Kurhaus Ishibashi Ryokan
6,8/10 Good - Based on 130 reviews
Kurhaus Ishibashi Ryokan is a modest, traditionally styled inn set in the Rendaiji area of Shimoda, Shizuoka. Interiors favor tatami flooring, shoji screens and futon bedding; many rooms include a private bathroom and basic refrigeration while lighting and decorative touches aim for a quietly classic ambiance. The property presents a blend of communal spaces for reading and light socialising alongside practical conveniences such as on‑site parking and Wi‑Fi, making it suitable for guests who want a straightforward Japanese stay near the southern Izu coast.
Bathing is the defining feature here: the ryokan maintains a range of onsite hot‑spring facilities that include indoor baths, open‑air baths and reservable options, allowing visitors to experience both shared and secluded soaking. With multiple pools fed by the local spring source, the property positions itself as a ryokan with onsen in Shimoda, Shizuoka while also offering reservable private tubs for those seeking added privacy; the layout allows different rhythms of use so guests can choose quiet early‑morning dips or longer evening soaks.
Meals follow a traditional pattern, with Japanese breakfasts and multi‑course dinners available on request and served in a communal dining area; menus tend to emphasize regional seafood and seasonal produce. Onsite amenities include a small art display area, a compact library, light recreational options such as karaoke and table tennis, and facilities aimed at family stays as well as couples. Its location a short walk from the local rail stop makes the ryokan a practical base for exploring nearby beaches, shrines and the aquarium while returning each day to the calm of a ryokan with private onsen in Shizuoka.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kurhaus Ishibashi Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Authentic historic atmosphere
Multiple guests praised the ryokan’s long history and unique, old‑style architecture (tunnel entrance, maze‑like corridors), describing it as a memorable, time‑stepping experience that many travelers enjoy.
Large, pleasant onsen with good water
The public baths were frequently highlighted as a major plus — spacious indoor and outdoor baths with good water quality that guests found relaxing and beneficial for the skin.
Friendly, attentive staff
Reviewers noted that the owners and staff were welcoming, helpful and polite, contributing positively to the stay despite the property’s age.
Comfortable beds and clean rooms (where renovated)
Several guests commented that futons/beds were comfortable and that rooms, particularly those with recently renewed toilets or washlets, were kept clean enough for a restful sleep.
Good value for a traditional ryokan
Many guests felt the price was fair for the experience — staying in a historic ryokan with onsen access was seen as good value, especially for those seeking traditional character over modern convenience.
Negative Reviews
Aged property with visible wear and maintenance needs
Numerous reviews mention the building is old and partly run‑down: worn floorboards, creaking doors/stairs, outdated fixtures and overall need for repairs or modernization in places.
Cleanliness issues and dust/allergy concerns
Some guests reported dust and related allergy symptoms, and a few noted cleanliness problems (including one room with a noticeable urine smell), suggesting inconsistent housekeeping in certain rooms.
Small or dated bathroom facilities
Several reviews pointed out that bathrooms and toilets can be small or outdated (though some rooms had recently renovated toilets), and some guests found toilet maintenance lacking.
Remote location and limited nearby amenities
The ryokan is in a somewhat remote area: guests warned it can be a bit far from attractions or beaches, with few nearby restaurants and occasional weak Wi‑Fi in corner rooms — better suited to guests with a car.
Noise and check‑in/communication issues
A few reviewers experienced noise between adjoining rooms or creaky floors at night, and some advised contacting staff ahead to arrange check‑in times because communication about arrivals can be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most Japanese-style rooms fit up to four guests on futon bedding; extra beds and cribs are not available.
The property offers multiple hot-spring baths including open-air and public baths plus a hot tub, with a variety of bathing options for day visitors.
The ryokan does not list a regular airport shuttle; the nearest train stop (Izukyu Rendaiji / Rendaiji Station) is within a short walk and is the usual arrival point.
Typical routes use the Odoriko or shinkansen to Atami then the Izu Kyuko Line to Izukyu-Shimoda, followed by a local train or short taxi to Rendaiji.
Japanese is the primary language at this traditional ryokan; staff may offer limited English but guests should expect mainly Japanese service.
Check-in generally begins at 15:00 (3:00 PM) and check-out is by 10:00 AM, with the property noting specific windows on booking.
A Japanese breakfast and multi-course (kaiseki) dinner are available on request and are typically served in the dining room; meal reservations are requested at check-in.
Public bathing areas may restrict guests with visible tattoos; private or reserved baths are not guaranteed—ask the front desk about any private-use options.
The ryokan is close to Shimoda attractions such as Shimoda Aquarium, Shirahama Shrine and local beaches, with small shops and convenience stores in the wider Rendaiji/Shimoda area.
Pets are not permitted at the property; full privatization of the ryokan is not standard—contact the property directly to discuss group or private-bath arrangements.