Miyajima Hotel New Kotobuki

The room was cozy and clean, with a very comfortable bed. I also liked finding traditional Japanese robes and green tea there. The two resident cats are super cute. The lady working there was lovely, kind, and helpful. I'd love to stay again.

Staying on Miyajima, “God's Island,” felt very worthwhile to me. The island's lanes at night have a mysterious, almost spiritual feel, and Itsukushima Shrine is austere in the early morning when there are few visitors. It's also convenient for climbing Mt. Misen, where the joints (Setsuri) at the summit are spectacular. Back in November 2017, more than 90% of Hiroshima City hotels were booked, so I ended up booking this one for ¥28,080 per night including tax. The online photos made it look old and dingy, but in person it felt cozy and homey. They let us check in early, so we could travel light for the climb. There was plenty of room, and the fluffy futon laid out over tatami was comfortable to sleep on. Still, I wouldn't go so far as to recommend the hotel itself. Breakfast came with the stay, but it was so bad that I left without eating it and went to look for food. I headed toward Itsukushima Shrine early, but almost no shops were open, and there weren't any convenience stores either. By luck I found an open shop, bought snacks, and went back to the hotel.

We got to see the cats in the main sitting area, and the traditional rooms and available onsens made the stay even nicer. I also bought some cards at reception that the woman who runs the guesthouse had made, which was a lovely touch. We stayed one night and wished we could have stayed longer. The couple who run the place were warm and accommodating. I'd recommend it to anyone staying on Miyajima.

A great guest house, and very cheap for the island. The service was fantastic, and I loved the rooms and the onsen option for families. There's also a room with a microwave, kettle, free tea and coffee, plus some cats. It's in the town centre, just minutes from lots of places.