Across the sea from Hiroshima, Miyajima has long been known as one of the most scenic places in Japan. Sitting on the island's very popular Omotesando Avenue (the shopping is fantastic!), the Kurayado Iroha Ryokan couldn't have a better view of the island's floating Torii Gate and shimmering water beyond. Staying true to its very authentic roots, a stay at the Kurayado Iroha is all about bubbling, spring-fed baths and kaiseki cuisine prepared with local ingredients, including vegetables from the Chugoku Mountains and seafood caught fresh every day. Become absorbed by the magic of Miyajima Island as you wander from shrine to shrine, and take in the splendid views.
/132.32189251176396,34.29956182592323,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
Possessing all the charms of a traditional ryokan, Kurayado also reflects a more contemporary side of Japan with added sleek touches and mod cons. On the fifth floor, you'll find a selection of indoor and outdoor spring-fed baths, plus a gorgeous sea view from the latter. Overlooking the water, the dining room is simple and intimate, offering authentic Japanese cuisine prepared with locally-sourced ingredients (and there’s a child-friendly menu too). Your host will guide you through each dish, making for a fun and unique way to dine.
The ryokan has a variety of rooms with either futon or Western-style beds topped with down duvets and furnished with tatami mats and low, polished dining tables. Most have a minimal sitting area too. Other amenities include wifi, a TV and DVD player and coffee and tea facilities, as well as a complimentary yukata (kimono) and slippers, which you can wear to the baths. The bathrooms are pristine, and a wet room space houses the shower and tub. The best rooms enjoy a sea view so we'd definitely plump for one of those.
The iconic Itsukushima Shrine and 'floating' Torii Gate are just a 10-minute walk from the ryokan and a multitude of other Shinto shrines, including the Daishoin Temple, are easily accessible. Otherwise, the ryokan is right on one of the island's major shopping hubs for some serious retail therapy (make sure to stop for grilled oysters at one of the fantastic restaurants, watching as tame deer wander past), or make use of the shuttle to the base of Mount Misen for a picturesque cable car ride.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in your eyeline and feeling worlds away from reality… What could be better?
The baths are open from 6am to midnight but the view is especially lovely at sunset, followed by a warming soak.
Certain rooms face the street instead of the sea and can receive noise from below. We'd definitely opt for a sea view!
Let yourself be engulfed by this idyllic island, where nature and spirituality intertwine.
