Ibusuki Royal Hotel Review

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This secluded mountain retreat offers a genuine slice of Japanese hospitality in Kagoshima’s peaceful countryside. We found the 30-minute journey from the station worth it for the traditional rooms, whether you choose Western-style beds or sleep on tatami mats. The outdoor pool and natural hot spring baths (onsen) provide perfect relaxation after exploring nearby gems like the Iwasaki Art Museum.

During our stay, the attentive staff and immaculately maintained rooms impressed us, while soaking in the mineral-rich baths proved truly therapeutic. The Asian-style breakfast spread hit the spot, though dinner options are somewhat limited.

A couple of honest drawbacks: The remote location means you’re fairly isolated from restaurants and shops, and if you’re not comfortable with Japanese food, evening dining choices are restricted to the hotel’s restaurant.

This hotel is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese resort experience away from city bustle, especially onsen enthusiasts and couples wanting a romantic countryside escape. It’s also perfect for anyone looking to decompress in nature while enjoying traditional Japanese hospitality.

We included this hotel in our 16 favorite hotels in Ibusuki.

Good To Know

Ibusuki Royal Hotel - Good To Know

  • The Ibusuki Royal Hotel is located 30 miles from Kagoshima Chuo Station, with nearby attractions like the Iwasaki Art Museum within a 16-minute walk.
  • The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including Deluxe Rooms, Standard Rooms, Japanese-Style Rooms, and Western-Style Rooms, all featuring modern amenities.
  • The on-site restaurant serves daily Asian breakfast and dinner, providing a family-friendly dining experience for hotel guests.
  • Guests have praised the hotel’s traditional decor, spacious rooms, and enjoyable onsen experience with ocean views.
  • The hotel has implemented enhanced COVID-19 measures, including mandatory masks in indoor areas and limited services.

Hotel Location and Accessibility

The Ibusuki Royal Hotel is situated roughly 30 miles away from Kagoshima Chuo Station, making it a bit of a trek for those relying on public transportation.

However, the hotel’s remote location offers guests a peaceful retreat, with nearby attractions like the Iwasaki Art Museum just a 16-minute walk away.

While the distance from the train station may be a drawback for some, the hotel’s secluded setting amidst nature provides a tranquil atmosphere that many travelers find appealing.

Those looking to explore the area will find the hotel’s proximity to Flower Park Kagoshima and Kagoshima Airport convenient, though the trip may require some advance planning.

Accommodation Options and Features

Ibusuki Royal Hotel - Accommodation Options and Features

Ibusuki Royal Hotel offers guests a variety of accommodation options to suit their needs.

Guests can choose from Deluxe Rooms with a Tatami Area and Ocean View, Standard Rooms with a Tatami Area, Japanese-Style Rooms, or Western-Style Rooms. Each room features air conditioning, a closet, an electric kettle, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.

The hotel also boasts an array of amenities, including a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a restaurant, a terrace, a garden, a hot spring bath, a public bath, and an open-air bath.

Guests can enjoy a relaxing and traditional Japanese experience during their stay.

Onsite Dining and Meals

Ibusuki Royal Hotel - Onsite Dining and Meals

Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options at the Ibusuki Royal Hotel. The hotel offers an Asian breakfast daily.

The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, though reservations are required. The family-friendly restaurant provides a relaxing ambiance for meals.

While the hotel caters to its guests, the limited dinner options may disappoint non-hotel visitors.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Guests’ experiences at the Ibusuki Royal Hotel have been overwhelmingly positive, with the property earning an impressive 8.3 rating from 273 reviews.

Guests have praised the hotel’s professionalism, with the staff receiving a 9.3 rating. The traditional decor, spacious and clean rooms, and enjoyable onsen experience with ocean views have also received high marks.

Visitors have appreciated the friendly service and relaxing environment.

However, some guests have noted the hotel’s challenging location, as it’s 30 miles from the nearest train station, and the limited dinner options for non-hotel guests.

  • High praise for staff professionalism (9.3 rating)
  • Beautiful traditional decor, spacious and clean rooms
  • Enjoyable onsen experience and ocean views
  • Friendly service and relaxing environment
  • Limited dinner options for non-hotel guests

Booking Policies and Procedures

When planning a stay at the Ibusuki Royal Hotel, guests will want to be aware of the property’s booking policies and procedures. The hotel has a specific check-in and check-out schedule, with guests able to arrive from 3:00 PM and required to depart by 10:00 AM. Plus, children of all ages are welcome, but the hotel does not provide cribs or extra beds. Pets are not allowed on the premises. Cancellation policies vary based on accommodation type, so guests should review the details when booking. To ensure a safe stay, the hotel has implemented enhanced COVID-19 measures, including required face masks in indoor areas and limited services.

PoliciesDetails
Check-In/Check-Out3:00 PM – 10:00 AM
Child PolicyChildren welcome, no cribs/extra beds
Pet PolicyPets not allowed
CancellationVaries by room type
COVID-19 MeasuresMasks required, limited services

Amenities and Recreational Facilities

The Ibusuki Royal Hotel boasts an array of amenities and recreational facilities to enhance guests’ stay.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • A seasonal outdoor swimming pool for refreshing dips
  • Free private parking for those arriving by car
  • An on-site restaurant serving breakfast and dinner
  • A relaxing terrace and beautifully maintained gardens
  • Access to traditional Japanese hot spring baths, including an open-air onsen

These facilities, combined with the hotel’s elegant decor and exceptional service, create a truly memorable experience for travelers seeking a rejuvenating stay in Ibusuki.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Beyond the hotel’s modern amenities, Ibusuki Royal Hotel’s prime location allows guests to easily explore the area’s rich cultural and historical attractions.

Within a 16-minute walk, visitors can discover the Iwasaki Art Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of Japanese and Western art.

Just a short 6.5-mile drive away, the Flower Park Kagoshima offers a peaceful botanical garden experience.

For those seeking a deeper connection to the region’s heritage, the Kagoshima Airport, located 55 miles from the hotel, provides access to the wider Kagoshima prefecture, known for its ancient shrines, castles, and volcanic landscapes.

Health and Safety Protocols

Ibusuki Royal Hotel’s COVID-19 protocols prioritize guest safety with enhanced cleaning procedures and limited services.

The hotel has implemented the following measures:

  • Frequent disinfection of high-touch areas and common spaces
  • Mandatory face masks required in all indoor public areas
  • Social distancing guidelines enforced throughout the property
  • Contactless check-in and check-out processes
  • Reduced occupancy in the on-site restaurant and limited menu options

While these precautions may impact the overall guest experience, Ibusuki Royal Hotel remains committed to providing a safe and comfortable stay during the pandemic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ibusuki Royal Hotel - Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Hotel Offer Any Discounts or Packages?

The hotel offers various discounts and packages, such as seasonal promotions and group rates. Guests should inquire about available offers when booking to take advantage of potential savings on their stay.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Beverages to the Hotel?

Guests can bring their own food and beverages to the hotel, but there’s an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner. The hotel also has facilities like a fridge in rooms for storing guests’ own items.

What Is the Dress Code for the On-Site Restaurant?

The on-site restaurant doesn’t have a strict dress code. Casual attire is generally acceptable, though guests may want to avoid overly informal clothing out of respect for the hotel.

Are There Any Nearby Shopping or Entertainment Options?

There are a few nearby shopping and entertainment options, including the Iwasaki Art Museum 16 minutes away on foot and Flower Park Kagoshima about 6.5 miles from the hotel. However, the hotel’s remote location limits easily accessible offsite activities.

Can the Hotel Arrange Transportation Services for Guests?

The hotel can arrange transportation services for guests, including shuttle transfers to nearby attractions and airports. They offer convenient options to help guests easily get around and explore the local area.

The Sum Up

The Ibusuki Royal Hotel provides a serene and rejuvenating retreat in the coastal town of Ibusuki. With its impressive ratings, diverse accommodation options, and array of on-site amenities, the hotel offers a memorable cultural experience in the heart of southern Japan. Whether travelers seek relaxation, cuisine, or exploration, the Ibusuki Royal Hotel caters to a variety of preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enriching stay.