Musashi
8,2/10 Excellent - Based on 779 reviews
Musashi is a traditional coastal ryokan set steps from Shirahama’s white-sand shoreline, presenting 148 guest rooms that largely follow Japanese-style layouts with tatami flooring and futon bedding. Several room categories offer sea views and higher-tier Nagitei rooms include access to an exclusive lounge and elevated open-air bathing. Practical facilities cover free public parking, a station shuttle on a first-come basis, in-room amenities such as flat-screen TV and electric kettle, and communal Wi‑Fi; the property also hosts banquet and meeting spaces that accommodate large groups.
Bathing and wellness are central here: the property draws on local spring sources to furnish a range of hot-spring experiences, from large indoor baths and all-night open-air pools to rooftop panorama baths reserved for specific guest categories. There are two semi open-air private baths available for rental alongside sauna, air-bubble and cold plunge options, and on-site spa and massage services for targeted treatments. These features make Musashi a clear example of a ryokan with onsen Wakayama, while the rentable private baths support its appeal as a ryokan with private onsen Wakayama for couples and families seeking exclusivity.
Dining follows a buffet format for breakfast and dinner with additional Japanese-course options at an in-house restaurant, and public areas include a bar, lounge, karaoke room and a gift shop selling local specialties. The ryokan’s coastal location gives easy access to local sights such as scenic rock formations and a family attraction park, making it a convenient base for both leisurely seaside stays and regional sightseeing. Staffed multilingual services and accessibility features aim to accommodate a wide range of guests.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Musashi
Positive Reviews
Friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviews highlight welcoming and helpful staff who provide a warm check‑in, explain amenities, and offer small touches (e.g. complimentary drinks and snacks) that enhance the stay.
Excellent onsen facilities
Guests praise a variety of hot spring options — indoor, open‑air, private springs and a large cave onsen — many available across floors and open late, providing a relaxing ryokan onsen experience.
Great location near beach and attractions
The hotel is consistently noted for its excellent location: walking distance to a beautiful beach (Engetsuto/urban beach), nearby restaurants and local attractions, often with sea views from rooms.
Clean, spacious Japanese‑style rooms
Many reviewers appreciated the traditional Japanese rooms being clean and roomy, describing them as a pleasant modern ryokan experience and suitable for families.
Good food and extra amenities
Food quality receives strong mentions — buffet meals and kaiseki are praised — and guests enjoy extras such as free cold juice, ice cream, and complimentary drinks during meals.
Negative Reviews
Some areas feel dated
Several guests noted older interior design elements (carpets, wallpapers) and an overall '80s/dated feel in parts of the property, which may not match expectations of a modern look.
Parking and access inconveniences (especially Annex/Hanare)
Reviews report that cars cannot drive directly to some buildings; parking is offsite or requires a shuttle, and staying in the Annex can mean long, dark corridors, multiple lifts and difficult luggage transfers.
Limited or missing beach amenities and direct access
International guests found a lack of beach services (no provided beach towels or rentals for chairs/umbrellas) and in some cases no direct on‑site beach access, making beach trips less convenient.
Meal booking and buffet timing issues
There is confusion about meal options: kaiseki choices may not be selectable through some booking platforms, and buffet service can run out of certain hot/grilled items at later seatings if not replenished promptly.
Weak Wi‑Fi in some rooms
At least one guest reported very weak Wi‑Fi (e.g. higher floors), which can be inconvenient for those who need reliable internet during their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from twin-style rooms for two to traditional Japanese rooms with up to five futons; the property has 148 rooms and can accommodate large groups.
Musashi uses two natural spring sources and offers an open-air bath, large and medium indoor baths, air-bubble and cold baths, and a sauna; basic bath amenities and room towels are provided.
Yes — the ryokan operates private semi open-air baths that can be reserved for exclusive use; advance reservation with the hotel is required.
A free shuttle runs between JR Shirahama Station and the ryokan; seats are limited so you should contact the hotel to reserve in advance, as service is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The ryokan is about a 10-minute taxi or local bus ride from Nanki Shirahama Airport; you can also travel via Shirahama Station and use the hotel shuttle.
The hotel website and information are available in English and staff can assist English-speaking guests; multilingual support is also provided for other East Asian languages on site.
Musashi serves buffet-style breakfast and dinner with Japanese and Western choices, operates an on-site Japanese restaurant and a bar/lounge, and recommends booking meal attendance when you reserve your room.
Pets are not permitted on the property. Private use of baths and banquet/meeting rooms is possible by reservation for events or private gatherings.
The ryokan sits in front of the Shirahama Bus Center, a short walk to Shirarahama Beach and Engetsu Islet, and is close to attractions such as Senjojiki cliffs, Sandanbeki caves and Adventure World.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00; if you expect a late arrival, contact the ryokan in advance so they can note your arrival time.