Hotel Kikunoya

The staff gave amazing service. After we checked out, they noticed we’d left a charging cable in the room and ran down the hills to catch up with us and return it. The rooms were large by Japanese standards, and the clean onsen felt special. Dinner was delicious, though be warned, there are a lot of oysters, steamed, fried, boiled, all kinds.

Our room was clean, and the transportation made everything convenient. My partner and I stayed one night and had a great experience, especially thanks to Hiro, whose name tag said “Itch.” He drove us to and from the ferry station and was kind and helpful throughout. At check-in I realized my passport was missing. Hiro helped my partner contact the train station where I’d lost it. When we returned to the island, he picked us up, suggested a great breakfast spot, and showed us so much care. We didn’t get a chance to say goodbye, but we’re truly grateful for his support and hospitality.

I highly recommend the meal plan. The traditional multi-course dinner was delicious, and breakfast the next morning was delightful. The onsen is small, but I had it to myself both late in the evening and early in the morning, which made it really relaxing. This small ryokan-style Japanese inn made our Miyajima visit more memorable. It’s near the start of the Mt Misen trail and within walking distance of the town attractions and ferry terminal, though the inn also offers a free shuttle to and from the pier.

The people working here were the best part. Everyone was friendly and easy to talk to, with great energy, and they offer shuttle rides to and from the ferry station as well as the night cruise. I stayed one night to see Miyajima. The basic tatami room had a small indoor balcony with a decent view of the torii gate. There was a toilet, but as is typical in a ryokan, bathing and showering happen in the onsen. I know there are more premium rooms and fancier ryokans on the island, but for what the place offers, the simpler room felt like better value. Dinner and breakfast were both delicious. I also liked being able to book Miyajima activities online with my reservation, and the night cruise to the torii gate was a great experience. The location is incredibly convenient, though the ryokan sits on a hill and walking can get tiring. Head uphill to reach the ropeway in a few minutes, or downhill toward Itsukushima shrine. It’s amazing how close the major spots are.