The small town of Hongu, nestled in Wakayama Prefecture, specializes in traditional Japanese inns with natural hot springs. I love Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya for its riverside location and outdoor baths. Ryokan Adumaya wins points for its excellent kaiseki meals and peaceful garden views. The historic Yunominesou offers the most authentic Japanese experience, complete with tatami rooms and private hot spring baths.
Two more solid choices caught my attention: Kawayu Onsen Fujiya stands out for its therapeutic hot springs, while Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri impresses with its mountain views and seasonal local cuisine.
Let’s explore the full details of these top Hongu accommodations.
Good To Know
- Ryokan Adumaya stands out with its exceptional staff, delicious kaiseki dinner, and prime location minutes from popular attractions like Yunomine Onsen.
- Yunominesou offers elegant rooms, stunning nature views from outdoor hot spring baths, and highly-rated Japanese breakfast and dinner dining.
- Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri is a top-rated hotel with free parking, non-smoking rooms, and facilities for disabled guests near key landmarks.
- Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya provides a range of accommodations, spa services, open-air bath, and a highly praised on-site restaurant.
- Kawayu Onsen Fujiya is a historic ryokan along the Kawayu River, offering various hot spring baths and traditional Japanese-style multi-course meals.
Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya
Situated in the heart of Hongu, Wakayama, Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya is a revered ryokan that captivates guests with its picturesque location near the Kawayu Onsen Bus Stop.
This 8.6/10 rated ryokan offers a range of accommodations, from Japanese-style family rooms to standard twin rooms with river and forest views. Theres some good the property’s spa services, including an open-air bath and hot spring, as well as enjoy the on-site restaurant’s breakfast buffet and Japanese dinner.
The ryokan’s staff are praised for their exceptional helpfulness, and the facilities are commended for their cleanliness and comfort.
With its convenient location, impressive amenities, and high guest ratings, Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya is an excellent choice for those seeking a rejuvenating stay in Hongu.
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Ryokan Adumaya
Ryokan Adumaya is a highly-rated traditional Japanese inn located in the heart of Hongu, Wakayama. Rated 9.6/10 for its prime location, the inn sits just minutes from the famous Yunomine Onsen and is within easy reach of top attractions like Kumanokodo Nakahechi Museum of Art.
Guests can enjoy traditional-style rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as access to the property’s hot spring baths and open-air onsen. The exceptional staff and delicious meals, especially the kaiseki dinner, have earned rave reviews.
While the rooms receive mixed feedback on comfort and cleanliness, the ryokan’s overall guest experience is rated 8.7/10. For those seeking an authentic Japanese getaway, Ryokan Adumaya offers a serene and culturally immersive stay.
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Yunominesou
Nestled in the heart of Hongu, Wakayama, Yunominesou is a highly-rated ryokan that offers guests an immersive traditional Japanese experience.
Boasting a 9.1 rating from 90 guest reviews, this ryokan features elegant rooms with tatami flooring, sliding paper screens, and futon bedding. Guests can relax in the outdoor hot spring baths while enjoying stunning nature views.
The ryokan also provides amenities like free parking, Wi-Fi, and a gift shop. Dining is a highlight, with set-menu Japanese breakfasts and dinners served.
The staff receives exceptional reviews for their helpfulness and English proficiency.
Located just a 10-minute walk from the Tsuboyu hot spring and Kumano Kodo forest path, Yunominesou is an ideal base for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage region.
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Kawayu Onsen Fujiya
Located along the serene Kawayu River in Hongu, Wakayama, Kawayu Onsen Fujiya is a historic ryokan that offers guests a luxurious escape after hiking the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.
The property features various hot spring baths, including indoor, outdoor, and a river bath, as well as traditional Japanese-style rooms with futon bedding and modern rooms with Western beds.
Guests can enjoy sophisticated Japanese multi-course meals, including a traditional breakfast with local ingredients.
With a 7.8 out of 10 rating, Kawayu Onsen Fujiya is praised for its exceptional onsen experience, beautiful river views, and friendly staff.
The ryokan is easily accessible, just a 1-hour bus ride from JR Shingu Station and a 60-minute drive from Shirahama Airport.
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Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri
One of the top-rated hotels in the Hongu region, Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri offers guests a serene and rejuvenating stay amidst the natural beauty of Wakayama.
Boasting an excellent rating of 8.7 from 53 reviews, the hotel features free parking, non-smoking rooms, and facilities for disabled guests. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, and access to hot spring baths.
Room amenities include air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and shared bathroom facilities. Visitors have praised the peaceful environment, quality of meals, and friendly staff.
With its convenient location near landmarks like Hosshinmon Oji Shrine and Kumanokodo Nakahechi Museum of Art, Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri provides an ideal base for exploring the Hongu area.
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Watarase Onsen Hotel Yamayuri
The Watarase Onsen Hotel Yamayuri is a well-rated accommodation option in the Hongu region, boasting an impressive 8.5 score from 107 reviews.
Located within 8-35 miles of popular attractions, the hotel offers various room types with amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and shared bathrooms.
Guests can enjoy on-site dining, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and private and public onsen facilities set in a beautiful natural setting.
The hotel has a child-friendly policy, but pets aren’t allowed. Guests should note the quiet hours and non-smoking policy.
Transportation is limited, so car travel is recommended. The hotel’s cancellation policy varies by room type, so travelers should review the conditions when booking.
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Sansuikan Kawayu Matsuya
Situated along the banks of the scenic Kumano River, Sansuikan Kawayu Matsuya is a traditional ryokan that offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Hongu.
This 7.0-rated property boasts a public hot spring bath made from Hinoki cypress wood, fed by natural spring water. Guests can enjoy complimentary private parking, vending machines, coin-operated laundry, and air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities.
While on-site dining isn’t available, visitors can savor a buffet breakfast and dinner at the nearby sister property, Midoriya.
With its prime location just a 2-minute walk from the Kawayu Onsen bus stop and 10 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage Kumano Kodo Hongu Taisha Shrine, Sansuikan Kawayu Matsuya provides a serene home base for exploring the beautiful Wakayama region.
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The Sum Up
The best hotels in Hongu offer a range of traditional ryokans and modern onsen resorts. Visitors can enjoy the serene natural surroundings, soak in therapeutic hot springs, and experience authentic Japanese hospitality. Whether seeking a peaceful getaway or a culture, these top-rated accommodations in Hongu provide travelers with a memorable experience.