Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Premium Shirahama Saichoraku
7,1/10 Very good - Based on 435 reviews
Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Premium Shirahama Saichoraku is a seaside ryokan-style resort centered on communal hot-spring bathing and relaxed, family-oriented facilities. The property’s public baths include a tatami-style indoor bathing area and multiple outdoor onsen pools, with separate bathing times and a day-use program that runs morning and evening; towels are available for rent and there are rules governing tattoo coverage in communal baths. Framed by coastal views, the grounds also feature a seasonal outdoor pool and a sauna, making it a well-equipped ryokan with onsen in Wakayama for guests seeking both large public onsen spaces and leisure facilities on site.
Accommodation spans broadly themed room types across roughly 160 rooms, including Japanese, Western and mixed layouts, with standard in-room amenities such as yukata robes, air conditioning and complimentary Wi‑Fi. Several room categories offer private bathing options, and in mid-2025 the property introduced eleven additional ocean-view rooms with terrace open-air baths to expand options for guests who want in-room bathing and sea panoramas. Room configurations are designed to suit families and groups, with larger Japanese-style sections and flexible bedding arrangements.
Dining emphasizes an extensive buffet program that was updated to include the property’s branded multi-star buffet offering, alongside à la carte and set-menu choices at on-site restaurants. On-site leisure amenities include a kids’ corner, game room, a premium lounge for adults, spa treatments and 24-hour reception services; practical conveniences cover free parking and shuttle arrangements depending on schedules. The resort’s combination of communal hot-spring facilities, expanded ocean-view bathing rooms and family-focused amenities positions it as a practical choice for multi-generational stays or longer coastal breaks.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Premium…
Positive Reviews
Delicious, abundant buffet dining
Multiple guests praised the breakfasts and dinners—large buffets with many dishes, fresh/steamed seafood and high quality overall. Several reviewers said they enjoyed the variety so much they couldn’t try everything.
Very good onsen and bathing facilities
The hot spring baths (public and private) were highlighted as excellent. Reviewers specifically noted the quality of the onsen experience and additional bathing amenities.
Helpful, polite staff and service
Staff were described as attentive and courteous, helping with requests, taking photos for guests and resolving issues (for example refunding an overcharge). Guests appreciated the friendly service.
Family‑friendly amenities and entertainment
Many reviewers noted family-oriented features such as free drink lounges, game center/children’s play options, drink/alcohol services and facilities that kept children entertained.
Extra conveniences and relaxing extras
Guests liked additional amenities such as foot/seat massage machines, free post‑bath drinks and, in some cases, spacious rooms—these added to the relaxing stay.
Negative Reviews
Swimming pool frequently closed or limited
Several guests complained the outdoor pool was closed (or had very limited hours), which disappointed families who expected to use it. Reviewers said pool availability should be clearer in listings.
Cleanliness, odors and occasional pests
There were multiple reports of cleanliness problems and unpleasant odors: dirty window rails, grimy areas near rooms, damp/musty bedding, nasal irritation on entry, and isolated pest sightings (cockroach, centipede).
Rooms and facilities feel dated or small
A number of guests described rooms as old or in need of refurbishment; others found certain room types small or with unimpressive views.
Complicated layout and accessibility concerns
Several reviews mentioned confusing corridors, many stairs and long walks to rooms—this was inconvenient for families with small children and potentially unsafe or difficult for elderly guests.
Dining comfort and facility issues
Some guests noted problems in dining areas: mixed seating causing crowding (families vs adults), overly cold air conditioning in the buffet room, drink‑bar issues (paper cups, large ice), and occasional food quality concerns (e.g., a tough steak).
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from doubles to large Japanese-style family rooms; some family rooms can accommodate up to ten guests on futons—check the selected room’s maximum occupancy when booking.
The property features large public baths including indoor tatami-style baths, outdoor rotenburo, a sauna and a seasonal outdoor pool; there is also a reservable family/private bath and some rooms with private outdoor tubs.
Public baths typically require nude bathing and washing before entering, and guests with tattoos may be restricted from using public bathing areas; family/private baths may allow swimwear but please confirm with the property.
The ryokan offers a complimentary shuttle service; guests should confirm shuttle pickup/drop-off locations and timetables with the property in advance.
For international travel Kansai International Airport is commonly used (about two hours by car); for short domestic flights Nanki‑Shirahama Airport is much closer and convenient when flights are available.
The property lists multilingual staff and English-speaking staff are typically available, though proficiency may vary; request assistance at reception if you need language help.
Standard check-in typically begins at 15:00 and check-out is usually by 11:00; check your reservation for any variations.
There is an on-site restaurant offering a premium buffet with local seafood and Japanese dishes for breakfast and dinner; dinner seating times may be scheduled—confirm during check-in or with your booking.
Popular nearby spots include Shirahama Beach, the Sandanbeki cliffs and Shirahama Energy Land; the hotel can assist with local recommendations and tickets.
Private/family baths and rooms with private tubs are available by reservation; pets are not permitted, and convenience stores and supermarkets are a short drive away for basic supplies.