In our review of this hidden gem in Shimane Prefecture, we found the Owl Resort to be a peaceful retreat for those seeking a traditional Japanese experience.
The indoor and outdoor hot spring baths are the real stars here, offering a soothing soak amid nature’s beauty. Clean rooms and friendly staff add to the charm, though some might find the price a bit steep for the area.
One potential drawback is the remote location, about 13 km from Gotsu City. This means you’ll need to plan transportation carefully if you want to explore nearby attractions like the Nima Sand Museum or Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Centre.
Despite these minor hiccups, this ryokan is perfect for travelers looking to unwind and enjoy Japanese culture.
It’s especially suited for couples or solo adventurers who don’t mind spending a little extra for a taste of tranquility. If you’re after a genuine onsen experience without the crowds, this could be your ideal countryside escape.
Key Points
- Owl Resort is a 4-star ryokan located in Arifuku Onsen, Shimane Prefecture, offering a tranquil getaway with hot spring baths and natural surroundings.
- The resort provides well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, free WiFi, and private parking, catering to the needs of both individual and family travelers.
- Guests can enjoy the resort’s rejuvenating hot spring baths, including indoor and open-air options, which are fed by geothermal activity and known for their therapeutic mineral-rich waters.
- The resort is conveniently located, with Iwami Airport situated 60 km away and popular local attractions like the Nima Sand Museum and Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Centre within a 40-47 km radius.
- While the overall guest rating is 7.7 out of 10, the resort’s cleanliness, staff performance, and facilities are highly rated, providing a comfortable and relaxing stay for visitors.
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview and Location
- Accommodation and Facilities
- Guest Experiences and Reviews
- Policies and Regulations
- Booking and Availability
- Exploring Nearby Attractions
- Dining and On-Site Amenities
- Unique Features and Highlights
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Check-In and Check-Out Time on Weekends?
- Do They Offer Any Discounts or Package Deals?
- Can I Request an Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
- Is There a Shuttle Service Available to Nearby Attractions?
- Can I Book a Private Onsen Session During My Stay?
- The Sum Up
Overview and Location
Located in the picturesque town of Arifuku Onsen in Shimane Prefecture, the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN is a 4-star ryokan that offers guests a tranquil and rejuvenating getaway.
The resort is situated just 13 km from the Gotsu City General Citizen Center Milky Way Hall and 40 km from the Nima Sand Museum.
Other nearby attractions include the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Centre, 47 km away, and the Ogawa Kesseshutei Garden, just 10 km from the resort.
For those arriving by air, the Iwami Airport is 60 km away, providing convenient access to the property.
Accommodation and Facilities
The OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN is a 4-star ryokan, providing guests with a range of accommodations and facilities to enhance their stay.
Guests can enjoy the property’s hot spring bath, open-air bath, and non-smoking rooms. The resort offers free WiFi and private parking, as well as family rooms.
On-site, there’s a coffee shop for guests to enjoy. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee maker, refrigerator, and private bathroom with a bidet in some units.
Hairdryers and free toiletries are also provided, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Guest Experiences and Reviews
Guests have rated the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN as a good 7.7 out of 10 based on 24 reviews. The resort’s strengths include cleanliness, scoring a high 9.0, and the staff’s performance, rated 8.2. Guests were also pleased with the facilities and overall comfort, both scoring 8.1. However, the value for money was slightly lower at 7.6, and the location received an 8.0. Some guests commented positively on the cleanliness, environment, and dinner quality, but noted limited activities in the surrounding area.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Cleanliness | 9.0 |
| Staff | 8.2 |
| Facilities | 8.1 |
Policies and Regulations
As for policies and regulations, the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN has a check-in time that starts at 15:00 and extends until 18:00, while check-out must be completed by 10:00.
Children of all ages are welcome, though those 6 years and older are charged as adults.
The resort maintains a no-smoking policy, and pets aren’t permitted on the premises.
Quiet hours are observed between 22:00 and 08:00.
Payments can only be made using credit cards, as the resort doesn’t accept cash.
These policies ensure a comfortable and peaceful stay for all guests.
Booking and Availability
Typically, guests can book their stay at the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN through the resort’s website, which offers options to check availability and room types based on selected dates.
The resort provides a variety of room types, including Deluxe Family Room, Deluxe Twin Room, Deluxe Quadruple Room, Deluxe Triple Room, and Deluxe Double Room.
Guests can take advantage of the resort’s policy to price match, ensuring they get the best deal.
Payment is accepted via credit card only, as the resort doesn’t accept cash.
With its range of accommodation options and convenient booking process, the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN is a popular choice for travelers seeking a relaxing stay.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Beyond the tranquil confines of the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN, a wealth of captivating attractions await guests to explore.
Just 13 km away, visitors can marvel at the Gotsu City General Citizen Center Milky Way Hall, a modern cultural hub.
Further afield, the Nima Sand Museum, 40 km distant, showcases the region’s unique sand formations.
History enthusiasts can explore the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Centre, 47 km away, to uncover the area’s storied mining past.
Nature lovers can enjoy the serenity of the Ogawa Kesseshutei Garden, just 10 km from the resort.
For those seeking wider exploration, the Iwami Airport, 60 km away, provides easy access to the region.
Dining and On-Site Amenities
What delights await guests at the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN? The resort boasts a range of on-site facilities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Theres some good the rejuvenating hot spring baths, both indoor and open-air, soaking in the therapeutic waters. For those who prefer a more refreshing experience, the resort offers a coffee shop where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
The rooms are well-appointed, featuring flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee makers, and private bathrooms with bidets in select units.
With free WiFi and private parking available, the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN provides a seamless and enjoyable stay for its guests.
Unique Features and Highlights
Amid the serene Shimane countryside, the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN sets itself apart with its captivating natural hot spring baths.
Fed by the region’s geothermal activity, these rejuvenating waters offer guests a chance to unwind and soak in the restorative powers of Arifuku Onsen.
The resort’s open-air baths, nestled amidst lush greenery, provide a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature while indulging in the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.
Whether it’s a dip in the indoor baths or a leisurely soak under the starry sky, the onsite hot springs are the crown jewel that elevate the OWL RESORT ARIFUKU ONSEN’s allure as a premier relaxation destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Check-In and Check-Out Time on Weekends?
The check-in time is from 3 pm to 6 pm, and the check-out time is until 10 am, regardless of whether it’s a weekday or weekend. This is the standard policy for this accommodation.
Do They Offer Any Discounts or Package Deals?
The resort doesn’t appear to offer any standard discounts or package deals based on the information provided. However, guests should check the website or contact the resort directly to inquire about any current promotions or seasonal offers.
Can I Request an Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request an early check-in or late check-out, but it’s subject to availability and may incur an additional fee. It’s best to contact the resort directly to inquire about their policies and availability for these requests.
Is There a Shuttle Service Available to Nearby Attractions?
The resort does not offer a shuttle service to nearby attractions. Guests will need to arrange their own transportation, such as private car rental or taxi, to visit local sights and destinations around the resort.
Can I Book a Private Onsen Session During My Stay?
While the accommodation details do not explicitly mention private onsen sessions, many ryokans in Japan offer this service. Guests can typically inquire about booking a private onsen experience during their stay to enhance their relaxation.
The Sum Up
We stumbled upon a hidden gem nestled in the lush mountains of Shimane Prefecture. This ryokan experience in the heart of Japan’s Chugoku region left us feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
Picture yourself soaking in a steaming onsen, surrounded by nature’s beauty, then retiring to your room where modern comforts blend seamlessly with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The attentive staff anticipates your every need, making you feel like an honored guest in a Japanese home.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple seeking a romantic getaway or with family looking to immerse yourselves in Japanese culture, this resort delivers. We were particularly impressed by how they’ve managed to preserve the authenticity of a traditional ryokan while incorporating contemporary amenities.
If you’re ready to embark on your own journey to this tranquil oasis, you’re in luck. The button below will take you to booking.com, our go-to site for reserving accommodations. We’ve found their prices to be competitive, and best of all, there’s no charge for making a reservation. Happy travels!