Ginpaso

The hot spring baths overlooking the sea were a highlight for us. There are two sides, with access rotating between morning and evening for men and women, so try to visit at both times. A sauna and a cold plunge pool are available too. The plunge temperature varies by side, around 9°C to 18°C. The baths and the lounge outside, with its three massage couches, were very clean. We also noticed the hotel's foundation of preserved rock, said to be millions of years old, on the lower floors. We were welcomed warmly, and the lobby lounge looks out over the sea and sunset. Our tatami room had sea views as well, including sunrise and sunset through the windows. It had a toilet and sink, traditional futon beds, and a table with two chairs by the window. The hotel is in a seaside town in Ako, Hyogo. Getting there by train was straightforward, and Google Maps showed us the quickest, easiest, and cheapest route. You can also book the free shuttle from Banshu-Ako station, at the end of the San-yo line, by calling ahead for a scheduled pickup. We were really glad we booked the Kaiseki meals with our stay. Breakfast and dinner were both satisfying, with carefully chosen regional and seafood flavors. Staff explained each course, and the fresh, unusually fatty sashimi was a favorite. The wine list was excellent too, including the house wine by the glass, which paired well with the food. There’s a gift shop with local sweets, specialty flavored salts, which I recommend buying, and other souvenirs. The service felt premium, and the staff took especially good care of us. We left with memories we’d love to make again. Three nights would be ideal if you can manage it.

The building has a modern, minimalist look after its renovation, and the staff were helpful even though they spoke very little English. What I loved most was soaking in the onsen with the sea view. I had a great time and would recommend visiting at least once. 😄 The baths switch between genders on different days, so arriving earlier may give you a chance to try both, one during the day and the other at night.

The outdoor area by the hotel lobby has much the same view as the hot spring. The pool is wide enough that even with several people around, I could find a spot without my view blocked. Watching the sunset from the hot spring was amazing. For sunrise, though, the view might be better from the temple just outside the hotel.

The spa was great, with a clean hot spring and a new sauna, and you can see the ocean from the bath. The lobby lounge is beautiful and modern, with a clear sea view. My room was traditional Japanese style, with no bed. You can walk alongside the hotel to look out over the calm ocean, with birds around. The food was good, all Japanese seafood. The quality was nice, though I felt you could find seafood of similar quality at a local market in the area, which I think is down to the region rather than the hotel. Portions may feel small if you're used to Western food, especially by the standards of costly hotels in Japan. Hospitality was good, though I'm not sure about English support.