Reyzenit-Kinosaki Suite Villa

The view is the real reason to come here, it’s phenomenal. The villa was huge and spotless, the beds and linen were comfortable, everything worked well, and the staff were lovely. My non-pet, non-smoking room had none of the unpleasant smells others mentioned. The place felt like a childhood beach motel or staying at my grandparents’ house. Sure, the exterior could use a good wash before summer and the rooms look dated, but I found some of the reviews a bit harsh. A taxi to the train station or back costs 1600¥, so keep that in mind if you’re going out for dinner. For a lazy day in your room, the hotel baths are amazing. If you like running, I recommend the 4.1km route over the pedestrian bridge and along the water to Kounoyo Onsen at the top of town. It was great for recovery. I’d stay again.

The staff were kind and professional, greeted us, spoke decent English, and even offered me skin tape to cover my body. They apologized about the tattoo issue, and their customer service was good. Still, I wouldn’t come back, even without that issue. I’d spend extra for a better hotel closer to the public tattoo-friendly onsens. If you have tattoos, DO NOT BOOK HERE! I researched in advance and was told both that the town and this hotel were tattoo friendly. I even asked before booking and was told tattoos were okay. They weren’t, unless they were small enough to cover, which hadn’t been explained. The room had four Western beds and was huge, probably enough space for eight people. It also had a small kitchen, a Japanese Tatammi room that could be used as a bedroom, and a balcony. But it smelled stale, had stains throughout, and the bathroom was very outdated and only okay in cleanliness. The balcony looked nasty. The ceiling lights turned blue when I switched them off, which felt weird and suspicious and made me uncomfortable. Parking was another problem: the garage was tiny and impossible to turn around in. There is outside parking, but it’s limited, so if you return late you may have to park on the street.

Stay away from this horrible place. The photos seem to be from 10-20 years ago. The building is rotting, the mold smell is unbearable, and the room was so stinky we couldn’t sleep.

The setting is lovely and quiet, away from the beaten path. We walked across the bridge and were mesmerized by the mountains and waterways. The Reyzenit Kinosaki Suite Villas are about 10/15 minutes by bus or taxi from the Onsens, so they’re not especially close if that’s your priority. The hotel and grounds have seen better days. Our room was spacious and comfortable, with a kitchenette but no cooking equipment or dishware. The pool was closed even though temperatures were in the 90s. Limited rides to the train station were available and very helpful; otherwise you’ll need a public bus or taxi. Food choices are limited, and restaurants in town close early, so plan ahead.