Where to stay if you are visiting Himaka island ｜ Isuzukan Review

Before the trip, we did a lot of research about the accommodation options on Himaka Island since we were traveling with my parents as well. In the end, we were all very satisfied with our stay at Isuzukan due to its accessibility, price, facilities, and especially the food, particularly the dinner that gave me my first ‘Blowfish’ experience. Here is my honest review of the staying experience at Isuzukan on Himaka Island.

ACCESS TO ISUZUKAN

Isuzukan is located just a 3-minute walk from “Himaka West Port.” You can easily spot this accommodation when you are on the ferry ride. I personally recommend staying near the main port, which is the WEST ONE, for more convenience, especially if you are staying overnight.

If you’re planning a visit to Himaka Island, you can refer to my previous blog on how to precisely travel from Nagoya Station.

FACILITIES AT ISUZUKAN

FRONT DESK

Check-in time is from 15:00, so we first completed the check-in process. Afterward, we stored our belongings at the accommodation and enjoyed the sights of Himaka Island. The staff were very nice and lovely.

LOBBY

I personally love the lobby here, and my 1-year-old son enjoyed the playroom in the lobby. It seems the lobby area has been renovated and has a very modern style.

PUBLIC BATH

The public bath is separated for males and females. If you are hesitant about using a public bath, I recommend going either right after you receive your room key or just before closing time. In my experience, these times have a high possibility of having no people at the onsen/public bath. Alternatively, you can book a room with a private bath for a little extra cost.

Although the guest room has a shower room, soaking in the onsen is one of my favorite aspects of staying at a Ryokan. It’s incredibly refreshing and feels amazing, especially when you enter the onsen outside, particularly in the freezing cold winter. There is an octopus pot called Takotsubo, human-sized, which adds an interesting and enjoyable touch, offering a blast of ocean views at the same time.

Before getting into the bath, it’s preferable to wash your body as it’s an onsen etiquette.

BANQUET HALL “HAMAYU”

Breakfast and dinner were served at HAMAYU on the 3rd floor, with tables arranged based on your bookings. My dad enjoyed watching the night view as ships frequently came in and out.

GUEST ROOM AT ISUZUKAN

We booked two Japanese-style rooms for ourselves and my parents. The staff kindly upgraded us to a larger room since we were traveling with a 1-year-old toddler. The main differences were evident in the upgraded room, which featured a more spacious entrance area, as shown in the picture below, and was slightly larger overall. Additionally, the upgraded room had a separate toilet and bath.

The standard room, as I checked the parents’ room, was also quite decent! In the Japanese-style room, when having dinner in the banquet room, the staff set up the futon for our sleep. However, if you’re not comfortable with Japanese-style futons, the ryokan also offers bed-type options, usually with separate beds.

DINNER AT ISUZUKAN

I was very excited to try the dinner at Isuzukan. Himaka Island is famous for octopus throughout the year and blowfish in the winter season. I understand that some of you may be hesitant to try blowfish due to its poisonous nature, and I shared the same concern. However, I believe that Japan is the safest country to try blowfish because chefs must have a blowfish cooking license in order to serve it.

It was my very first time trying blowfish, and I was at a loss for words after the experience. Seriously, it was exceptionally good, the best fish I’ve ever had. It’s truly worth trying at least once in your life.

They served incredibly fresh seafood, and everything was delicious. My dad was genuinely impressed by the dishes they offered. He mentioned that the fast drift of the tide in this area contributes to the exceptional taste of the seafood.

BREAKFAST AT ISUZUKAN

I wish I could enjoy such a super healthy Japanese breakfast every day

AROUND THE ISUZUKAN

HIMAKA ISLAND WEST PORT – 3 min by walking distance. The port has a baby resting area to change nappies and breastfeeding room.

SUNSET BEACH – Just in front of Isuzukan. It’s a good for swimming, but its covering the sheet in winter though still you can play with.

OTOHIME – 3 min by walking distance. A very reasonable and delicious lunch set.

KAMOME BAITEN – 3 min by walking distance, opposite side of Himaka west port. It’s a souvenir shop, and also they make yummy Tako manjyu that must to try out one for 55 yen.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BOOKING

NO BABY AMENITIES: Unlike a 5-star hotel, Isuzukan doesn’t provide baby or kids shampoo, so it’s advisable to bring your own. However, they do have a kids’ chair available in the breakfast and dinner area.

NO WATER BOTTLES: Although the information suggests tap water is safe to drink, some may not be accustomed to it. Additionally, if you use a heater in winter, the room might get very dry, prompting a need for water. I highly recommend purchasing at least one water bottle from the vending machine near Isuzukan or in front of the public bath on the 2nd floor.

INFORMATION DETAILS AT ISUZUKAN

Risa

Japanese Blogger

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A Japanese working mom based in Nagoya, Aichi. Studied International Tourism Management and worked in a 5 stars luxury hotel in Bangkok for total 8-ish years. Sharing our culture, lifestyle, local tips, and experiences in traveling, especially in Nagoya and Aichi 🇯🇵