Soki Atami

The calm, slow pace was just what we wanted for a peaceful reset. It might not suit someone looking for lots to do or nightlife nearby, though. The room was spacious, clean, and relaxing, with a private onsen we could use whenever we wanted. The minimalist design fit beautifully with the natural surroundings, and little touches like the hallway scent and soft lighting seemed carefully chosen. Staff were warm and attentive, while still giving us room to enjoy the quiet. We left feeling refreshed. Soki Atami was a lovely ryokan-style stay with modern touches, and we’d consider coming back.

We stayed at Soki Atami from February 15 to 16 and had a memorable, very pleasant visit. The team’s care made a strong impression on us. Many of the staff were young, but they were enthusiastic and professional throughout. We’re especially grateful to the chef for preparing delicious vegetarian dishes with a soft texture for my mother, so she could eat comfortably and without worry. The service staff also took such attentive care of us and explained everything in clear, easy-to-follow English. The presentation of each dish and the thoughtful details across the service showed real dedication. Because of presbyopia, we couldn’t read the name tags clearly enough to thank the staff individually. Our heartfelt thanks and warm wishes go to the whole Soki team.

It’s a bit far from central Atami and not very convenient by public transport. I’d say it’s mainly a place to visit if you have a car. Parking wasn’t a problem for me, though. There’s a second covered lot with about 20 spaces just behind the building. Contact them in advance to reserve a space, as I did. I arrived at night in heavy rain, and the front lot was full. The staff immediately offered an umbrella and helped carry my luggage from the car to reception. At check-in, there was also a DIY potpourri activity to keep kids busy while you handle the paperwork. Our room was spotless and spacious, with excellent bedding and a gorgeous ocean view over Atami. It’s unusual to find a private Japanese-style bath, or onsen, right in the room, either in the bathroom or on the balcony. A good option if you have tattoos. I booked just a month ahead after my plans changed, and it turned into a real favorite, easily the most luxurious stay of my Japan trip. Well done, SOKI ATAMI team!

We paid about $650 a night for three midweek, off-season nights in February in a premium suite with a balcony onsen. That included one breakfast for two, which we enjoyed, though I expected the music to be more relaxing. We ate in town for our other meals. The hotel and rooms are pretty, and the design is very much our style, but the price felt high for what we got. It felt like a VRBO. There was no hospitality unless we went looking for staff. At checkout, nobody asked how the stay was. We were just told we owed for breakfast, handed a receipt, and left. After three nights it felt like renting an apartment. I imagine many guests stay one or two nights. We were also surprised that most couples and other guests looked to be in their 20s, which made me wonder if they were getting much better rates, perhaps through midweek deals we didn’t get. The hotel onsen closed every day from 10:30am to 3pm, which was a huge annoyance. On a rainy afternoon, it would have been a nice activity, and the closure got in the way more than once. The eighth-floor lounge had a lovely, serene feel when we went one night, but getting tea was awkward because it seemed set up for cocktails. We were told there was no tea. The bartender found some free tea from our room, then charged us for it. That was surprising. When eight other guests arrived and ordered cocktails, the bartender shook ice so loudly it was deafening. The lounge stopped feeling relaxing, and we left soon after. Sake or wine would have been quieter options. It was also a hassle to keep uncovering and covering the balcony onsen with its four heavy wooden pieces. The water didn’t stay hot unless we did that. We learned the hard way when we took a late-night soak after dinner and found it cold. It should stay hot automatically like the public bath on the third floor, even when uncovered. One last thing: for what the hotel seems to be based on, I was surprised to see plastic toothbrushes and razors when every other hotel we stayed at used bamboo.