Description
Iwaso is the most famous Ryokan on the island of Miyajima with a history spanning more than 145 years. As it was also the first Ryokan to open on the island, it has a superior and idyllic location in Japan's stunningly beautiful Momijidani Park.
The newest part of the Iwaso Ryokan was built in 1981 and these tatami floor rooms have private bathrooms and very peaceful views of a stream and the surrounding woodland. For the ultimate experience there are a couple of separate cottages (hanare) that are more than 80 years old, all exquisitely decorated featuring old wooden bathtubs. Open your shoji screens to see maples, a gurgling brook and woods, all in utter privacy.
Breakfasts and lunches are served in the hotel's Momiji restaurant which has a lovely veranda overlooking the Momijidani River. You’ll be treated like royalty throughout your stay at Iwaso and will enjoy delicious fresh and seasonal cuisine opulently served to you each evening in the comfort and peace of your own guest room.
Accommodation
Iwaso's 38 rooms are in 3 buildings all elegantly designed with traditional lattice work and Japanese influences. We recommend rooms in the Shinkan building as they have private bathrooms or stay in a Hanare cottage for an authentic and more private experience .
Childcare
Children are welcome at Iwaso but there are no specific facilities for families. Babysitting can be arranged on request.
Facilities
Iwaso has a lovely traditional tea lounge and peaceful library. Momiji restaurant has a lovely riverside veranda and is open for lunch (breakfast and dinner are served in the privacy of your guest room). Not to be missed are the various spa baths - sampling these in such beautiful surrounds is a wonderful way to pass the hours.
Activities
Iwaso's location is ideal for nature walks or visit the Itsukushima shrine, a World Heritage Site only a few minutes walk away and beautifully illuminated at night.
When to travel
Spring and autumn are the best times to travel, with the delicate cherry blossom or turning leaves adding a gorgeous hue to the scenery. The cherry blossom begins its journey northward in mid-March, reaching Kyoto and Tokyo by early April, and finally arriving in Sapporo by early May. The autumn leaves reverse the pattern, touching the high peaks of Hokkaido in mid-October and marching steadily south to Kyoto by mid-November.
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Location and directions
Miyajima, Japan
Located on Miyajima Island (also known as Itsukushima). It is 300m (a 3 minute walk) from Iwaso to Itsukushima Shrine.
How to get there
12-hour International flight to Tokyo International Airport-Haneda, followed by a 2-hour Shinkansen (bullet train) journey to Hiroshima and a 20-minute Ferry. This is recommended as part of a longer Japan itinerary
