Located in Shuzenji Onsen, the first Onsen town we visited and at the time of writing – still the best.
Oni no Sumika offers a welcome combination of both traditional rooms, and rooms that are still traditional but with “western beds”, for an easier lift off bed in the morning. All rooms have their own private hot spring baths, with some featuring an outdoor Ofuro, for the ultimate experience of soaking in natural hot spring water set within a beautiful garden, the steam extenuated by the chilly autumn or winter air outside. No monkeys.
In addition, they offer home units suitable for a family with kids or a group of friends who want to stay together.
The gardens are beautiful, as they tend to be in traditional Japanese hotels, with the stock mossy rocks, and gorgeous plants and trees that seem to be there since before the hotel – which is largely true.
Finally, this lovely Ryokan boasts a kitchen set up by Michelin starred chef Katsutoshi Nakano, using seasonal domestic ingredients and traditional ingredients typical for Izu cuisine.
Only one hour and a half from Tokyo by train, or directly with a car which can be arrange by us through the hotel.
