Kameyama Onsen Hotel
7,4/10 Very good - Based on 12 reviews
Kameyama Onsen Hotel sits on the wooded shore of Lake Kameyama and pairs traditional ryokan character with modern retreat facilities. The property operates public baths and an open-air onsen; recent upgrades have introduced reservable private open-air baths for guests seeking seclusion. Framed by seasonal foliage, the bathing areas use local thermal water the hotel notes for its skin-softening qualities. This ryokan with onsen in Chiba balances communal bathing rituals with options for private soaking.
Guest accommodation ranges from tatami-floored Japanese-style rooms with futons to larger family suites and lake-facing balconies, each arranged to maximize views and seasonal light. On-site dining focuses on Japanese cuisine served in a casual restaurant and coffee shop, with a morning buffet for residents; the hotel also supports group events and banquet catering. Practical amenities include free Wi‑Fi, complimentary on-site parking with electric-vehicle charging, bike hire and luggage storage, suitable for multi-generational stays and small corporate retreats.
Beyond bathing, the hotel offers nature-led experiences: walking and cycling routes around the lake, fishing and seasonal foliage cruises, plus occasional local festivals that animate the peninsula. A branded "Retreat" concept and adjacent glamping extend the venue’s appeal for staycations and nature-focused breaks, while meeting rooms and a play area make it convenient for families and groups. The property is reachable via the local JR Kururi Line and by road from urban centres, offering a straightforward overnight option for visitors seeking a ryokan with private onsen and countryside access.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kameyama Onsen Hotel
Positive Reviews
Soothing, natural onsen (hot spring)
Several guests praised the onsen for its mild, pleasant quality and authentic source-fed (kakenagashi) hot spring experience, including unique darker mineral-rich water that some found enjoyable.
Delicious meals
Multiple reviews highlighted tasty breakfasts and dinners, with specific praise for the variety of small dishes at breakfast and overall enjoyable cuisine.
Friendly and helpful staff
Staff interactions at check-in and during the stay were described as bright and kind in several reviews, contributing positively to guests' experiences.
Convenient private bath option
Guests appreciated that a private/reserved bath was available close to the rooms (noted as a paid option), which added convenience and privacy.
Family- and child-friendly facilities & peaceful setting
Families reported child-friendly features (toy corner, hammock) that entertained children, and other guests valued the quiet, natural surroundings for a restful stay.
Negative Reviews
Inconsistent or insufficient hot water
Several guests experienced problems with water temperature—cold showers in the morning and onsen baths that felt too cool—indicating inconsistent hot water supply during some stays.
Poor internal staff coordination/handovers
At least one guest reported noticeable lapses in staff communication and handover between shifts, which affected the service experience during check-in and mealtimes.
Dim lighting and unsettling bath appearance
Some guests found the bathing areas too dim and the dark-colored water unsettling or ‘eerie,’ and suggested brighter lighting to improve comfort.
Insects entering bathing areas (no window screens)
Reviewers noted that windows near the onsen lacked screens, allowing insects to enter the bathing area, which reduced comfort for some guests.
Limited accessibility (no elevator)
The property lacks an elevator, making luggage handling difficult and posing challenges for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms include Japanese-style layouts with futons; some family rooms sleep up to five guests using futons and tatami space. Please specify ages and guest count when booking so the hotel can prepare bedding.
The hotel offers mineral-rich hot spring bathing with large public baths, an open-air bath, and terrace views of Lake Kameyama. The spring water is noted locally for its brownish color and smooth feel.
Private/semi-open-air baths are available and can be reserved for private use; advance booking is recommended to secure a time slot. Availability may depend on season and occupancy.
The property does not list a regular airport shuttle; most guests arrive by car, taxi from the nearest station, or private transfer. The hotel is about 88 km (roughly 55 miles) from Narita Airport and around 90 minutes by car from central Tokyo depending on traffic.
Kazusa-Kameyama Station on the JR Kururi Line is the closest station, about a 15–20 minute walk from the lakeside area. Taxis are available at the station and the hotel provides free parking for guests arriving by car.
Staff can communicate in Japanese and some English is available at the property. If you need detailed assistance in another language, notify the hotel in advance.
The hotel has an on-site restaurant and coffee shop and serves local-style breakfasts (often a buffet or set with regional ingredients). Special dietary requests can usually be accommodated if arranged ahead of arrival.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 (3:00 PM) and check-out is by 10:00 (10:00 AM); check-in is generally accepted until midnight. Please inform the hotel in advance if you expect to arrive late.
Pets are not permitted on the property. Certain facilities and private baths can be reserved for exclusive use, but full privatization of the hotel is not offered.
The hotel sits on Lake Kameyama with activities like lake cruises, fishing, hiking and cycling nearby; local sightseeing and seasonal foliage are highlights. Immediate lakeside shopping is limited, and convenience stores or supermarkets are best reached by a short drive or taxi.