Kira No Sato
8,8/10 Excellent - Based on 148 reviews
Kira No Sato sits on the wooded slopes of the Izu peninsula, presented as a calm, traditionally influenced resort that blends timbered architecture with modern comforts. The property markets itself as a ryokan with onsen in Shizuoka, offering a mix of tatami-style and Western rooms, standalone villas and suites; several accommodation types are fitted with direct access to hot spring water. Public areas emphasize mellow lighting and garden views, while room amenities commonly include yukata, en-suite facilities and tea equipment, with staff available to assist with English-language requests and local information.
The bathing facilities form the heart of the experience: a large communal bathing complex with indoor and open-air pools is complemented by multiple smaller private bathing chambers and villa baths that draw from the onsen source. Guests can choose a public bathing routine with varied temperatures and outdoor rotenburo sections, or reserve quieter private onsen spaces for couples or families; a limited number of rooms feature their own hot-spring baths for in-room relaxation. Spa treatments and massage services are offered alongside the onsen, and the property requests customary onsen etiquette for shared baths.
Meals follow a regional-forward approach, with evening multi-course choices and breakfast options that highlight local seafood and seasonal produce; dining is scheduled by seating times at check-in. Practical services include a complimentary shuttle connection to the nearest rail access on request, complimentary parking, Wi‑Fi in public spaces and an on-site reception that can arrange nearby excursions and activity suggestions. The overall offer positions Kira No Sato as a suitable ryokan with private onsen in Shizuoka for travelers seeking a measured mix of tradition, privacy and resort-scale bathing facilities.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kira No Sato
Positive Reviews
Wide variety of excellent onsen options
Guests repeatedly praised the baths — multiple spacious public onsens, several private baths (first-come, no reservation), and in‑room options. Reviewers described them as clean, relaxing and a highlight of the stay.
Warm, attentive staff and service
Many reviews mention highly helpful, accommodating staff who assist non‑Japanese speakers, handle food allergies, explain offerings, and enhance the experience with recommendations and prompt service.
Authentic traditional setting and beautiful nature
The ryokan’s village‑style layout, gardens, tatami rooms and surrounding forest/sea views were frequently highlighted. Guests enjoyed wandering the grounds and appreciated the peaceful, scenic atmosphere.
Delicious, plentiful food and complimentary snacks
Meals (kaiseki/seafood shabu‑shabu and set dinners) were described as excellent, aesthetic and filling. Guests also valued free evening snacks (oden, ramen, sweet potatoes) and the overall food quality.
Good comfort and useful amenities
Rooms were generally comfortable with tatami areas and good bedding; rooms included welcome snacks and tea/coffee. Several guests found the property value‑added by the shuttle from Izu‑Kogen and appreciated clean facilities and convenient extras.
Negative Reviews
Shuttle reliability and staff conduct issues
Some guests experienced problems with the courtesy shuttle — limited early morning times, communication gaps about pickup, and reports of a rude shuttle driver who delayed arrival and caused frustration.
Price perceived as high by some guests
A few reviewers felt the ryokan was expensive and questioned whether the cost fully matched the perceived value for their stay.
Aging rooms and tight fittings in places
Several comments noted the property’s traditional/older condition: furniture showing wear, areas that could use renovation, and some tight spaces (toilets/showers) that may feel cramped for larger visitors.
Food service and breakfast issues
While dinner was widely praised, a number of guests suggested breakfast could be improved, and one noted the meal service sometimes felt rushed. Others reported difficulty getting restaurant reservations for short stays.
Occasional cleanliness/bug concerns in specific cases
A small number of guests reported isolated issues — one saw specks in an in‑room onsen tub and another experienced a centipede bite — suggesting rare cleanliness/maintenance incidents in specific rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary from single to family-style Japanese rooms with tatami and futon; some rooms sleep small groups. Please add the exact number and ages of guests when booking to confirm correct occupancy.
The ryokan offers multiple public baths (indoor and outdoor), a sauna, and three small private open-air baths; the private baths are usually available on a first-come basis without advance reservation. Guests are provided yukata, and note that visible tattoos may restrict use of public bathing areas.
Yes; the property runs a shuttle to/from Izu-Kogen Station (short drive) — there are scheduled afternoon departures but you should confirm or request pickup in advance. Taxis are also readily available at the station if needed.
Haneda is the most convenient airport; typical routes use Keikyu/Shinkansen to Atami then the JR Ito/Izu Kyuko lines to Izu-Kogen, with total travel by public transport usually around 2–3 hours. Driving is also common and the ryokan has on-site parking for guests.
English-speaking staff and multilingual assistance are generally available, and the front desk can help with basic English inquiries and directions. If you need detailed translation help, mention this before arrival so staff can prepare.
There are two on-site restaurants serving Japanese and some Western-style set meals; typical dinner service is in the early evening and breakfast is served in the morning. The ryokan highlights local seafood dishes and also operates an evening ramen offering for guests.
Three private open-air baths are provided for guest use and are usually available without prior reservation on a first-come basis. Pets are not permitted on the property.
The ryokan has a small shop for souvenirs and basic items, and convenience stores and supermarkets are located near Izu-Kogen Station within a short taxi or shuttle ride. If you need specific supplies, the front desk can advise the closest options.
Popular nearby attractions include Izu Shaboten Zoo, Jogasaki Coast walking trails and suspension bridge, Izu Granpal amusement area, and local museums such as the trick-clock and automata museums. The ryokan’s grounds also offer strolls, a footbath, and seasonal farm experiences like rice planting and harvest events.
Standard check-in begins at 3:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM; guests should inform the property of their expected arrival time in advance. Photo ID is required at check-in and staff can assist with luggage and directions as needed.