Aokiya
6,6/10 Good - Based on 6 reviews
Aokiya sits on a hillside above Lake Kamo on Sado Island, presenting a consistent lake view from every guestroom and framing sunsets behind the Osado range. Marketed as "Sunset & Lake," the property emphasizes quiet waterfront panoramas and proximity to Shiizaki Park and a traditional noh stage; the ferry port at Ryotsu is a short drive, making it a convenient base for exploring the island. As a ryokan with onsen in Sado, it leans toward a relaxed, traditional atmosphere rather than a large-resort scale.
The inn draws on the local Shiizaki Onsen source for its bathing facilities. Public baths were renovated and now include the main hall "Mugen no Yu," the hinoki (cypress) tub in "Tsukino-miya" and an open-air terrace called "Hiten" that faces the lake; bathing areas operate on a rotating male/female schedule. The spring is locally described as a sodium-chloride type and carries a folk legend of the toki using the water to heal; day-use bathing is offered during set hours for visitors who wish to experience the baths without staying overnight.
Accommodations blend traditional tatami rooms and modern comforts — seating areas, flat-screen TVs, climate control and private bathrooms in many room types — many positioned to take advantage of the lake views. Evening kaiseki-style meals concentrate on Sado’s seasonal seafood, frequently served as shared sashimi platters or multi-course sets, while simple Asian breakfasts are available. Practical services include complimentary parking, a shuttle to the port with advance notice, bicycle rental and optional massages; as a ryokan with onsen in Niigata Prefecture, the property is a calm choice for travelers who prioritize lake vistas, local cuisine and an authentic onsen experience.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
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Review summary for: Aokiya
Positive Reviews
Abundant hot spring water
A reviewer specifically praised the onsen, noting the baths had plentiful hot water which contributed to a relaxing bathing experience.
Comfortable, fluffy futons
Guests reported that the futons were soft and fluffy, making sleeping comfortable and enhancing overall rest.
Generally positive ratings
Multiple reviews show favorable scores (ratings ranging from 6 to 8) and positive header words such as 'Bien', 'Agréable', and 'Très bien', indicating overall guest satisfaction.
Suitable for various traveler types
Review tags indicate stays by couples, families and business travelers, suggesting the property appeals to different guest profiles and trip purposes.
Negative Reviews
No specific complaints reported
Most reviewers left no written negatives; one review explicitly stated there were no particular negatives (特にありません), and several reviews contained no comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard Japanese-style rooms are arranged for two guests (two futons); children are welcome but there are no extra beds or baby cots, so add children in your booking to view appropriate room options.
Yes — Aokiya offers natural hot-spring baths including large indoor baths and an open-air terrace with gender-swapping schedules; public baths are available for overnight guests.
Tattoos may lead to refused access to public baths and other shared facilities, so guests with tattoos should check with the ryokan in advance.
A shuttle service is available (including from Ryotsu/Ferry area); you must reserve it at least one day in advance to guarantee pickup.
The nearest mainland airport is Niigata; from there take a ferry or high-speed boat to Ryotsu Port, then a short bus, taxi or the ryokan shuttle (about 5 minutes by car) to Aokiya.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 and the latest arrival is around 22:30; check-out time is by 10:00.
Japanese is the primary language, and staff can assist in basic English for common guest needs.
Meals focus on seasonal Sado seafood and regional dishes with set-course dinners (kaiseki-style) and an Asian-style breakfast; dietary requests can be made in advance.
Pets are not permitted, and parties or bachelor/hen-style celebrations are not allowed on the premises.
Aokiya overlooks Lake Kamo and is close to Shiizaki Park and a traditional Noh stage; local buses and taxis serve Ryotsu Port so the ryokan is a short ride from ferry connections and island attractions.