Uminoniwa
9,4/10 Exceptional - Based on 32 reviews
Uminoniwa is a small coastal ryokan set above the shoreline of Kamogawa in the Kominato area of Chiba. The property offers six rooms in a mix of Japanese-style and Japanese–Western layouts, several with hinoki or view baths, and rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, a refrigerator and flat-screen television. The inn operates as an adults-focused retreat (children under 12 are not accepted) and preserves a quiet, intimate atmosphere that suits couples and small groups seeking a relaxed seaside stay.
The bathing facilities combine communal marble and tatami-lined indoor baths with a rooftop reserved open-air bath called "Umi no Toki," which can be used as a private soaking option for guests. Public baths are arranged to frame seasonal sky and sea views, while select room types provide in-room timber tubs or view baths, offering flexibility between shared and secluded bathing. These arrangements make the property a clear example of a ryokan with private onsen in Chiba for travelers who want both communal onsen culture and the option of solitary outdoor soaking.
Meals are presented in the second-floor dining area "Kura," where multi-course dinners emphasize local seafood and breakfast is served as a set meal; room service is not provided. Practical facilities include free parking, a limited shuttle connection with the nearby station and a small staff team focused on discreet, personalized service and guest privacy. With compact grounds, ocean-facing viewpoints and a handful of rooms, Uminoniwa functions as a coastal ryokan retreat and serves as a ryokan with private onsen in Minami-Boso, Chiba for those prioritizing seascape views and tranquil bathing.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
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Review summary for: Uminoniwa
Positive Reviews
Outstanding seafood and memorable meals
Many guests praised the food—especially the fresh seafood—describing meals as very delicious, abundant and expertly prepared. Multiple reviews highlight both dinner and breakfast as standout elements of the stay.
Friendly, attentive staff and warm hospitality
Reviewers repeatedly noted polite, kind and attentive service. The staff’s thoughtful care and traditional hospitality contributed strongly to guests’ positive impressions.
Clean, well-maintained rooms
Guests reported high levels of cleanliness, with rooms thoroughly cleaned and attention to small details creating a comfortable, tidy environment.
Complimentary drinks (welcome beer) and extras
Several guests appreciated the welcome drink offering—free beer and a self-serve drink area—which was mentioned as a popular and generous amenity.
Scenic setting, relaxing atmosphere and onsen access
Visitors enjoyed the garden, scenery and room views, and many found the overall atmosphere very relaxing. The availability of a private/open-air bath (one free use per stay reported) was highlighted as a pleasing onsen feature.
Negative Reviews
Meal portions can be overly large
Some guests felt the quantity of food was excessive—several mentioned being unable to finish the dishes or that portions were too large for comfortable consumption.
Pacing of meals felt rushed for some
At least one reviewer wished they could have enjoyed the meal more slowly; while the food was excellent, the timing/pace of service made it harder to relax and savor each course.
Private open-air bath can be small
A few guests noted the private (shared) open-air bath was narrow and felt cramped for two people, which limited comfort during use.
Limited variety at the drink bar beyond beer
While the free beer was appreciated, some visitors hoped for more cold beverage options at the drink bar in addition to beer.
Minor facility issues (air-conditioning odor)
One review mentioned a noticeable smell from the air-conditioning in the room. This was cited as a minor negative amid otherwise positive facility comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Uminoniwa is a small, adult-only ryokan with a limited number of rooms (officially six after the 2022 renovation); rooms range from twin layouts to Japanese-style rooms that can sleep up to four people depending on the type.
Yes; the property has a public hot-spring bath (Kura no Yu) and an ocean-view open-air (rotenburo) that can be used as a private/family bath on request.
Shuttle or station pickup is offered on request—most guests use Awa‑Kominato Station as the nearest rail access; contact the ryokan in advance to arrange pickup.
The property is roughly 53 miles from Narita; typical routes are by car or by train to Awa‑Kominato Station followed by a short walk or arranged pickup—check travel options and request transfer details with the ryokan.
Some staff speak limited English; basic English support is available but Japanese is preferred for detailed requests.
The ryokan serves traditional fisherman-style Japanese meals (dinner and breakfast) focused on fresh local seafood; dinner is served onsite and you should notify the ryokan of any dietary needs in advance.
Uminoniwa is adult-only and does not accept children or pets.
Yes—there are private/family onsen options and the property offers whole‑house (full privatization) plans; contact the ryokan directly to arrange reservations and availability.
There is no shop on site; basic convenience stores and small shops are located in the Awa‑Kominato area near the station—ask the ryokan for exact directions and opening hours.
Standard check-in is 15:00–18:00 and check-out is by 10:00; inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time, and note that guests should check in by around 17:00 if they wish to be served dinner.