Naoshima Ryokan Roka

Our stay had mixed feelings. It should have been the highlight of our 3-week Japan trip. but our stay included breakfast & dinner was disappointed and was not the high amount of money worth. While the resort is really beautiful and modern authentic designed the hospitality skills of the Japanese staff was not there at all. Luckily half of their staff is not from Japan, and these staff is correct in there communication and have good hospitality skills, without this staff this resort will not survived I guess. The presentation of the food is nice but the food was tasteless and was disappointing compared to other places we visited in our 3 week trip. Our sushi dinner was managed by an unfriendly, arrogant chef, who distorted our evening. Every time we ask something it was to much for him, it was a really a unwelcome feeling. This was also the feeling from our neighbors that making big complain about allergy issues this evening. The ryokan only offered breakfast and dinner, which is surprising. Arriving back at 13 o'clock, food or even a snack not available. We were grateful for the effort of a Belgian staffs member, for her help to get some bread and jam because this resort is situated in the middle of nowhere. Regarding the room they look stylish and are nice designed but be aware a sleep mask is necessity for darkness (there are no Curtans in the bedroom) and the rooms are extremely noisy from your neighbors. The bed was a traditional thin Japanese and give me some back problems, and the pillows were small, though this is subjective. We stayed in so many nice hotels and resorts but unfortunately this was not wat we expect from the price point of view. We will not recommend to stay here.

Couldn’t fault our experience here. It was an unforgettable and very special stay. Amazing and personalised service from all the staff. The room was outstanding - with a private onsen and beautiful view looking out over vegetation and art. The atmosphere was calm and peaceful. The food was excellent and top quality. Each meal was a memorable experience. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a unique stay in Naoshima. It’s amazing value for money with the experience that we had. I don’t think you could stay anywhere better on the island. Fantastic base to explore.