovely gardens
Many found the ryokan serene and very traditional — a peaceful escape with attractive gardens, koi ponds and a strong sense of traditional Japan.
Friendly, helpful staff and good overall value
Multiple reviews note pleasant, accommodating staff and an overall satisfying stay, with several guests recommending the property for its experience and value.
Negative Reviews
Limited or unavailable on-site dining
Numerous guests were disappointed that dining options are limited or not offered; some could not book dinner or breakfast in advance and found few local restaurants nearby.
Inconsistent cleanliness and maintenance issues
A minority of reviews report serious problems (mould in a bathtub, peeling wallpaper, dirty windows) and generally note that some areas and furnishings need renovation or deeper cleaning.
Service and booking problems reported by some guests
A few guests experienced unhelpful interactions or strict policies (refused dinner despite willingness to pay, difficulty reserving meals), leading to frustration.
Remote location and transport challenges
Several reviewers mention the property is fairly remote — long travel times with multiple transfers and limited public transport, and few nearby dining options if you miss meal reservations.
Room layout and comfort drawbacks for some
Some guests noted practical inconveniences such as low passages causing head bumps, soft futons causing back discomfort, and limited sound/light proofing in traditional rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary from single to larger traditional rooms; some room types can accommodate up to six people — capacity depends on the room, so check the room details when booking.
Yes — the property offers public indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths plus sauna facilities, and there are a limited number of private open-air baths available to reserve.
There is no regular airport shuttle; most guests arrive by car or by train to Shuzenji (or Mishima) followed by a Tokai bus to Toi and a short walk from the bus stop.
Haneda Airport is the most convenient major airport; travel time to the ryokan by train plus bus or by car typically takes around 2.5–3 hours depending on connections and traffic.
Staff can assist in English and there is some Chinese-language support; language ability may vary by shift but the front desk provides basic English help.
Expect tatami-style rooms, seasonal kaiseki meals, onsen bathing, and a Japanese garden — the stay emphasizes traditional hospitality and local seafood cuisine.
Toi Gold Mine, Toi Beach and Matsubara Park are within a short walk; other West Izu coastal sights are a short drive away for day trips.
Take the train to Shuzenji or Mishima, then the Tokai bus toward Toi; get off at Toi/Nakahama (Nakahama bus stop) and the ryokan is a short walk from there.
Pets are not permitted at the property; private (reserved) open-air baths are available and can be booked at the front desk subject to availability.
The ryokan serves kaiseki and other set meals (dinner and breakfast are commonly offered with plans), and you will find small restaurants and local shops within walking distance while larger supermarkets require a short drive.