Zen no Yu
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 8 reviews
Zen no Yu is a compact, temple-front shukubo in Kawazu on the Izu Peninsula that pairs traditional Japanese rooms with a quietly appointed hot-spring facility. Housed beside a Buddhist temple, the property emphasizes privacy and slow rhythms: all guest rooms are tatami-style with sunlit engawa edges, and common areas include a small garden, a terrace and a communal lounge. The atmosphere is deliberately restrained, making it suitable for visitors seeking a meditative stay rather than a high‑activity resort. For search optimization, relevant phrases include "ryokan with onsen Ōita".
The onsen at Zen no Yu is supplied from a private, natural source and is offered as a continuous-flow bath; adjacent stone sauna and ganbanyoku (rock-bed) facilities extend the thermal options. Meals focus on seasonal, vegetable-forward preparations and can be served in private dining rooms; onsite dinner reservations are required due to limited local dining. The property mentions yoga and guided meditation sessions offered to guests, and staff communicate in Japanese and English. Public-bath etiquette is observed and guests with visible tattoos may face restrictions.
Practical details reflect the intimate scale: simple amenities, no pets, and an emphasis on restful rhythm rather than flashy services; the nearest public bus stops at the property entrance, making walks to Kawazu’s seven waterfalls and coastline straightforward. Note that this style of accommodation prioritizes quiet hours and a deliberate pace—useful for guests planning scenic day trips across the Izu coast. For keyword targeting on affiliate pages, also consider the search variant "ryokan with private onsen Ōita".
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Zen no Yu
Positive Reviews
Outstanding, thoughtfully prepared meals
Multiple guests praised the food — fresh, locally sourced and handmade dishes with refined flavors (examples include kinmedai shabu‑shabu and the innkeeper’s plum liqueur). Both dinner and breakfast were highlighted as excellent and carefully designed.
Private, peaceful dining and relaxing atmosphere
Dinner served in private rooms allowed guests to eat quietly and unhurriedly, contributing to an overall sense of calm and relaxation during the stay.
Attentive, helpful staff and reliable service
Staff were described as sincere and supportive — responding promptly online and at the desk, offering luggage storage for long periods, and even helping guests by driving them to trailheads when bus timing was confusing.
Good bathing and wellness facilities
The property offers a variety of bathing options (private baths, public baths, open‑air onsen) and a well‑designed ganbanyoku (stone sauna) area that guests found pleasant and comfortable.
Convenient amenities and clean, comfortable rooms
Guests noted useful on‑site amenities such as modern coin laundry and drying machines, tidy and comfortable rooms, and overall cleanliness throughout the facilities.
Negative Reviews
Limited public transport and infrequent buses
Several guests reported that buses from Kawazu Station are infrequent (about once an hour), which can make arrival and departure inconvenient and requires careful planning.
Remote location with few walkable attractions
Although the hotel is convenient for accessing the Kawazu Nanadaru trail, reviewers mentioned there are few nearby places within walking distance, so having a car is preferable for exploring the area.
Outdated local information and maps
One guest experienced outdated or incorrect local information that led to wasted time (a recommended spot no longer existed); reviewers suggested updating maps and local guidance for non‑driving visitors.
Some guests uncomfortable with Japanese futon bedding
At least one guest found it difficult to sleep on traditional Japanese futon bedding and noted they had to set it themselves, which affected their comfort.
Ganbanyoku temperature may be too high for some
While the ganbanyoku was appreciated for its design and scent, one guest found the temperature too high to use comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Zen no Yu is adults-only (children are not permitted). Rooms include Japanese-style futon rooms, twin rooms and larger quadruple rooms that accommodate small groups or families of adults.
Yes — the property operates a natural hot spring with communal indoor and outdoor baths and a stone/sauna area; onsen access is included with a room stay.
There is no publicised airport shuttle; the closest rail hub is Kawazu Station, and the property is served by local buses and has free on-site parking for guests with cars.
Guests typically travel to the Izu area via Tokyo (Haneda or Narita) or by regional rail, then continue to Kawazu Station by train or bus before taking a short local bus or taxi to the ryokan.
Staff at Zen no Yu speak Japanese and English to assist international guests.
The ryokan is temple-run and emphasizes a calm, traditional stay with complimentary yoga and meditation sessions, handcrafted local meals, and a small, intimate atmosphere.
There are few or no restaurants and convenience stores immediately nearby, so guests are recommended to book on-site dinner in advance; breakfast is typically offered at the property.
The area offers natural attractions such as the Amagi mountains, Kawazu Seven Waterfalls (Kawazu Nanadaru), local wasabi farms, and seasonal cherry blossom viewing in Kawazu.
Local buses and taxis connect Kawazu Station to the ryokan and nearby sights, while guests driving benefit from free parking on site; trains serve Kawazu for wider regional travel.
Pets are not permitted on the property; private or reserved-use bathing options are not guaranteed — contact the ryokan in advance to request or confirm any private-bath arrangements.