Natural Hot Spring Inn Choseian – 長生庵 –
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 7 reviews
Set within a gardened compound on a quiet slope above the resort town, this compact, adults-only hideaway blends restored kominka architecture and restrained modern fittings to create calm, private spaces. Rooms range from standalone annexes to renovated main-house suites, some arranged around small courtyards and sliding screens that open onto planted views. The property presents itself as a small-scale ryokan focused on measured hospitality and seasonal presentation rather than large-scale resort services — a practical choice for travelers seeking a ryokan with onsen Shirahama experience close to beaches and local attractions.
The hotel operates its own source-fed baths and promotes the spring as a true gensenkakenagashi (continuous-flow) onsen; guests are routinely offered use of a compact, reservable tsubo-yu (private tub) at no extra charge and some guestrooms include in-room or semi-open-air tubs for solitary soaking. There is also an on-site day-bath facility linked to the property that residents may use, and bathing areas are presented simply and cleanly with attention to privacy and water quality. For travellers prioritizing seclusion, this ryokan with private onsen Wakayama provides assured access to natural spring water and a quiet bathing rhythm.
Meals are served as carefully composed kaiseki-style courses that highlight local seafood, Kumano beef and seasonal vegetables, typically presented in semi-private dining spaces to preserve intimacy. Practical amenities include free parking, property-wide Wi‑Fi, a non-smoking policy indoors and a small live-bar for post-dinner drinks; English-speaking staff are available to assist with local arrangements. With a deliberately small room inventory and an emphasis on garden views, thermal waters and handcrafted cuisine, the inn suits visitors who want an intimate, well-appointed base for exploring Shirahama and the wider Wakayama coast.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Natural Hot Spring Inn Choseia…
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, communicative staff
Staff were described as welcoming, responsive and easy to communicate with, contributing strongly to a positive stay.
Onsen facilities and nearby bathhouse
Guests enjoyed the hotel’s onsen and the nearby 長生湯 (a two-minute walk); both were reported as clean, with 長生湯 offering a stunning view of the starry sky at night.
Spacious rooms
The booked 4-person room was noted as very large—comfortable for two and roomy enough to accommodate many more (guest estimated space for up to six adults).
Good food and recommended house plum wine
Meals were described as delicious and satisfying; the house plum wine was specifically recommended as a must-try.
Convenient location and amenities
Parking is located right next to the hotel and there is a nearby restaurant for supper, making the stay convenient; overall guests found the stay excellent and good value for money.
Negative Reviews
Aucun point négatif trouvé.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by type: there are double/twin rooms for couples, larger rooms and a cottage-style annex that can sleep small groups (some rooms accommodate up to four with futon bedding). Check the specific room details when booking to confirm maximum guests for your chosen room.
Yes — the property has its own in-house baths and guests also have complimentary access to the larger public onsen facility 'Chosei no Yu' located directly opposite the ryokan. Multiple bath styles are available, including indoor and open-air options.
Yes, the ryokan offers a small private 'tsuboyu' (private bath) that guests can use free of charge for exclusive use; availability may depend on occupancy so ask at check‑in. Public-bath rules still apply when using shared facilities.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the nearest regional airport is Nanki‑Shirahama Airport. Guests normally reach the ryokan by local bus, train to Shirahama Station followed by a short taxi, or by car; contact the ryokan in advance if you need assistance arranging pickup.
Staff provide service in Japanese and English at a basic to conversational level. If you have specific language needs, notify the property before arrival.
The ryokan serves seasonal kaiseki-style meals highlighting local seafood and Kumano beef, generally presented in semi-private dining rooms. Light options and the nearby onsen-site noodle shop are also available for more casual dining.
Shirarahama Beach is within walking distance (around 15–25 minutes on foot) and popular sights such as Adventure World and the Shirahama Art Museum are a short drive away. The ryokan makes a convenient base for exploring the Shirahama resort area and coastal scenery.
The nearest major stop is Shirahama Station, which is roughly a 40–45 minute walk or a short taxi ride from the ryokan; local buses and taxis serve the area. From larger hubs like Osaka, travelers usually take train or express bus services to Shirahama and then a taxi or local bus.
Standard check‑in begins at 3:00 PM and check‑out is by 11:00 AM. The property asks guests to advise their expected arrival time in advance to ensure a smooth check‑in.
Pets are generally not accepted; contact the ryokan directly if you require an exception. The ryokan provides evening kaiseki meals and there are convenience stores, local eateries and supermarkets in Shirahama a short drive away for groceries and casual dining.