Arai Ryokan

“Perfect”

This is a Ryokan which has a very good reputation. For me, the stay is perfect and I will recommend this Ryokan. Even though you cannot value the location of the Ryokan, as Shuzenji is a very small place. The Rokan is right opposite to the bamboo forest, which is suitable for my personal view. How… more

This is a Ryokan which has a very good reputation. For me, the stay is perfect and I will recommend this Ryokan. Even though you cannot value the location of the Ryokan, as Shuzenji is a very small place. The Rokan is right opposite to the bamboo forest, which is suitable for my personal view. However, you need to notice as it is close to the bamboo forest and near to the river, you will find many bugs here, especially at night. Don't forget to close the windows and doors. When you first arrive at the Ryokan, don't forget to take a photo of the board at the door as you can find your name on it. If you have a name that can be written in Kanji, you can even email them to let them write in Kanji. The Ryokan itself is large but the staff are very nice and friendly. They will introduce the whole Ryokan to you when you arrive and lead you to the most places so that you can find out the several Onsens and amenities' locations. I will recommend you to discover the Ryokan when you are free. The Ryokan even provides guided tours as most of the buildings here are cultural heritage. Moreover, the Ryokan will even provide umbrellas, so no worries when it rains. The English of Ryokan staff is not ideal, as you might be able to guess. If you can speak Japanese, I will recommend you to use Japanese. The food quality is very good and they will sometimes provide some very interesting dishes. For example, the lobster shell tempura, which shocked me at first but tasted not bad. I have mentioned Onsen before but there are a few more you might need to know. Since the hotel has a long history, you might need to take a shower in your room first then go to the Onsen in different places as there are no shower places in Onsen like other Ryokan. However, the onsen is very good so I will recommend you try as many as you can. Overall, the Rokan is expensive but absolutely worthy. I will recommend you to try it when you are free.

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“Classic beauty”

We stayed one night. The ryokan is everything you’d have dreamt of a traditional onsen experience. Our room is a river-facing, the river is literally flowing next to the room. The bamboo trail is directly opposite making an impeccable view. We suspected in autumn the room will also see an abundant… more

We stayed one night. The ryokan is everything you’d have dreamt of a traditional onsen experience. Our room is a river-facing, the river is literally flowing next to the room. The bamboo trail is directly opposite making an impeccable view. We suspected in autumn the room will also see an abundant maple trees. There are 4 free baths, the outdoor and ‘big bath house’ are the best. The free private bath is a very nice touch, good for family and couples. Food is very good as well, filled with some many delicate touches and seasonal picks, if you eat too fast or too big a mouthful it’s likely you’d have missed a few good things without realising. The ryokan’s size and setting is most enjoyable. Inner courtyards and ponds are beautifully curated adding to the aged beauty of the buildings. Aged trees and streams, every corner, indoor or outdoor, it’s a delight to discover. The neighbourhood is a nice little pocket perfect to explore for a good day/half-day. Will recommend arriving a bit early to explore the vicinity including Shuzenji and it’s back-hill area. The Main Street along the ryokan also offers some shops to explore for a snack or souvenir. Would highly recommend to all who crave a serene onsen experience. Note: the river could be ‘loud’ for some as it is not a small stream but a constant hush of water. Some will consider it sounding like white noise. If you need to sleep in absolute silence consider courtyard-facing rooms instead.

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“What a beautiful place”

Aria Ryokan was our first stop when we arrived in Japan We spend three wonderful nights As we arrived our name was written outside and we were taken to our room Very nice room by the river with two beds Breakfast and diner were served in the room by a very nice young lady who spoke English Food wa… more

Aria Ryokan was our first stop when we arrived in Japan We spend three wonderful nights As we arrived our name was written outside and we were taken to our room Very nice room by the river with two beds Breakfast and diner were served in the room by a very nice young lady who spoke English Food was explained The bath were very clean Wonderful experience

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“Very traditional”

Excellent location. Izu is a very pleasant town (the Hakone Peninsula, in general, is highly recommended). Arai has rooms with a little balcony, overlooking the small bamboo forest (in itself, ideal for evening and early morning walks). The atmosphere is very intimate, you can enjoy both dinners an… more

Excellent location. Izu is a very pleasant town (the Hakone Peninsula, in general, is highly recommended). Arai has rooms with a little balcony, overlooking the small bamboo forest (in itself, ideal for evening and early morning walks). The atmosphere is very intimate, you can enjoy both dinners and breakfasts in your room. The onsen is very pretty, the temperature ideal. Service, it goes without saying, is excellent.

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