Kouyurou Ikawa

This was my first time using IKYU. We decided on short notice to take an Onsen trip three days later (on a weekday), and an AI recommended IKYU, so I installed the app and searched. The Accommodation that came up with a last-minute discount was Koyu-ro Ikawa in Izu. I’ll say this upfront: I will definitely return. It was that wonderful.I believe it’s an older Ryokan that has been renovated, and I was truly impressed by the concept. It’s a triumph of spatial design. The entire building is kept softly dim, with skillful lighting creating a luxurious atmosphere, and carefully selected sofas are placed in the lobby. Together, these elements gently conceal the building’s age and create a gorgeous space where you can completely relax.It was also clear that every service and Facility—such as welcome drinks and the dessert buffet after dinner—had been thoughtfully planned and provided.What I especially want to highlight is the private open-air bath in a separate annex on the first floor. You can soak in an indescribably wonderful space, and that time left a powerful impression on me.Both dinner and breakfast were excellent.There is only one regret: while almost all staff were perfect (100 out of 100), when we arrived about an hour before the 3:00 p.m. check-in time, the young female staff member who came out from the back to assist us at reception was extremely disappointing. Her language wasn’t polite, and it made me feel as if we were being pushed out of the property. We pulled ourselves together and returned before 3:00 p.m., but everyone else was outstanding.

The day before, I suddenly felt like going to an Onsen, so I looked for a nearby Accommodation with two meals included and found this place. Even though we arrived early, a female staff member greeted us outside and kindly guided us to the parking lot and helped carry our suitcases, which was very helpful. I had a few thoughts: I’d really like handrails added at the large public bath on the 7th floor; I wanted the dining area brighter during dinner; I wished there were a small table by the bed to place a phone or glasses (an outlet there would be even better); and since the platform used in place of a bed didn’t match the mattress size, I hit my shin on the part that stuck out—so please be careful. That said, both the Room and baths were kept very clean, and the food and desserts were delicious. Maybe because it was a weekday, I had the large bath and open-air bath all to myself all four times. The private bath was also very clean, and the incense was nice as well. With a last-minute discount we stayed at a great price, and one of the perks was checkout until 11:00, so we could relax. The value for money is excellent. I’d like to visit again.