Welcome to our review of this charming Japanese inn near the hot springs town of Shimobe.
Picture yourself soaking in a steamy outdoor bath, surrounded by misty mountains. This traditional ryokan offers a genuine slice of Japanese culture, complete with tatami-mat rooms and futon beds.
While the experience is authentic, some travelers might find the minimalist furnishings and sleeping on the floor a bit challenging.
Also, keep in mind that English may not be widely spoken here.
Despite these potential hurdles, this retreat is perfect for adventurous couples and culture enthusiasts looking to dive deep into Japanese customs.
If you’re after a peaceful getaway with stunning views and a chance to disconnect from the modern world, you’ll find it here.
Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and an open mind!
Key Points
- Shimobe Hotel is a traditional Japanese ryokan located near JR Shimobe Onsen Station, offering an authentic lodging experience with stunning mountain views.
- The hotel features a variety of Japanese-style room types, including Standard Japanese-Style Rooms, Japanese-Style Quadruple Rooms, and Japanese-Style Twin Rooms.
- Wellness facilities at Shimobe Hotel include open-air baths, a public bath, a hot spring bath, and a sauna for culture.
- Dining options include exquisite Japanese-style meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, as well as an Asian buffet breakfast and cultural entertainment.
- The hotel offers convenient transportation options, with a 2-minute taxi ride from JR Shimobe Onsen Station and free on-site parking for guests.
Hotel Overview
The Shimobe Hotel is a traditional Japanese ryokan, or inn, located just steps away from the JR Shimobe Onsen Station in the picturesque Yamanashi prefecture.
This 8.8-rated hotel offers stunning mountain views and easy access to nearby attractions like the Fujikawa Craft Park, just a 5-minute drive away, and the breathtaking Lake Motosu, a 35-minute drive from the property.
With its prime location and high rating from 35 reviews, the Shimobe Hotel is a popular choice for couples and other travelers seeking an authentic Japanese lodging experience.
The hotel’s ryokan-style accommodations and wellness facilities, including open-air baths and a sauna, provide guests with a truly immersive cultural escape.
Accommodations
At the Shimobe Hotel, guests can choose from a variety of traditional Japanese-style room types to suit their needs and preferences.
The accommodations include Standard Japanese-Style Rooms with 4 futon beds, Japanese-Style Quadruple Rooms also with 4 futon beds, and Japanese-Style Twin Rooms featuring 2 single beds.
For more space, the hotel offers Deluxe Twin Rooms, Large Twin Rooms, and Standard Twin Rooms with 2 single beds and 1 futon bed.
All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, low tables, tatami flooring, futon bedding, and private bathrooms with hairdryers.
Room Types
Within the confines of the Shimobe Hotel, guests can choose from an array of traditional Japanese-style room types to suit their specific needs and preferences.
The Standard Japanese-Style Room features 4 futon beds, while the Japanese-Style Quadruple Room offers the same layout. For guests seeking a more private setup, the Japanese-Style Twin Room and Deluxe Twin Room provide 2 single beds.
The Large Twin Room and Standard Twin Room also feature 2 single beds, with the latter adding a futon bed. Regardless of the selected room, all accommodations come equipped with essential amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
Room Features
Complementing the diverse range of room types, the Shimobe Hotel ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay through its thoughtfully designed room features.
Each guest room is outfitted with essential amenities, including air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. The traditional Japanese-style accommodations feature tatami flooring and futon bedding, creating a serene and authentic ambiance.
Guests can also expect a private bathroom with a hairdryer for added convenience. To cater to various needs, the hotel offers a selection of room layouts, from the cozy Japanese-style twin rooms to the more spacious deluxe and large twin configurations.
These well-appointed rooms provide a perfect haven for travelers seeking a rejuvenating ryokan experience.
Hotel Facilities
The Shimobe Hotel boasts an impressive array of facilities to cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
Visitors can enjoy the convenience of free parking and complimentary WiFi throughout the property. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel offers an open-air bath, public bath, hot spring bath, and sauna.
Additional wellness options include massage services, available at an additional charge. The hotel also features karaoke lounges, a gift shop, and a water lounge stocked with complimentary mineral water.
Guests can further indulge in the hotel’s entertainment offerings, such as Japanese drum shows and mochi rice cake cooking demonstrations.
Dining and Entertainment
Guests of the Shimobe Hotel can look forward to an exquisite Japanese-style dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients. The dinner menu showcases the best of regional cuisine, with a focus on freshness and authenticity. Breakfast is an Asian buffet, providing a variety of hot and cold options to start the day. Beyond meals, the hotel offers an array of cultural entertainment, from traditional Japanese drum shows to mochi rice cake cooking demonstrations. In the evenings, guests can unwind with karaoke and a relaxing foot bath.
| Entertainment | Description |
|---|---|
| Japanese Drum Show | Lively performance of traditional Japanese drumming |
| Mochi Rice Cake Cooking | Interactive demonstration of making mochi rice cakes |
| Evening Karaoke | Sing your heart out in the hotel’s karaoke lounges |
| Foot Bath at Lounge | Soothe your feet in the complimentary foot bath |
| Free Amenities | Enjoy free ice cream and happy hour with the foot bath |
Guest Policies
With check-in from 15:00 to 19:00 and check-out between 07:30 and 10:00, Shimobe Hotel’s guest policies aim to provide a smooth and comfortable stay.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, so guests should review the details upon booking.
The hotel maintains quiet hours from 21:00 to 07:00 to ensure a restful environment.
Children of all ages are welcome, but cots and extra beds aren’t available.
Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited throughout the property.
Parties aren’t permitted, and the hotel only accepts card payments – no cash.
These policies help create a tranquil and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Getting There
Conveniently situated just steps from the JR Shimobe Onsen Station, the Shimobe Hotel provides guests with a seamless arrival experience.
The hotel’s prime location offers several convenient transportation options:
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Train: The JR Shimobe Onsen Station is directly adjacent to the hotel, allowing guests to easily access the property upon arrival.
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Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the station, providing a quick 2-minute ride to the hotel.
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Rental Car: For those driving, the hotel offers free parking on-site, making it a hassle-free option.
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Private Transfer: The hotel can arrange private transportation from nearby airports or other destinations, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wi-Fi Available in the Guest Rooms?
Yes, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi access throughout the property, including in the guest rooms. Guests can stay connected during their stay without additional charges.
What Time Is Check-In and Check-Out?
Check-in times are from 3 pm to 7 pm, while check-out is from 7:30 am to 10 am. These standard hotel hours allow guests ample time to arrive, settle in, and depart the property.
Does the Hotel Have a Swimming Pool or Gym?
The hotel does not have a swimming pool or gym. However, it offers other wellness amenities such as an open-air bath, public bath, hot spring bath, and sauna for guests to enjoy.
Does the Hotel Offer Transportation Services to Nearby Attractions?
The hotel provides shuttle services to popular nearby attractions like Fujikawa Craft Park, allowing guests to easily explore the area without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.
Can I Store My Luggage at the Hotel Before Check-In or After Check-Out?
The hotel offers luggage storage services for guests before check-in and after check-out, allowing them to explore the area without having to carry their belongings.
The Sum Up
Picture yourself soaking in a steaming onsen, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Japan’s Minobu region. That’s the experience awaiting you at this gem of a ryokan we recently discovered.
Our stay at this traditional Japanese inn left us enchanted. From the moment we slipped into our yukata robes, we were transported to a world of authentic hospitality and serene comfort. The diverse room options cater to every traveler’s needs, whether you’re seeking a culture or simply a peaceful retreat.
But it’s not just about the accommodations. The local cuisine served here is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, showcasing the best of regional flavors. And with a guest rating of 8.8, it’s clear we’re not alone in our admiration.
Ready to experience this slice of Japanese tranquility for yourself? The button below will whisk you away to Booking.com, our go-to site for making reservations. It’s free to use and often offers the most competitive prices. So go ahead, treat yourself to a stay that’ll have you saying "Arigato" in no time!