Aoki Shima no Yado Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima

During our trip to explore Kumano, we stayed at Aoki Shima no Yado Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima.What impressed us first was how smoothly everything was handled from the moment we arrived. At the parking area by the port waiting lounge, we simply gave our name and a staff member guided our car for us, and we were able to complete check-in right there in the lounge.The sea viewed from the port was exactly as the inn’s name suggests—truly an “azure sea.” We were moved by its beauty as soon as we arrived.As explained in advance, it takes about five minutes to reach the property by private boat from the port. Even this short boat ride felt like a special touch that made it wonderfully out of the ordinary.Throughout our stay, what stood out most was the high level of hospitality from all staff members. Everyone seemed well trained, and their service was both polite and naturally warm.With the Kumano Kodo registered as a World Heritage site, it seems visitors come from all over the world, and it was impressive to see how confidently and appropriately they assisted international guests as well.What I had been looking forward to most on this trip was the open-air bath.Just as rumored, it’s an incredibly open and relaxing rotenburo with sweeping ocean views right in front of you. From 3:00 p.m., we took our time enjoying the hot springs while listening to the sound of waves—an indulgent experience indeed.Since the men’s and women’s baths alternate daily, we also enjoyed the other open-air bath starting at 6:00 a.m. The hot spring in crisp morning air felt especially refreshing.The meals were also excellent—many delicious dishes making great use of local ingredients—allowing us to fully enjoy flavors unique to Kumano. The staff member assigned to our table provided attentive service throughout, so we could relax and enjoy every moment of dinner.It takes about five hours by car from our home, so it isn’t easy for us to visit often—but even so, this is a wonderful place where we would love to stay again.This trip combined sightseeing at Seiganto-ji Temple, shrines in Kumano, Nachi Falls, and our stay on Nakanoshima into one truly memorable journey.We are grateful for the beautiful sea views, outstanding open-air baths, delicious cuisine—and above all—for everyone’s heartfelt hospitality.If you’re considering a trip to the Kumano area, I highly recommend this property.

We couldn’t celebrate my mother’s 80th birthday in August, so we decided on a last-minute trip and stayed at your inn.I’ve stayed at many places in Japan and abroad, and the hot spring here was the best I’ve ever experienced.Also, as many reviews mention, thank you for the lovely flowers you gave my mother. She was truly delighted and continued to display them carefully even after we returned home.It felt like there were many young staff members, and everyone was friendly and welcoming. In particular, when we left the island by boat at the end of our stay, a young male staff member saw us off and kept waving until we were completely out of sight—my mother was moved to tears.I know opinions vary about the meals, but they suited both of us perfectly, and the portions were more than enough.It’s quite far from where we live—at the far edge of the Kinki region—so it may be difficult to visit again soon, but next time we would love to come with our whole family. We look forward to seeing you then.