The SPA Resort BETTEI RAKUYU

The view from my room was so soothing and helped me relax. The sunrise in the morning was especially beautiful and amazing. 😭👏✨

The staff were thoughtful and precise throughout, from the station transfer to handling our luggage. They seemed to anticipate what I needed, and their special care for our anniversary meant a lot. I’d recommend this place to anyone who wants quiet time by the sea and appreciates the architecture and materials. I’d love to return for another anniversary. We came by shuttle from Izukyu Shimoda Station, went up to the rooftop, then took the elevator down to the 4th-floor lobby. After check-in, matcha tea and Japanese sweets on the terrace came with a view of the sea and cape, a lovely way to start the trip. We stayed in Room 202, "Cloud Thread." The design felt consistent throughout, with a wooden ceiling, soft lantern light, white pebbles, and stone-paved corridors. It was calming just walking around. The copper sink looked just as impressive as it did in photos. Outside our window were a sandy beach and the sound of waves, and we knew right away we’d chosen well. Dinner and breakfast were carefully prepared, from the presentation to the cooking and serving temperature. Nothing felt overly showy, just thoughtfully done. Even a glass of juice in the dining room, with sunlight reflecting on the sea, felt like a treat. The open-air bath in our room had an exceptional view too. A storm came through one night, but walking outside to the sauna felt like a little adventure. I sweated while listening to the waves, felt the breeze, then went back into the bath. The next morning the sky was clear and blue, an unforgettable birthday morning.

There were strange noises throughout the facility, the service seemed completely untrained, and the French food was worse than what I’d expect from a chain restaurant. The price didn’t match the experience at all. I would have been satisfied at half the cost, and I doubt it deserves five stars. I’ve never felt this way about a hotel or inn before, and this is the first time I’ve wanted to write a review. Anyone thinking of staying here should consider it carefully.

Sotoura Beach was right in front of us, and the view was stunning. I could relax in the room’s open-air bath, with hot spring water flowing freely and waves in the background. It wasn’t swimming season, so there were hardly any people on the beach and it felt peaceful. Dinner was French cuisine and breakfast was American-style. Both came with freshly baked bread that was incredibly fluffy and delicious. The meals were excellent, especially dinner, which featured lots of local ingredients. I also really enjoyed the sauna. I’d swim in the pool after, then go back into the sauna and repeat the cycle. I’d definitely visit again. One thing to keep in mind: staff briefly mentioned that members of their membership program can visit with children during spring, summer, and winter holidays. Since I stayed over Golden Week, seeing families with kids there wouldn’t have been unusual, surprisingly. I was just lucky there weren’t any. Apparently regular weekends are adults-only, so if that’s why you’re considering booking, it’s a good idea to check with the hotel first.