Shinki
7,2/10 Very good - Based on 23 reviews
Shinki is a traditional Japanese inn located in the Ikaho onsen district of Shibukawa in Gunma Prefecture. The property offers communal thermal facilities, including an indoor pool-style bath and an open-air bath set within the building, supported by a small spa area and massage chairs. The atmosphere is practical and service-oriented, with on-site entertainment options such as a karaoke room; it functions as a ryokan with onsen Shibukawa, Gunma rather than as a boutique or luxury retreat.
Guest accommodation is mainly Japanese-style with tatami flooring and futon bedding; rooms come with heating and air conditioning, a flat-screen television, electric kettle, small refrigerator and en-suite bathrooms with bathtub and shower. Meals follow a traditional format and are served in the dining area for small bookings, while groups of five or more may be accommodated in the dining room. Practical amenities include free on-site parking, public Wi‑Fi in shared areas and meeting spaces; check-in is normally between 15:00 and 18:00 and check-out by 10:00. Note that access to public baths may be restricted for guests with visible tattoos and pets are not accepted.
The ryokan sits within easy walking distance of local highlights such as the Ikaho Stone Steps, a local museum dedicated to modern art, and the Ikaho ropeway, providing straightforward access to nearby mountain scenery and short day trips. The location and communal bath facilities make it a convenient choice for families and small groups seeking a straightforward onsen experience in the Ikaho area, with direct access to public hot-spring bathing and sufficient parking for visitors exploring the surrounding countryside; this ryokan with onsen Gunma is a practical base for those prioritizing thermal baths and local sightseeing.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Shinki
Positive Reviews
Friendly, attentive staff
Multiple guests praised the staff’s responsiveness and warm service, noting helpfulness at check‑in, energetic staff, and good overall guest care.
Clean, relaxing onsen with nice views
Reviewers consistently enjoyed the onsen — described as clean, comfortable and with good views — providing a relaxing hot‑spring experience.
Spacious, tidy rooms
Several guests said rooms were roomy, matched the photos, and were kept clean despite being described as older or dated.
Traditional Japanese experience and good meals
Many appreciated the hotel for offering a Japanese ryokan experience; a number of reviews mentioned beautiful or plentiful meals and an authentic atmosphere.
Useful complimentary amenities and extras
Guests liked free amenities such as morning coffee and free table tennis, plus conveniences like parking when arriving early, which enhanced their stay.
Negative Reviews
Building maintenance and cleanliness problems
Some guests reported serious maintenance issues (dirty carpets, falling ceiling, broken tiles around baths) and overall signs of poor upkeep that raised health and comfort concerns.
Dated facilities and gloomy common areas
Multiple reviews noted that the property and facilities feel old or worn; specific complaints included dark hallways and outdated fixtures impacting the atmosphere.
Private bath, onsen hours and extra charges
Criticisms included short onsen hours, expensive paid private baths with poor privacy or views, and unexpected fees (e.g. charged for ice), which some felt made the stay overpriced.
Inconsistent food quality and portion issues
While some praised the meals, others described low‑quality or meager dishes, or menus with too many items to finish; one guest reported food served all at once and disappointing quality.
Practical inconveniences (signage, outlets, noise)
Guests mentioned practical negatives such as unclear location signage, limited power outlets in rooms, squeaky/to noisy doors, and disruptive noise from adjacent common areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary: some rooms sleep 2–4 guests, special family rooms can accommodate up to eight people; please contact the ryokan directly for large-group bookings or specific room setups.
Yes — the property has indoor and outdoor onsen including a top-floor panoramic bath with mountain views and gender-separated bathing that rotates; standard onsen etiquette and rules apply.
Yes — there are two reservable private family baths available for guests (advance reservation is recommended); day-use may be possible subject to availability.
The ryokan does not offer an airport shuttle; there is regular public transport access by bus from JR Shibukawa to Ikaho, and the ryokan is a short walk from the Ikaho bus terminal.
Typical routes are train or bus to Shibukawa (or Takasaki) followed by the local bus to Ikaho Onsen, or driving via the Shibukawa‑Ikaho interchange with parking available on site; travel time varies by route and traffic.
Staff are primarily Japanese and English support is limited; if you need English assistance, please contact the ryokan in advance to confirm help for your arrival and stay.
The ryokan serves traditional multi‑course meals featuring local Gunma ingredients and seasonal dishes, with meals typically served in the dining area or private dining depending on plan and party size; note the property has limited ability to modify dishes for food-allergy needs.
Shinki is close to Ikaho Stone Steps, the Takehisa Yumeji Museum, the Ikaho Onsen area and ropeway, and scenic destinations like Lake Haruna and Mount Haruna for day trips.
Standard check‑in begins mid‑afternoon and check‑out is by mid‑morning; the ryokan asks guests to inform them of expected arrival times in advance to ensure smooth check‑in.
Pets are not permitted at the property; Ikaho town has convenience stores, shops and restaurants within walking distance, and on‑site parking is available for guests.