Ryujin Onsen Marui Ryokan
9,6/10 Exceptional - Based on 36 reviews
Nestled in a quiet mountain village of Ryūjin, this family-run ryokan sits beside a gently flowing river and leans on a long regional tradition of hot-spring hospitality. The property presents a compact, low-rise profile that blends timber and white plaster walls, and public areas emphasize wood and local crafts rather than modern gloss. Guests arrive to a calm lobby, complimentary yukata and slippers, and straightforward conveniences such as free Wi‑Fi and on-site parking, all arranged to support a short stay focused on relaxation rather than urban amenities.
Accommodations are strictly Japanese in style: tatami‑floored rooms with futon bedding, modest storage, and simple en-suite or shared washroom arrangements depending on the room type. Bathing facilities are a central feature — the ryokan connects to its cypress-lined hot spring baths via a short covered access and maintains both communal onsen and the option to reserve smaller family/couple bathing slots for greater privacy. This property is a practical choice for travelers searching for a ryokan with onsen Wakayama, offering an authentic bathing experience framed by the Hidaka River and surrounding forested slopes.
Meals are served in-house and highlight local seasonal produce, presented as thoughtfully composed multi-course dinners and morning fare that focus on regional ingredients rather than elaborate plating. Service is attentive and personal, reflecting a small‑inn operation where staff know regular rhythms and guest preferences. The location makes the ryokan a sensible base for exploring nearby cultural sites, short drives along scenic roads, and walking routes that showcase Wakayama’s mountain scenery, so guests planning a calm, restorative stay will find the setting straightforward and regionally rooted.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryujin Onsen Marui Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Warm traditional hospitality
Multiple guests praised the family-run, service-oriented staff for being very friendly, attentive and welcoming, creating an authentic Japanese ryokan experience.
Outstanding, beautifully presented meals
Dinner and breakfast were repeatedly described as exceptional—varied, fresh, well-presented and delicious, with hosts even accommodating special requests and explaining dishes when needed.
Unique, high-quality onsen experience
The onsen was highlighted as a standout feature: great water quality (described as silky and skin-smoothing), pleasant riverside views and in some cases private use, making it a memorable attraction.
Clean, comfortable traditional rooms
Guests commented on very clean, spacious Japanese-style rooms that felt comfortable and homely, contributing to a relaxing stay.
Helpful, personalised service and local assistance
Staff went beyond expectations by helping with practical matters (e.g., bus reservations, directions), providing translated notes or plans, and giving warm send-offs, which guests appreciated.
Negative Reviews
Onsen access can feel distant or require a walk
Several guests mentioned the path to the onsen (including a tunnel under the road) felt a bit long or inconvenient for some visitors.
Some rooms lack modern bathroom fittings
A few guests noted that certain rooms/toilets are not equipped with modern washlet toilets and that washbasins or bathroom areas felt small.
Minor food preferences/issues
While overall dining was praised, isolated comments mentioned specific items (for example, pickles) being slightly too salty for some tastes.
Pillow firmness concerns
At least one guest found the provided grain/firm pillow too hard, indicating bedding preferences may not suit everyone.
Communal bathing for some room types
Economy/standard rooms include shared bathing facilities for some guests, which may be less convenient for those expecting en-suite baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check-in begins at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00; please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time and note guests should arrive by 19:00 if they wish to be served dinner.
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with futons and are offered for different occupancies — common options sleep 2, 4, or up to 6 guests depending on the room type; confirm the exact capacity when booking.
The property has hot spring baths on site and a private bath can typically be reserved in advance; contact the ryokan before arrival to arrange reservations and hours.
Public-bath customs are traditional and tattoos may be restricted; guests with tattoos are advised to contact the ryokan in advance and consider reserving a private bath.
There is no advertised regular airport shuttle; the nearest airport is Nanki–Shirahama (about 40 km), and access is typically by taxi, rental car or regional bus — ask the ryokan about local transfer or taxi options when booking.
Free on-site private parking is available, but spaces are limited; notify the ryokan in advance if you plan to arrive by car.
The ryokan serves breakfast and traditional multi-course dinners (seasonal kaiseki or set meals); guests should request meals when booking and report any dietary restrictions ahead of arrival.
English support can be limited at rural ryokans; staff often manage basic English and local tourism information, so contact the ryokan in advance for special requests or arrive with printed directions if needed.
Pets are not allowed at the ryokan; full-property privatization is not a standard offering — private-use options are generally limited to reservable private baths rather than hiring the entire property.
The ryokan is in Ryujin Onsen area with nearby attractions such as the Kumanokodo trails, local temples and small museums; Tanabe town offers supermarkets and more dining options — the front desk can advise on nearby shops and walking or driving routes.