Around Santanbe Cave × Highly rated for customer service and hospitality at Hotel·Ryokan

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. There was only one reason I came to Shirahama: To stay at Kuroshio Sou. When people think of Shirahama, many picture the sea and resorts. But what I found here was Wakayama itself. What moved me most at this Accommodation was not only how outstanding the food was. It was Head Chef Etani’s exceptional skill, and his deep respect for the producers who support every single dish. Fishermen. Farmers. Brewers. Roasters. And the artisans who continue to protect Japan’s fermentation culture. The moment I saw the map of producers introduced alongside the meal, I understood what this Accommodation truly values. Through the cuisine, you encounter not only ingredients, but also the people behind them and Wakayama’s climate and character. I was especially impressed by how delicious the soy sauce and Kinzanji miso were at dinner. When I asked about them, I learned they were from Horigawaya Nomura—a producer with over 350 years of history that still preserves traditional craftsmanship using firewood-heated iron kettles—making both their soy sauce and Kinzanji miso in that way today as well. I had originally planned to visit a different soy sauce brewery, but heavy rain made it impossible. Sometimes, the places you cannot reach end up guiding you to the story you were truly meant to find. For me, Kuroshio Sou was exactly that kind of place. The wonderful Onsen gently healed not only my body, but my mind as well. The quiet comfort throughout the building, Chef Etani’s cuisine, and the hospitality of all staff— together they quietly express this Accommodation’s philosophy in everything it does。 As a former chef from Tasmania, there is something I felt deeply: True hospitality is not just serving delicious food; it is helping guests connect with the people and culture that sustain a place。 I now have one more reason to return to Wakayama。 Thank you again from my heart.

It was a very satisfying trip to Shirahama. This Accommodation is in an excellent location, close to Shirarahama Beach. The Room was thoroughly cleaned, and we were very satisfied. We love Onsen, so we were happy with the large public bath here. The food was delicious as well. All the staff were attentive and helpful—thank you very much. It was an Accommodation that exceeded its price. We were also blessed with good weather and could relax at our leisure. It’s an Accommodation that makes us want to come again.

From the Room balcony, we had a panoramic view of Shirahama Beach, the ocean, and the town—an unbeatable location. The Room was spacious and truly relaxing. The Hotel itself was lovely, and having a nice smoking room was a real plus for smokers. In the evening, we enjoyed delicious cocktails at the bar counter, and with live piano music it made for a wonderfully comfortable time. The view from the large public bath was also amazing—you can look down over the sea, and the ocean breeze felt incredibly refreshing. Dinner was an Italian course meal and everything was delicious. The breakfast buffet was great too, with both Japanese and Western options. The Hotel also has a pool and a gym, and it’s close to Shirahama World Safari and golf courses—perfect for families with children as well as golf lovers. It was such a wonderful Hotel that we’ll definitely want to visit again.

We stayed one night in a second-floor Room starting 2026/6/6. Our group was two adults, one 2-year-old, and one Pomeranian. The Room was stylish, clean, and spacious, and the private open-air Onsen bath was more than large enough. The water temperature was easy to adjust. Even though it was June, we didn’t notice any insects, and it was wonderful to be able to bathe 24 hours a day at whatever temperature we wanted. The only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars is the lack of a view (it didn’t bother us at all at night). We were surprised to find an indoor puppy area in the Room that’s big enough for light running. Also (in a good way), even though the Facility is extremely clean, dogs are allowed to walk anywhere as long as they’re on a leash. The vanity has double sinks and is very comfortable. There’s also a front-loading washer/dryer, so staying two nights or more would be easy. The shower room is very spacious, which made bathing our 2-year-old much easier. The kitchen is well equipped with appliances and tableware for cooking, but we ate out this time. Within walking distance there are great sushi places, buffets, loco moco spots, and an infinity-style scenic footbath with amazing views. Shirarahama Beach is about a 20-minute walk from the Hotel—an excellent location. Within about 10 minutes by car are Toretore Market as well as recommended yakiniku and pizza restaurants. They offer free rental of an outdoor wagon: we loaded our 2-year-old and our Pomeranian into it and walked to Shirarahama Beach. At night we went to a buffet about a 3-minute walk from the Hotel; after our child fell asleep we enjoyed Onsen time with drinks; the next day we bought delicious bread from the attached bakery Hotel before sightseeing. Thanks to all of this, we had an amazing holiday. We will definitely return—if I had to nitpick: - I would have liked a baby guard to prevent falls (we pushed the beds together and used pillows as a barrier) - I would have preferred an enclosed toilet room (this is also why it’s not quite full marks for the Room) We’ve stayed at many pet-friendly Accommodations before, but considering location and value for money, this was by far the best. We will absolutely come back. Apparently Rooms on the third floor have ocean views—next time we’d like to stay there.

This was our third stay, and the free-flowing Onsen with no added water is outstanding. One of the highlights is being able to relax together as a couple in the private bath. Breakfast was delicious both to look at and to eat, and we were completely full. The parking lot is spacious, the location is great, and we love the views from the Room—Shirarahama Beach, sunsets, and more. We’d like to visit again when we can find the time.

This was my second stay this year because I particularly enjoyed the food last time. Originally a bank's retreat, the compact front desk and building layout reflect its history. There is no greeting upon arrival, luggage assistance, or farewell service (you carry your luggage to the third-floor front desk yourself and leave on your own). However, I appreciate the stunning ocean view from the hilltop location and the cozy atmosphere with only 10 rooms. The Onsen features a 78-degree natural hot spring source, with a slightly small but pleasant open-air bath and high-quality massage chairs. This time, I stayed in a Western-style room near the elevator that was added later; it was spacious, clean, and had comfortable beds. The only downside was that the sink and toilet were adjacent without separation—though it did provide an open feel upon reflection. Dinner could only be enjoyed at the restaurant (unlike last time when in-room dining allowed for more relaxation), which was disappointing as wearing loungewear is not permitted—I would have preferred to dine in a relaxed atmosphere in loungewear. Starting February next year, dinner times will shift to two seatings; however, I hope they maintain flexibility like now where you can choose every 30 minutes. The food met expectations—delicious despite not using particularly expensive ingredients—with intricate sauces and beautiful presentation that truly felt like fine cuisine. Breakfast also offered plenty of variety and quality. Before dinner at the lounge, I ordered Royal Milk Tea which was so delicious that I ordered it again in the morning while enjoying an elegant atmosphere with ocean views through large windows. A staff member kindly offered to take my photo during this time while explaining distant scenery details—a friendly gesture that elevated my impression of this accommodation’s overall service level. Its convenient distance from Osaka makes me want to visit again!

Fireworks were scheduled at Shirarahama that day, and while looking for a nearby Hotel, I happened to find availability and made a Reservation for a Room with an open-air bath. The Room was very clean and relaxing, and watching the fireworks right in front of us became a wonderful summer memory. Above all, the staff’s hospitality was outstanding. Everyone was courteous and very kind. I don’t usually write Reviews, but this was such a wonderful Hotel that it made me want to leave one. Next time, I’d like to stay in a different Room as well. I will definitely visit again. Thank you very much.

I booked this on short notice during an unexpected day off, hoping to take my grandchild to the beach. We arrived around 10:00, and thanks to the front desk staff’s courteous guidance, we were able to park smoothly and proceed through check-in procedures, changing clothes, and luggage storage without any stress. Within an hour, we were already relaxing on the beach. That day, due to Typhoon No. 10, the waves became quite high and swimming was prohibited from 14:00. Even so, with its excellent oceanfront location—and since we could enjoy the pool and park until check-in—my grandchild stayed entertained and was very satisfied. As for the Room, we were upgraded, and through the wide horizontal window we fully enjoyed the privileged feeling of being right on the oceanfront. The staff were pleasant throughout, making it a very comfortable one-night stay.

We stayed as a family with our pet rabbit. Every staff member welcomed us with warm smiles and kind service, and the female staff at the dining area in particular spoke to our rabbit and took lots of photos for us, so our rabbit was able to relax and feel comfortable. The meals were also filling, with fresh and luxurious boat platters of sashimi, tempura, and more. As it was a Multiple Night Stay, when we returned from going out on the second day, fresh towels, extra trash bags, and replacements such as the kettle and teacups had been prepared for us, which we truly appreciated. We were also very grateful that there was no time limit for bathing. The Onsen left our skin smooth and silky, and even after returning home my skin continued to feel great. There happened to be the Shirarahama Fireworks Festival during our stay, and they kindly told us how to get to the venue as well as good viewing spots, which was very helpful. Since there are only a limited number of Accommodation where you can stay with a rabbit, we’re really glad we found such a wonderful place. We would love to stay again.

We stayed in Building D, which is pet-friendly. Everything was spotless and very comfortable. There’s honestly nothing to criticize, so here are a few tips to help you enjoy your stay even more. Jacuzzi / Open-air bath / Pool: 　Bringing a swimsuit is recommended. Stink bugs (currently a large outbreak): 　It’s helpful to bring sticky tape for removal. Bakery: 　There’s a great bakery nearby. Amenities: 　High-quality POLA amenities are provided, so you only need to bring the basics. To fully enjoy it: 　You’ll probably want to stay two nights. Appliances: 　Most appliances are available, but there doesn’t seem to be an air fryer (probably). Shirarahama Beach: 　It’s just under 2 km away—slightly far. Dogs aren’t allowed on Shirarahama Beach, which is disappointing, but the beauty of the beach is amazing.

We stayed three times over three weeks (as a couple, our eldest son’s family, and our second daughter’s family). We were satisfied all three times. Both our eldest son’s family and our second daughter’s family (each staying on different dates) said that if they travel to Shirahama, they would be happy to stay at least one night at Shirahama Koganoi.

All the staff were very kind. My family of three stayed in the Room “Engetsu,” and it was spacious enough. The bath and dining area were on the same floor, so access was excellent. The bath was fully stocked—not only shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, but also facial cleanser, makeup remover, toner, and lotion—and the water had a wonderfully silky feel. The meals were outstanding as well. We enjoyed a relaxing sea bream feast in our Room. They even included beer as a complimentary service, and we were truly impressed by their thoughtful attention to detail. We had breakfast in the dining area; there was a great variety of side dishes, and everything was delicious too. When I visit Shirahama again, I would definitely like to stay at Akariya again.

Thank you very much for your hospitality. The service was courteous, the Room was clean and spacious, and I was able to do laundry. There was also a desk and chair where I could relax with tea. The bath had a Mirable shower, a jacuzzi, and a mist shower that felt wonderful. I only ordered breakfast in the morning, and the bread was delicious.

We stayed here to enjoy swimming at Shirarahama Beach. Before check-in, they let us use the changing room and paid lockers, and we reached Shirarahama Beach in just a few minutes on foot. They also have an air pump for float rings, of course. After swimming, we could rinse off the sand with the outdoor warm-water shower and then head straight to the Onsen, which was great. Both the Room and the Facility were clean, and there were free drinks available throughout the property—we enjoyed them after bathing and while waiting for the elevator. The plum soda was delicious. The buffet had a wide variety of options and everything was tasty. It was also nice that freshly cooked steak and tempura were brought directly to our table. Since our buffet time slot was later, we were able to go see the sunset at Engetsuto Island before dinner. Even after checkout, they offered parking for 1,000 yen, and told us we could use the paid lockers—and even use the baths after 2:00 PM—so it was wonderful to be able to enjoy an Onsen after coming back from the beach before heading home. If you’re going swimming at the beach, this place is absolutely “Musashi”! It was that good. All of the staff were kind, and it made for a truly great trip. Thank you very much.

A typhoon was approaching and the weather looked rainy, but it didn’t rain much, and we were able to see a wonderful sunset from the restaurant. The view from the large public bath was also amazing. The meals, made with ingredients from Wakayama, were all delicious. It was disappointing that we couldn’t watch Netflix or Amazon Prime in the room (the internet didn’t seem to connect) and that the shuttle bus service has been discontinued, but everything else was great. I’d like to stay again. Thank you very much.

Being able to enjoy a variety of alcoholic drinks during dinner was amazing! I was especially happy to have a Nagisa Beer server. The Room was spacious, clean, and comfortable. I also appreciated the free massage chair. There are many stairs to the large public bath, and even more to the panoramic open-air bath. It might be tough for elderly guests. However, the view and the hot spring water are wonderful, so I definitely recommend going.

The staff’s warm and attentive service left a lasting impression on me. The buffet menu and the bread were very delicious. I would love to stay again.

Dinner was very delicious. I wish breakfast had included items like an Onsen egg. The staff were also very friendly, and I would like to stay here again.

I finally got to experience this Accommodation I’d been curious about for a while, thanks to its appealing Instagram posts and high rankings online! In conclusion, it’s a wonderful Onsen Accommodation with a high level of satisfaction that truly lives up to the hype. The food is especially outstanding. At dinner—famous for its boat platter—you can enjoy Kishu-style whale dishes, along with a lineup of carefully prepared courses. As for the Onsen, it was a bit disappointing that every bath felt too hot to fully relax in, but you can still enjoy thoughtfully designed baths, including an open-air bath where you can feel the sea up close. I’m glad I found an Accommodation I’d love to return to in another season.

The Room and Facility are slightly old, but the layout was satisfactory. The large public bath and breakfast buffet deserve five stars. It would be perfect if there were additional outlets on the side. Great value for money!