In our experience, this cozy Japanese inn offers a peaceful retreat near Amanohashidate’s famous land bridge. You’ll sleep on tatami mats, soak in hot springs, and savor traditional meals. The friendly staff goes out of their way to make you feel at home.
While the rooms are clean and comfortable, they might feel small by Western standards. Some guests have noted that the walls can be thin, so light sleepers might want to bring earplugs.
This place is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy Japanese culture and enjoy a slower pace.
It’s especially well-suited for couples or small groups who want to explore the quieter side of Kyoto Prefecture. If you’re after nightlife or modern amenities, you might prefer staying in a bigger city.
Key Points

- Hotel Kitanoya is situated in Miyazu, a 6-minute walk from Amanohashidate Train Station, offering a peaceful environment near shops and restaurants.
- It provides Japanese-style rooms with open-air baths and sea views, as well as private outdoor hot-spring baths in select rooms.
- The on-site restaurant Gakatei serves Japanese-style breakfasts and kaiseki dinners, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients.
- Recreational facilities include public hot-spring baths, a reservable open-air bath, and a bicycle rental service for exploring the surroundings.
- Hotel Kitanoya has implemented enhanced COVID-19 safety protocols, including increased cleaning, hand sanitizers, and specific restrictions for guests with tattoos in public bathing areas.
Location and Surroundings

Located in the quiet town of Miyazu, Hotel Kitanoya sits just a 6-minute walk from Amanohashidate Train Station.
The hotel’s prime location puts guests within a 10-minute walk of the stunning Amanohashidate Land Bridge.
The surroundings are peaceful, with the hotel situated around 300 meters from the nearest shops and restaurants.
This serene setting allows visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Kyoto region.
Whether travelers are seeking a tranquil escape or a convenient base to explore the area, Hotel Kitanoya’s excellent location makes it an ideal choice.
Room Types and Amenities

Hotel Kitanoya offers guests a range of well-appointed room types to suit their preferences.
Guests can choose between Japanese-style rooms with open-air baths, standard twin rooms with sea views, deluxe twin rooms with sea views, and superior twin rooms with sea views.
All rooms feature tatami flooring, attached bathrooms, and the option of Western mattresses or traditional Japanese futon beds.
Some rooms even offer private outdoor hot-spring baths for a truly indulgent experience.
The hotel also provides free WiFi, air conditioning, and facilities for disabled guests, ensuring a comfortable and accessible stay for all.
Dining Options

At Hotel Kitanoya, guests can enjoy a variety of dining options.
The on-site restaurant, Gakatei, offers Japanese-style breakfasts and traditional kaiseki dinners. Guests can also visit the property’s Café Hamanasu, which caters specifically to hotel patrons.
The restaurant’s focus on local, seasonal ingredients and authentic Japanese cuisine ensures a memorable dining experience.
Regardless of the meal, guests can expect attentive service and a relaxing atmosphere that complements the hotel’s overall traditional Japanese ambiance.
With these dining offerings, Hotel Kitanoya provides a well-rounded culinary experience for its guests.
Recreational Facilities
Beyond its dining offerings, Hotel Kitanoya provides guests with a range of recreational facilities to enhance their stay.
The hotel features public hot-spring baths, allowing visitors to soak and unwind in the traditional Japanese onsen experience. For more privacy, guests can reserve the hotel’s open-air bath for their exclusive use.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel’s bicycle rental service, enabling them to explore the scenic surroundings. The property also boasts a garden and fishing areas, catering to those seeking a peaceful, nature-immersed experience.
With these diverse recreational amenities, Hotel Kitanoya caters to guests’ varying interests and preferences, ensuring a well-rounded and rejuvenating stay.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Guests have consistently praised Hotel Kitanoya’s exceptional service, with the staff receiving an impressive 9.0 rating for their attentiveness and hospitality.
The hotel’s facilities also received high marks, with the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms earning scores of 8.7 and 8.9, respectively.
Plus, the hotel’s free WiFi was lauded, receiving an 8.3 rating from guests.
While the value for money was rated slightly lower at 7.7, the overall consensus is that Hotel Kitanoya offers a high-quality experience, making it a popular choice for visitors to the Amanohashidate area.
Wellness Services
Hotel Kitanoya’s wellness services cater to guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can indulge in various massage treatments, from traditional Japanese techniques to more modern therapies. The hotel also boasts public hot spring baths, where guests can soak in the soothing waters and unwind. For a more private experience, the hotel offers an open-air bath that can be reserved for personal use. The wellness facilities at Hotel Kitanoya are designed to help guests achieve a state of tranquility and well-being during their stay.
| Wellness Services | Description |
|---|---|
| Massages | Traditional Japanese, Swedish, and deep tissue options |
| Public Bath | Indoor and outdoor hot spring baths |
| Private Bath | Reservable open-air bath for personal use |
| Other Amenities | Yoga classes, meditation sessions, and fitness center |
Policies and Check-in/Check-out

Hotel Kitanoya’s check-in and check-out policies are straightforward. Guests can check-in between 15:00 and 21:00, while check-out is between 07:30 and 10:00.
The hotel has the following additional policies:
- Children 3 years and above are charged as adults, and cots or extra beds aren’t available.
- Pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
- Payment is accepted only by card, as the hotel doesn’t accept cash.
The hotel also has enhanced COVID-19 safety and sanitation protocols in place, with specific restrictions for guests with tattoos in public bathing areas.
COVID-19 Measures

The hotel has enhanced its safety and sanitation protocols in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Guests can expect increased frequency of cleaning and disinfection in high-touch areas.
Hand sanitizers are readily available throughout the property. The hotel also follows local regulations regarding face coverings and contact tracing.
Plus, there are specific restrictions for guests with tattoos in the public bathing areas, as a measure to maintain a comfortable environment for all.
The hotel is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience during these challenging times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hotel Family-Friendly?
The hotel is moderately family-friendly. It accepts children 3 years and above, but cots and extra beds are not available. The hotel offers facilities like a garden and public baths, though pet policies are restrictive.
Is There a Lounge or Bar On-Site?
The hotel has a café called Café Hamanasu for guests, but there is no mention of a dedicated lounge or bar on-site. The primary dining option is the on-site restaurant Gakatei offering Japanese breakfasts and kaiseki dinners.
Can the Hotel Arrange Transportation to Local Attractions?
The hotel can arrange transportation to local attractions for guests. They offer shuttle services and can assist with booking taxis or other private transportation to explore the area surrounding the hotel.
Are There Any Special Packages or Offers Available?
The hotel offers several special packages and offers for guests, including discounted rates for extended stays, packages with local attraction tickets, and seasonal promotions. Guests should inquire about the latest deals when booking.
Does the Hotel Have Multilingual Staff?
The hotel has multilingual staff who can assist guests in multiple languages, providing a welcoming experience for international travelers. According to the information provided, the hotel caters to a global clientele.
The Sum Up
After a long day of exploring the stunning Amanohashidate region, we found ourselves at this charming retreat nestled in the heart of Kyoto’s natural beauty. This place is a real gem for travelers looking to soak up authentic Japanese culture and breathtaking scenery.
We were immediately impressed by the range of cozy rooms, some even boasting private hot-spring baths – talk about luxury! The food here is a treat for the taste buds, serving up delicious Japanese cuisine that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Need to unwind? Their wellness services are just the ticket. And for those itching to explore, you’re in luck – some of Kyoto’s most captivating attractions are just a stone’s throw away.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking to kick back and relax, this hotel delivers an experience that’ll stick with you long after you’ve returned home.
Ready to book your own Japanese getaway? Click the button below to reserve through Booking.com. We use it ourselves for hassle-free bookings, and they often have great deals to boot. Happy travels!
