Miyajima Seaside Hotel

The onsen was amazing, and the souvenir shop had some great finds. We also loved the food, so I’m glad we ate both breakfast and dinner at the hotel. It’s a beautiful place with lovely water views and deer wandering past. We stayed at the Miyajima Seaside Hotel December 5th-7th, and all three of us, my husband, sister, and I, absolutely loved it. We weren’t sure what to expect after booking through the United Travel site, but the hotel went beyond what was listed. The shuttle ran to and from the port at set times, and there was a night shuttle for a walk by the Itsukushima Gate. I fell in love with the hotel and plan to book again on our next Japan trip. Thank you for such warm hospitality!

The traditional meals came with tasty choices and detailed explanations, and the menu changes, so you won’t be eating the same thing every day. The hotel also provides futons, which the staff set up while you’re having dinner. I’m not sure how they arrange that if you choose the dinner option, but I’m sure they’ll ask. The onsen was excellent, with separate areas for men and women. It’s public, and has combs, razors, a hair dryer and towels. Remember to bring your room towel. There’s also a shuttle from the ferry station, and you can use it to get to the main part of the island with the ferry, restaurants and tourist attractions. Amazing hotel, very professional staff, and they take care of everything you need.

The free ferry shuttle made getting to the hotel easy, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Our clean, comfortable Japanese-style room had tatami, futon bedding and a sea view. There are a few Western-style rooms too. Dinner stood out, with several courses of fresh local seafood. Breakfast was Japanese-style and fine, though the choices were limited. We had fun in the karaoke room, and the provided traditional robes made it even more enjoyable. The indoor baths were relaxing after a day out. We enjoyed Miyajima’s quiet streets and shops, Itsukushima Shrine, and the friendly deer. The mix of the room, staff, sea views, karaoke and island exploring made it a memorable stay. I’d recommend it to visitors.

We visited in August when the hotel was fully booked, but it only felt busy around checkout. Make use of the shuttle to the ferry docks. Our traditional room and meals made for a memorable, different kind of stay, and the staff were friendly with amazing service. It was peaceful, with water views and city lights across the bay, plus cozy rooms and a relaxing feel.