Awaji Hamarikyu

The meals were a bit disappointing for the price and the ryokan's reputation. The rest of the setting was lovely: the hotel's interior is beautiful, and from the garden you can walk out to the beach for a nice sea view. The spacious onsens have wonderful views of the sunset and moon. I also appreciated the complimentary drinks bar, including alcoholic drinks.

The traditional rooms were spacious, and the onsens were lovely and quiet. We got a good off-season deal and wanted to try an onsen resort while visiting Japan. There isn't much happening in the town, so expect to spend your time at the hotel, in your room or the onsen. The meals were very good traditional Japanese food. Dinner service, though, left a lot to be desired. The waiter gave noticeably more attention and better service to the Japanese tables than to our table of tourists, and even acknowledged that he didn't speak much English. We managed to communicate well enough, but I was surprised by the language barrier at a hotel that advertises so much English-speaking service.

We had a relaxing hot spring bath, and both breakfast and dinner were delicious. The staff were attentive, helpful, and professional throughout, so I'd be happy to stay again. The hotel is right by the sea, with west-facing rooms that have beautiful sunset views. Inside, the decor is lovely, especially the big staircase at the entrance.

It was clean and quiet, with a lovely ocean view. There aren't many hotels of this standard in the area, and I was happy with my stay. The amenities, complimentary drinks, and service were good. A few parts of my room could use some refurbishing, but otherwise it was a good visit.