Itoen Hotel Shima
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Itoen Hotel Shima sits in the Shima Onsen area of Nakanojo, presented as a mid-sized ryokan combining traditional Japanese room types with western-style options. The property faces wooded slopes and is designed for group stays as well as couples, offering a mix of tatami-floored rooms, multi-futon family layouts and twin rooms. Public areas include a timbered lobby and a restaurant set up for buffet service; the hotel promotes easy access to nearby walking trails and the riverside scenery that defines this part of Gumma.
Bathing facilities are central to the experience: the hotel operates a large indoor bath and a naturally framed rotenburo (outdoor onsen), alongside two reservable kashikiri (private) baths for quieter use. The water is described on site as a calcium–sodium sulfate spring, and bathing times are split between evening and early morning sessions, with private-bath slots released by front-desk reservation on the day of stay. This positioning makes the property a straightforward choice for travelers searching for a ryokan with onsen Gumma and a clear onsen-focused programme.
Rooms range from compact western twin units to larger Japanese-style family rooms and a small number of open-air-bath rooms that include in-room rotenburo facilities; these rooms are useful for guests seeking more seclusion. Meals are served mainly as buffets with seasonal selections and some set-menu options available as supplements. Practical amenities include free parking, Wi‑Fi throughout, a 24-hour reception and an optional shuttle service from the local bus stop; standard check-in and check-out windows are observed. For visitors wanting private bathing in a countryside setting, this ryokan with private onsen Gumma provides both communal and bookable private options.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Itoen Hotel Shima
Positive Reviews
Relaxing onsen experience
Several guests praised the hot spring: water was clean, the onsen temperature felt right and relaxing, and outdoor baths provided a pleasant bathing experience.
Good value for money
Multiple reviewers noted that the package (meals included) felt affordable and offered strong cost-performance, describing the overall price/quality balance as a highlight.
Scenic views from rooms and baths
Guests reported very good views from guest rooms and the outdoor bath, which contributed to the sense of relaxation and enjoyment of the stay.
Buffet and meal variety appreciated by many
Some guests liked the buffet-style meals and variety offered, saying the selection was suitable for families and older guests and represented good value.
Calm atmosphere and helpful staff
Several reviews mentioned a quiet, soothing atmosphere and generally positive staff interactions, including instances of staff arranging pickups or assisting with transfers.
Negative Reviews
Outdated facilities
A number of guests described the property as old and in need of renovation; comments mention worn wooden structures and general aging of facilities.
Inconsistent food quality and at least one serious complaint
While some praised the buffet, others found meals unappetizing. One guest reported severe food-related illness after dining, which is a serious safety concern noted in the reviews.
Poor communication and service handling
Several reviewers reported unreturned phone calls/emails, booking/registration errors (incorrect guest count and billing), and unfriendly or overly businesslike reception and parking guidance.
Room comfort and maintenance issues
Complaints include small rooms and toilets, noisy/heavy floor creaks, thin futons and noisy heaters, a problematic toilet lock, and an entrance step that felt like a trip hazard.
Cleanliness and pest concerns
Some guests described musty tatami smells, small toilet odors, and persistent mosquitoes or insects in rooms, indicating inconsistent cleanliness and pest control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from twin and standard Japanese-style rooms to family rooms; accommodations sleep between 1 and up to 6 guests depending on room type.
Yes; the property features Shima Onsen baths including public indoor baths and open-air (rotenburo) hot-spring facilities for guests to use.
Private rental baths are not listed on the public property pages; please contact the hotel directly to ask about private‑bath availability or reservation options.
The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service; guests should contact the property in advance to arrange pick‑up times and pickup locations.
The hotel listing notes Shinshu‑Matsumoto as a nearby airport (about 140 km); travellers from major airports generally need train and bus connections—contact the hotel for recommended routes and shuttle options.
Staff primarily operate in Japanese; limited English support may be available, so it is advisable to confirm language support with the hotel before arrival.
Meals are served buffet‑style for breakfast and dinner, featuring a range of Japanese and international dishes; dining takes place in the hotel’s restaurant/buffet hall.
The ryokan is located in the Shima Onsen area, suitable for hot‑spring walks, nature sightseeing and local attractions in Nakanojo; the front desk can recommend nearby routes and points of interest.
Check‑in begins at 15:00 (guests are advised to aim to arrive by 18:00 for the stated arrival window) and check‑out is until 11:00.
Pets are not permitted on the property. There is no supermarket on site; the nearest convenience stores and supermarkets are located in Nakanojo—the hotel can provide directions.