Kikunoya — Local services in Hatsukaichi

This is an immersive Japanese experience, you must be prepared to have things in exactly the way the hosts suggest. Dinner time, breakfast and sleeping arrangements are pr scribed clearly.

Their biggest problem is that they do not give you the clear information about the food. They are all very nice, but when aiming yourself at an international market, some clarity on ingredients is really helpful. I asked if something was oyster and was told 'No. ..... Meat', it was clam. I asked about the sashimi and was told fish, it was squid. I would suggests you are very very specific about your dietary requirements. Sending in both English and Japanese the foods you cannot eat or are intolerant of. This will improve your experience. Asking a waiter is rarely enlightening.

The place is special no doubt. But it is not flexible. Despite wanting to relax in our room, we had to rush down to dinner after check in. The meal times are strict, with no flex. When we came back to the room to play some cards and socialise as a family, the table was removed and beds were placed in. This is normal for the Japanese, but takes a bit of understanding for us. If you are a couple looking for a unique experience, this might be it. If you are a family with kids around 10 years old, probably not the right place. There is little instruction on how to use an onsen. So despite having to be naked, you watch those around you and copy! I don't want you to think this is a bad place, it is magical. Unfortunately our...

Honestly a great place to stay if you plan to enjoy all Miyajima has to offer. Quick walk to both the shrine and up the hill to Momiji Park and the ropeway. Our room was a great size, and the onsen baths were wonderful. Well maintained and the outdoor bath was the perfect temperature. Also we let them know last minute that we needed vegetarian breakfast (I forgot it was included so neglected to tell them in advance). And they still had it handled by the next morning! Great service. The footbath out front is a nice bonus, and even when the cafe is closed you can ask at the front desk and they'll bring out drinks for you to enjoy while you soak. There's a microwave next to the vending machines, handy if you bring your own dinner like we did since places close so early on the island. They also sell local beer and other alcohol at the front desk to bring to your room. They picked us up at the ferry terminal after a quick phone call (just arrive before 19:00), and after holding our bags all day they brought us back there when it was time to depart. Overall...

Kikunoya is a hotel nearby the shopping district and the Great Torii, approximately 10 minutes on foot. It also is close to the beginning of the trail to hike up to Mt. Misen.

The staff are incredibly nice and helpful, they speak enough English to help you get everything in order. They even recommended places to get food and drinks. There is a hot foot bath (and bar) at the entrance outside which can be used for free for hotel stayers (hours may vary). There is also a public bath which I recommend taking advantage of as it is quite relaxing.

The rooms are spacious enough and everything is clean and orderly. In the rooms includes a safe and a pair of Japanese formal wear, the yukata. You would wear this as pajamas, to the bath, and even outside if you so desire. Breakfast is included with the stay and you may choose your time on the voucher as well as either a western or traditional Japanese breakfast.

Highly recommended, but book early as prices may...