JapanTravel Tips

Hotel and Lodging Options around Iwakuni

1. What is the most popular hotel in Iwakuni?


The most popular hotel in Iwakuni is the Kure Hankyu Hotel.

2. Are there any budget-friendly lodging options near Iwakuni Castle?


Yes, there are budget-friendly lodging options in the vicinity of Iwakuni Castle. Some popular choices include guesthouses, hostels, and business hotels such as:
1. Guest House Fuu (approximately 15 minutes walk from the castle)
2. Kikuya Ryokan (10 minutes walk)
3. Hotel Nishikiya (12 minutes walk)
4. Toyoko Inn Iwakuni Ekimae (14 minutes walk)
5. APA Hotel Yamaguchi-Iwakuni-Ekimae (20 minutes walk)
Prices may vary depending on the season and availability, but these options typically offer convenient access to the castle at a more affordable price compared to traditional hotels.

3. Can you recommend any traditional Japanese ryokans (inns) in Iwakuni?


Yes, here are three traditional Japanese ryokans in Iwakuni that come highly recommended by travelers:

1. Ochaya Kikusui: This ryokan is located near the Kintai Bridge and offers cozy Japanese-style rooms with tatami floors, futon beds, and traditional decor. Guests can also enjoy a communal bath and delicious traditional meals.

2. Shin Sen Ryokan: This ryokan is situated in the historic district of Iwakuni, close to attractions such as the Kintaikyo Bridge and Iwakuni Castle. The rooms are spacious and feature traditional design elements, and guests can relax in the public baths or dine on local cuisine.

3. Hana no Yado Matsunoya: Located just a 10-minute walk from JR Iwakuni Station, this ryokan offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful gardens surrounding the property. The rooms are designed in traditional Japanese style and guests can indulge in a kaiseki meal (multi-course dinner) prepared with local ingredients.

Please note that reservations at these ryokans may be required well in advance due to their popularity.

4. Is it better to stay in a hotel or a guesthouse for a longer stay in Iwakuni?

It ultimately depends on personal preference and budget. Hotels may offer more amenities and services, while guesthouses may provide a more local and immersive experience. It’s recommended to research both options and choose based on your specific needs and preferences.

5. Are there any accommodations with ocean views in Iwakuni?


Yes, there are several accommodations in Iwakuni that offer ocean views. Some options include the Hotel Tabeso, Grande Vista Hotel Iwakuni, and Morinoyado Umehara. These hotels offer rooms or suites with balconies or large windows facing the Seto Inland Sea for a scenic ocean view. Many of these accommodations also have restaurants or lounges with panoramic views of the ocean.

6. What amenities are typically included in hotels in Iwakuni?


Some common amenities that can be found in hotels in Iwakuni include:

1. Free Wi-Fi: Most hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi for guests to use during their stay.

2. Air conditioning: As Iwakuni can have hot and humid summers, air conditioning is a standard feature in most hotels.

3. On-site restaurant or dining options: Many hotels offer on-site restaurants where guests can enjoy meals, snacks, and drinks.

4. Fitness center: Some larger hotels may have a fitness center or gym for guests to exercise during their stay.

5. Laundry facilities: Some hotels offer laundry services or self-service laundry facilities for guests to use.

6. Room service: Depending on the hotel, room service may be available for guests who prefer to dine in the comfort of their room.

7. Business center: Those traveling for business may benefit from access to a business center with computers, printers, and other office equipment.

8. Parking: Many hotels in Iwakuni offer parking facilities for guests with vehicles.

9. Non-smoking rooms: Most hotels have designated non-smoking rooms for guests who prefer smoke-free accommodations.

10. In-room amenities: This can vary between different hotels but may include features such as a mini-fridge, kettle, television, and toiletries.

7. Are there any pet-friendly accommodations near Kintai Bridge?


Yes, there are a few pet-friendly accommodations near Kintai Bridge. Some options include Pension Natsume, Hotel Route-Inn Iwakuni, and Hotel Nishiki. It is recommended to confirm the pet policies and availability with the specific accommodation before booking your stay.

8. Are there any all-inclusive resorts or packages available in Iwakuni?

There are not currently any all-inclusive resorts or packages in Iwakuni, Japan. However, there are many hotels and guesthouses offering discounted rates for long-term stays and package deals that include accommodations and activities. It is recommended to research and compare different options to find the best package for your needs. Additionally, some tour companies may offer all-inclusive packages for day trips or tours in the area.

9. Is it possible to camp or stay at a cabin near Miyajima Island from Iwakuni?

Yes, it is possible to camp or stay at a cabin near Miyajima Island from Iwakuni. There are several camping grounds and vacation rental options located on the mainland near Miyajima, such as the Kikkugahama Campground and Ropeway & Cottage Shiraishi, that offer easy access to the island. Additionally, many hotels in Iwakuni offer day trips or shuttle services to Miyajima Island for travelers who wish to visit for a day trip. However, it is important to note that most accommodations on the mainland do not have direct views of the island and may require transportation via train or ferry to reach.

Some recommended options for staying near Miyajima Island from Iwakuni include:

1. Kikkugahama Campground – This campground offers tent and RV sites with stunning ocean views and easy access to Miyajima Island. They also have a variety of facilities including hot showers, cooking areas, and BBQ grills.

2. Ropeway & Cottage Shiraishi – Located just a 5-minute walk from JR Ajina Station, this vacation rental offers cozy cottages with fully equipped kitchenettes. Guests can take a short ferry ride to reach Miyajima from nearby JR Hiroshima Station.

3. Hotel Active – Situated in downtown Iwakuni, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and is just a 20-minute drive from Miyajima Island.

Overall, there are multiple accommodation options available for travelers looking to explore Miyajima Island while staying near Iwakuni.

10. Are there any unique lodging options, such as homestays, in Iwakuni?


Yes, there are a few unique lodging options in Iwakuni such as:

1. Traditional Japanese Ryokans: These are traditional inns where you can experience the authentic Japanese hospitality and accommodations, including tatami mat rooms, communal baths, and kaiseki-style meals.

2. Minshukus: These are smaller, family-run guesthouses that offer a more intimate and personal stay experience compared to larger hotels.

3. Temple stays: Some temples in Iwakuni offer lodging for tourists who want to experience a traditional Japanese temple lifestyle, participate in temple activities such as meditation and sutra copying, and enjoy vegetarian meals.

4. Farmstays: Visitors can stay on local farms to experience rural life in Iwakuni and participate in farm activities such as harvesting crops or tending to animals.

5. Homestays: Foreign visitors can stay with local families to immerse themselves in the culture and daily life of everyday Japanese people.

6. Capsule hotels: These unique lodgings provide small individual capsules for sleeping instead of traditional hotel rooms, ideal for budget travelers or those looking for an unconventional lodging experience.

7. Glamping: There are a few glamping (luxury camping) sites outside of Iwakuni city that offer comfortable accommodations in nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, some of these unique lodging options may not be available at this time. Please check before booking your stay.

11. Which neighborhood or area of Iwakuni is best for finding affordable lodging options?

Some of the more affordable neighborhoods in Iwakuni include Otake, Kuga, and Yonago. These areas have a variety of housing options such as apartments and guesthouses that may be more budget-friendly compared to other areas in Iwakuni. Additionally, areas near the Iwakuni Naval Base, like Higashikiracho and Iwakunishimachi, also tend to have more affordable lodging options due to a higher demand for housing from military personnel.

12. Can you recommend any hotels with hot spring baths (onsen) nearby?


1. Hotel Hanakoyado – located next to the famous Arima Onsen in Kobe, Japan
2. KAI Hakone – situated in the scenic Hakone area and offers traditional hot spring baths
3. Yunohana Resort Suisenkaku – nestled in the mountains of Kyoto and boasts several different types of hot spring baths
4. Yumotoso Honkan – located in Nikko National Park and features indoor and outdoor hot spring baths
5. Dogo Prince Hotel – located near the historic Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Japan
6. Gora Hanaougi Sounkaku – situated in a peaceful hillside village in Hakone with private open-air hot spring baths
7. Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji – conveniently located near Mt. Takao and offers Japanese-style rooms with private onsen tubs
8. Senkei Annex Romeitei Hotel – situated near Lake Ashi in Hakone and features a large public onsen bath with stunning views of Mount Fuji
9. Unzen Kanko Hotel – set amidst the natural beauty of Mount Unzen and offers both indoor and outdoor onsen baths
10. Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu – located near the famous Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo’s traditional Asakusa district, this ryokan has its own onsen facility for guests to enjoy.
11. Nishimuraya Honkan Luxury Ryokan & Hot Spring – a luxurious ryokan set within a serene bamboo grove in Kinosaki Onsen, known for their seven public hot springs.
12. Kaijukan Bekkan Sekitei – situated among lush greenery on Yakushima island, this hotel boasts its own private beach as well as an outdoor onsen surrounded by nature.

13. What are the check-in and check-out times at hotels in Iwakuni?

A:

Check-in and check-out times can vary between hotels in Iwakuni, but they typically follow this general guideline:

– Check-in time: 3:00 PM or later
– Check-out time: 11:00 AM or earlier

However, some hotels may have flexible check-in and check-out times, so it is best to check with your specific hotel for their exact times.

14. Are there any pet-friendly hotels in Iwakuni?
A:

Yes, there are a few pet-friendly hotels in Iwakuni. It is best to contact the hotel directly to inquire about their specific pet policies and any additional fees that may apply.

15. Can I make a reservation at a love hotel in Iwakuni?
A:

It is not common for love hotels to offer online reservations, as they generally cater to spontaneous bookings. However, if you know the name of a specific love hotel in Iwakuni, you may be able to call and inquire about making a reservation over the phone.

16. Are there any capsule hotels in Iwakuni?
A:

There are currently no capsule hotels in Iwakuni. However, there are several budget-friendly options such as hostels and guesthouses that provide similar shared sleeping accommodations.

17. How can I find cheap hotels in Iwakuni?
A:

To find cheap hotels in Iwakuni, consider using hotel search engines or booking websites where you can compare prices from multiple properties at once. You can also look for budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses. Flexible travel dates may also help you find better deals.

18. What types of amenities can be expected at business hotels in Iwakuni?
A:

Business hotels in Iwakuni typically offer amenities geared towards business travelers such as free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms or conference facilities, business centers or services (such as printing and faxing), and sometimes even free breakfast. Some may also have added features like gym or spa facilities, airport shuttle services, or on-site restaurants and bars for convenience.

19. Do any hotels in Iwakuni offer all-inclusive packages?
A:

No, there are no all-inclusive hotels in Iwakuni as this concept is not popular in Japan. However, some accommodations may offer package deals that include meals or activities at their hotel or nearby attractions.

20. Are there any traditional Japanese Ryokan-style hotels in Iwakuni?
A:

Yes, there are a few traditional Japanese Ryokan-style hotels in Iwakuni where guests can experience traditional Japanese hospitality and culture. These types of accommodations typically feature tatami-matted rooms, communal baths, and Japanese-style meals served with local ingredients.

14. Are there any accommodations within walking distance of Kintaikyo Hot Spring Village?

Yes, there are several accommodations within walking distance of Kintaikyo Hot Spring Village. Some options include Iwakuni Kokusai Kanko Hotel, Kikunoya Ryokan, and Aero Vest Hotel. Each of these accommodations is less than a 10-minute walk from the hot spring village.

15. How far is it from the airport to the nearest hotels and what transportation options are available?


The distance from the airport to the nearest hotels varies depending on which hotel you choose. However, most hotels are within 3-20 miles of the airport.

Transportation options from the airport to the nearest hotels may include:

1. Hotel shuttles: Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests. You can check with your hotel if this is an option for you.

2. Taxis or rideshare services: There are taxis and rideshare services available at the airport. You can easily book a ride to your hotel from one of these services.

3. Public transportation: Depending on the city, there may be public transportation options such as buses or trains that can take you to the nearest hotels.

4. Rental cars: If you plan on renting a car during your trip, you can pick up your rental car at the airport and drive yourself to your hotel.

5. Airport parking lot shuttle: Some parking lots at airports offer shuttles to nearby hotels for a fee. You can check with your parking provider for more information.

16. Do any hotels offer shuttle services to popular tourist attractions like Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park or Okunoshima Island?


Some hotels in Hiroshima do offer shuttle services to popular tourist attractions like Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park or Okunoshima Island. The Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel, for example, offers a daily shuttle service to both Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park and Okunoshima Island. Other hotels may also offer similar shuttle services, so it is best to check with your specific hotel for availability and schedules.

17. Can we book a traditional tatami room at a hotel in Iwakuni?

Yes, there are several hotels in Iwakuni that offer traditional tatami rooms. Some options include:

1. Kikko Ryokan: This hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers both Western-style rooms and Japanese-style tatami rooms. It also has an on-site restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine.

2. Iroha Ryokan: This cozy ryokan (traditional inn) offers spacious tatami rooms with traditional futon bedding. Guests can enjoy a communal bath and traditional multi-course meals during their stay.

3. Kokusai Kanko Hotel Kojima: This hotel is situated on a hill overlooking the city and features both Western-style guestrooms and Japanese-style tatami rooms with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

4. Matsukaze Ryokan: Located near Kintaikyo Bridge, this ryokan offers quiet and comfortable tatami rooms, as well as an outdoor hot spring bath and a traditional tea ceremony experience.

Be sure to check with your preferred hotel for availability and rates for their tatami room options.

18.Are discounts available for military personnel on base looking for lodging off-base?

It depends on the specific lodging establishment. Some may offer military discounts for off-base lodging, while others may not. It is best to contact the lodging establishment directly to inquire about any available discounts for military personnel.

19.Can you recommend any beachfront accommodations near Yuda Onsen?

Yes, here are some beachfront accommodations near Yuda Onsen:

1. Yamagata Grand Hotel – located about a 10-minute walk from Yuda Onsen, this luxurious hotel has its own private beach on the Sea of Japan. Guests can enjoy ocean views from their rooms and relax in the hotel’s public hot spring baths.

2. Diamond Resort Yatsugatake – situated about 15 minutes from Yuda Onsen by car, this resort offers a more secluded beachfront experience with spacious villas and cottages overlooking Lake Suwa.

3. Shoya Tabiji – this beachfront ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is located about 20 minutes from Yuda Onsen by car. It features an outdoor hot spring bath facing the sea and serves delicious meals using fresh local seafood.

4. Susami Kohtaki Hotel – located directly on the coast of Susami Bay, this family-friendly hotel is about a 30-minute drive from Yuda Onsen. It offers comfortable rooms with ocean views and has its own private beach for guests to enjoy.

5. Okinawa Sun Coast Hotel – situated on the island of Oshima, this charming beachfront hotel can be reached by ferry or air from Kobe Airport (about a 1-hour flight). Guests can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and Mt. Mihara while soaking in the hot spring baths on-site.

20.How far is the nearest campground or RV park from sightseeing spots like Shuhocho Sunland Open-Air Bath and Tenen Hiking Trail?


The nearest campground or RV park to Shuhocho Sunland Open-Air Bath is the Tachikikai Campground, which is about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) away. The nearest campground or RV park to Tenen Hiking Trail is the Nakanosawa Campsite, which is about 7.5 kilometers (4.7 miles) away.