Shimoda Yamatokan
8,6/10 Excellent - Based on 350 reviews
Perched on a coastal hill above a white-sand bay, Shimoda Yamatokan is a traditional Japanese inn that pairs broad ocean-facing rooms with immediate access to the beach. Guest rooms are arranged to maximize sea views, combining tatami living areas with large windows and futon sleeping arrangements; several room types include private terraces. The property also offers seasonal outdoor swimming, on-site parking and a complimentary shuttle connection to the local train station, making it a practical base for exploring surrounding Izu coastline and nearby attractions.
Bathing is a central feature: the upper-level public baths provide panoramic vistas over the Pacific and a chance to relax in a classic onsen setting, while selected suites and a dedicated “Spa Villa” offer private open-air tubs for secluded soaks. Those seeking a ryokan with onsen Izu will find both communal rotenburo experiences and room-level privacy, and the availability of private open-air baths positions Shimoda Yamatokan as a ryokan with private onsen Shizuoka for travellers who prioritise solitude and sea-swept views.
Dining emphasises traditional presentation and local seafood, with multi-course kaiseki and set menus available alongside breakfast options; some plans include dinner service in a shared dining room. Practical amenities include free Wi‑Fi in public areas, multilingual front-desk support, and family-friendly facilities such as indoor play options and flexible room configurations. The combination of ocean vistas, accessible beach access and a mix of public and private bathing makes this ryokan a measured choice for travellers seeking a seaside hot-spring stay on the Izu coast of Shizuoka.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Shimoda Yamatokan
Positive Reviews
Spectacular sea views and beachfront location
Many reviewers praised the hotel’s location: most rooms offer panoramic sea views, direct access to the beach, and enjoyable sights such as surfers from the room or onsen.
Excellent onsen facilities (private and public)
Guests highlighted the hot-spring experience—private open-air baths (rotenburo) in some rooms and impressive public onsens (notably on the 5th floor), available at convenient hours.
Friendly, attentive staff and useful shuttle
Staff were repeatedly described as warm, helpful and accommodating (assisting with upgrades, dietary needs, etc.). Several guests appreciated the free shuttle service to the station.
Delicious, high-quality meals
Meals (dinner and traditional Japanese breakfast) were frequently noted as excellent: varied, well-presented and able to accommodate special dietary requirements.
Spacious, traditional Japanese-style rooms
Many rooms (especially the 50sqm types) were described as large, comfortable and authentically styled with relaxing outdoor decks or patios, contributing to a restful stay.
Negative Reviews
Property is showing its age
Multiple reviews mention tired decor, worn fittings and a generally aged appearance—several guests felt parts of the hotel (especially lower floors) need renovation or refreshing.
Cleanliness issues and unpleasant odors
Some guests reported musty or unpleasant smells in communal areas, evidence of dampness, mold in shower rooms and water leaks on carpets in corridors.
Outdated or run-down bathrooms in some rooms
Several reviewers noted that bathrooms and shower areas can be old or a bit dilapidated, with one describing a bathroom as ‘vétuste’ (worn) or moldy.
Rigid policies and occasional service/charge problems
Comments include strict adherence to check‑in times, unexpected fees (e.g., paid baggage storage), confusing billing or room allocation errors (e.g., bed allocation mistakes) requiring staff intervention.
Transport/scheduling inconveniences and some restrictions
A few guests found transport options/schedules inconvenient or inflexible. Additionally, the public onsen enforces restrictions (e.g., no tattoos), and isolated service quirks (timing of dishes) were noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary for couples, families and groups; many rooms accommodate 2–4 guests with futons, and some larger rooms combine beds and futons for up to about 6 guests depending on the room type.
Yes — the property features public hot spring baths and private open‑air baths; note that guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from public bathing areas.
Private spa villas (named PINE and BAMBOO) are available to reserve; they typically accommodate up to 4 people with additional charges applying above 5 persons and a stated maximum capacity (up to 8) for group use.
Yes — a scheduled shuttle runs between Shimoda Station and the hotel (Station→Hotel at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30, 17:00; Hotel→Station at 09:00, 09:30, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00).
You can take the Odoriko limited express directly from Tokyo to Shimoda (about 2 hours 45 minutes) or Shinkansen to Atami then the Izu line to Shimoda; by car the trip from Tokyo is roughly 3–3.5 hours, and from Narita use Narita Express into Tokyo before onward connections.
Staff at the property speak Japanese and English.
The ryokan serves Japanese/local cuisine with an Asian breakfast option; dinner is offered by reservation and guests are advised to book meals in advance because there are few restaurants within walking distance.
Pets are not allowed and the property does not permit parties or events; quiet hours are enforced in the evenings.
The nearest convenience store is about 0.6 miles (roughly 1 km) away, and there are no restaurants within immediate walking distance, so plan to use the ryokan’s dining options or bring supplies.
Check‑in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check‑out is from 07:00 to 11:00; the property entrance is closed between 22:00 and 07:00 and half‑board guests must check in by 18:00 to receive dinner.