Shimoda Yamatokan

We loved the 2 nights we stayed here in Shimoda! The view from the room was breathtaking 🥰 It's very close to the most beautiful beach I have seen in Japan so far. A lot of people are surfing here and it's great to go into the ocean - the hotel even has a private entrance to the beach. The staff was really nice and the Kaiseki dinner and Japanese style breakfast was absolutely amazing! I can only recommend it to anyone who ever wants a Ryokan experience, even though it's not a traditional Ryokan. Shimoda city itself is also really beautiful and worth to be explored! 🇯🇵

The breakfast and dinner is not served in your own room. But that's a good trade-off for the amazing view and beach, so totally fine! Also worth noting: There is a public bath, but you're not allowed to use it if you have any tattoos. There are two beautiful private Onsen that you can book in that case (or if you want to use it together with your partner). Shimoda is a bit of a ride from Osaka or Tokyo, but it's worth it because the most beautiful beaches are in the south of Izu. :)

The hotel is right on the beach which is extremely convenient if you are a surfer. The food was very good and we got different things for both breakfast and dinner on each day of our stay.

The hotel definitely needs some refurbishment, especially around the hallways and the beach access. The outdoor pool was not yet open when we visited. There is nothing really to do if it rains and there are no waves.

Great location - makes the most of the views overlooking the beach from the restaurant & rooms. They can provide an excellent vegetarian option when booking half-board - make sure to ask ahead of arrival.

Not allowed in the public bathing areas if you have tattoos.

the view from my room was incredible, the kind staff

THE SMELL