Kinoe Onsen Hotel Seifukan

I have stayed at many Hotels and Ryokan with ocean views, but this was one of the most memorable. The views from the Room and the open-air bath were outstanding—thanks to the Hotel’s hilltop location with nothing obstructing the scenery, as well as the serene beauty of the Seto Inland Sea itself. There are very few man-made structures nearby, and the landscape created by the scattered islands is truly stunning. In the distance, we could see bridges of the Shimanami Kaido and parts of Imabari’s townscape, while boats passing below from time to time added a lovely touch to the view. I felt this Hotel is well worth staying at even just to relax and take in this scenery.Because it was listed as “Casual” on IKYU, I initially imagined a standard Hotel that simply highlights its views. In reality, however, we experienced warm, unpretentious hospitality from all staff members. Dinner was not a typical set menu; it showed thoughtful creativity throughout and was delicious. Breakfast was buffet-style, and in particular, I still remember how wonderful the locally harvested blueberries were.This time we rented a car at Hiroshima Station: on our first night we stayed at a Ryokan on Etajima; on day two we toured Takehara before taking a ferry over and enjoying beautiful Setouchi island views from Mount Kamimine prior to check-in. The next day we visited Okunoshima to spend time with its rabbits, then headed home via Mihara to Hiroshima Airport. The Hotel was also extremely convenient as a base for sightseeing routes starting from Hiroshima City toward Kure, Takehara, and Mihara—and we were fully satisfied with every aspect: scenery, dining, and hospitality.

We visited on a three-generation family trip.On the day, strong winds caused the ferry from Shikoku to be canceled.Because we were traveling from far away, the Hotel called to inform us, which we really appreciated.Fortunately, we had planned to come via a port on the Honshu side, so we arrived safely, but their thoughtfulness made us happy.We had two Japanese-style Rooms next to each other.They were typical Japanese-style Rooms and you could feel their age, but they were very clean and well maintained.The view from the Room window was spectacular.When we woke up early, we could also see the sunrise and start the day feeling refreshed.Dinner was served at table seating in a large banquet hall.It was luxurious with local ingredients, and we were completely full.The staff member serving us chatted with us about various things, which was enjoyable.For the sea bream rice cooked in a pot that we couldn’t finish, they kindly made it into rice balls so we could have it as a late-night snack.It was very delicious even when cold.We caused extra work for them, but we were truly grateful.Breakfast was buffet-style,with a wide variety of dishes and very satisfying.The large public bath also had an amazing view.The washing area was spacious and there was no waiting at all.It was thoroughly cleaned as well, which pleased us.In the early morning bath time, surprisingly many guests were already up early too,and it felt open and relaxing—a wonderful bath.I don’t think the building itself is new,but because everything was kept so clean it was very comfortable and pleasant to stay here.Overall, it was a very satisfying stay.There were many smiles among the staff and they greeted us properly—it’s a Hotel where you can really feel how good their hospitality is.