Kokoronodoka
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 99 reviews
Kokoronodoka is a compact, family-run ryokan on the Izu coast in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture, offering a deliberately traditional stay in Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding. Room types range from standard two-person layouts to larger family configurations, some with sea or mountain views; basic in-room comforts include air conditioning, a small refrigerator and TV. Meals emphasize seasonal, locally sourced seafood and vegetables served as multi-course Japanese dinners and a morning breakfast, all prepared in a straightforward, home-style manner. As a ryokan with private onsen in Kawazu, it is aimed at guests seeking a quiet, low-key seaside retreat.
The property provides hot-spring bathing facilities that guests report include private-use options: both indoor and open-air baths are available for small-group or reserved private access, with yukata, towels and onsen etiquette explained by staff. Public areas include a modest lounge and a garden terrace for relaxing after a soak. Practical conveniences noted by visitors include on-site parking, complimentary Wi‑Fi in public areas, and a reception that handles check-in needs; the atmosphere prioritizes personal hospitality over large-hotel services.
Located within easy walking distance of the local train station and a short stroll to Imaihama Beach, Kokoronodoka makes a convenient base for exploring coastal walks, seasonal cherry-blossom spots and other Izu Peninsula attractions. Guests frequently highlight attentive, English-friendly service and generous portioning at meals; quiet evenings, simple but well-maintained facilities and the option to use private hot-spring baths contribute to a restful, characterful stay. Overall it presents a practical choice for travelers seeking a ryokan with private onsen in Shizuoka Prefecture focused on calm and local flavour.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kokoronodoka
Positive Reviews
Authentic traditional Japanese experience
Multiple guests praised the ryokan’s traditional atmosphere—tatami rooms, yukata, cultural touches and an immersive stay that feels genuinely Japanese.
Warm, attentive staff and hospitality
Reviews repeatedly mention exceptionally friendly, helpful owners and staff who go out of their way to assist guests (help with station transfers, umbrellas, taking photos) and create a welcoming, family-run feel.
Excellent Japanese breakfast and memorable dining
The Japanese breakfast was described as outstanding and lovingly prepared each morning; several guests highlighted the high quality and variety of local dishes that fuel day trips.
Private onsen baths (indoor and outdoor)
The property features two private onsens with indoor and outdoor sections; guests enjoyed easy access, privacy and found the baths relaxing and a highlight of the stay.
Quiet seaside/mountain location with great views
Guests valued the peaceful, secluded setting with views of the hills and sea, easy access to the beach and proximity to Imaihama‑kaigan station (short walk), making it a calm gateway to Kawazu attractions.
Negative Reviews
Limited nearby restaurants and shops
Several reviews noted there are few or no shops/restaurants within immediate walking distance; dining options in the village are limited and many eateries close midweek, so guests should plan food accordingly.
Meals must be pre‑ordered / limited on‑site dining information
Multiple guests said dinner and sometimes breakfast must be reserved in advance and that they were not always informed; this can lead to inconvenience if guests expect walk‑in options.
Uphill access from the station / difficult with luggage
Access involves a small but sometimes steep hill from the train station; reviewers warned it can be tiring or hard with heavy luggage despite being within walking distance.
Occasional organisational/service mix‑ups
A few guests reported check‑in confusion and at least one instance where a pre‑booked breakfast was not prepared, indicating occasional lapses in coordination.
Some comfort and maintenance issues
A small number of guests mentioned practical drawbacks: ageing electrical fittings that sparked when plugging in, thin walls, slow Wi‑Fi for work, summertime heat in rooms, occasional mosquitoes and potential dust/allergy triggers—worth noting for sensitive guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese style with futons and sleep from 2 up to 5 guests depending on the room type; family rooms list up to five futons.
Yes, the ryokan has hot spring facilities including indoor and outdoor baths and small private onsen available for guests.
The property offers private baths that guests use for privacy; they are popular, so ask staff on arrival or at booking about reservation or timing.
No regular airport shuttle is listed; the ryokan is best reached by train and taxi, and you can contact the property in advance to request a private pickup if needed.
Imaihama-Kaigan Station on the Izukyū Line is the nearest station, within a short walk of the property; Izukyū-Shimoda and Rendaiji stations are farther by car.
Staff are Japanese and are accustomed to international guests; English assistance is generally available but may be limited, so simple requests in advance are helpful.
Expect tatami rooms, yukata, traditional Japanese-style breakfasts and the onsen bathing etiquette (shoe removal, communal etiquette) for an authentic ryokan stay.
Nearby highlights include local beaches at Imaihama, Shimoda Aquarium, iZoo, and regional temples and coastal viewpoints in the Kawazu area.
Standard hours are check-in from 15:00 to 20:00 and check-out by 10:30; notify the property if you expect to arrive outside those times.
Pets are not permitted on the premises; the ryokan offers on-site breakfast and there are a few local restaurants and convenience stores or supermarkets in the nearby town a short walk or drive away.