Kamimura

We had a wonderful time thanks to the food, the hot springs, and the landlady and staff. I slept so deeply on the futon, probably the best sleep I've ever had, lol. There's a shuttle bus from Atami Station, but you need to book ahead.

The food was a real highlight. Breakfast and dinner both had satisfying variety, taste, and presentation, and the rooftop open-air bath and family bath were clean and comfortable. The staff were kind and the place felt homey, just like a classic Japanese hot spring inn. I forgot to request the shuttle before arriving, but a taxi was only about 1,000 yen. There are a few things to know: there's no elevator and lots of steps, which could make getting around difficult for elderly or disabled guests. Wi-Fi only worked on the first floor, and meal times didn't feel very flexible. Still, if I want a nostalgic Japanese-style inn with meals served in the room, I'd stay again, as long as my knees and back hold up.

The location is quiet and a little away from the city center. There's a shuttle, which makes that distance manageable, and it may even be a plus. The room was an 8-tatami space, plenty for two people, with the charm of an old-fashioned inn. It felt dated, but had what we needed and was relaxing. I'd have liked Wi-Fi in the guest rooms too, since it was only available on the first floor. We missed the explanation that the station shuttle needed to be booked in advance, but they kindly called us that morning and we were able to use it. At check-in they explained the baths and dinner choices, then let us know when the room was ready. They were thoughtful during the meal and when laying out the futons. I felt a little bad seeing them carry our meals up the stairs and set up the beds, especially since many of the guests were older. Thank you. You can buy drinks from the refrigerator or at the nearby 7-Eleven. We picked up canned chu-hi there for dinner. The hot water takes a while to come through, so just let it run for a bit. The open-air bath is free, and 19,000 yen for a room meal plan with two meals felt like great value. I'd stay again.

We stayed with our family just before Golden Week, two adults and our 2.5-year-old. With advance notice, they can pick you up and drop you off. The staff made the place feel like a grandparent's house in the countryside, and were so kind to our child. When he bumped his head, they lent us an ice pack and checked on him. He also loved the family open-air bath. Our room had an ocean view. The building is old, but everything we needed was well maintained and worked fine. There's no elevator, though the staff carried our luggage up to the room. It was a very homey, comfortable stay.