Escape to Paradise: Ryugu Hotel's Shizuoka Oasis Awaits
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the turquoise waters and volcanic whispers of the Ryugu Hotel in Shizuoka, Japan. Forget the perfectly curated travel blogs. We're doing this real. I mean, I’m already dreaming of a post-Ryugu Hotel life. This is my honest, unfiltered, and slightly manic review. Let's go.
First Impressions, and the Struggle is Real (Accessibility Edition):
Finding the Ryugu Hotel felt like a quest. Shizuoka itself is stunning, all rolling hills and the tantalizing promise of Mount Fuji. But, as someone who occasionally struggles with stairs, the "accessibility" thing was high on my list. The good news? The hotel's website actually mentions facilities for disabled guests! (Bravo!). They also have elevators, which is a godsend.
Shout-out to the Accessibility Heroes:
- Elevator: YES. Essential. Thank you.
- Facilities for Disabled Guests: They've got them. Specifics on what are a little fuzzy, but hey, at least they acknowledge the need and they have elevators.
- (Potential for Improvement): I’m always wary of “accessible facilities” claims, and I didn't quite get around to figuring it out, but it did sound promising. Make sure to confirm directly if you've got specific needs.
Cleanliness AND Safety – Because We’re Living in Interesting Times:
Okay, let's be real. The world is a germ factory. Ryugu Hotel gets some major points for taking things seriously.
- Anti-viral Cleaning Products: Yes, please! My immune system is already thanking them.
- Daily Disinfection in Common Areas AND Rooms Sanitized Between Stays: Phew! Makes you feel like you can finally breathe.
- Hand Sanitizer: Everywhere. You can’t escape it. Excellent.
- Staff Trained in Safety Protocol: Always a good sign.
- Individually-Wrapped Food Options: I'm a sucker for a meticulously-wrapped croissan (more on the food later).
- Physical Distancing of at Least 1 Meter: They try. It’s a hotel, so there may be some close contacts.
The (Mostly) Heavenly Hideaway: Your Room
This is where Ryugu really shines. I'm talking about going from, like, a normal hotel to feeling like royalty.
- Free Wi-Fi in All Rooms! You can't live without the internet; it's a necessity.
- Air Conditioning: Hallelujah! Because, believe me, you'll appreciate it. It's hot in Japan.
- Blackout Curtains: Essential for sleeping off jet lag and generally pretending the world doesn't exist.
- Complimentary Tea/Coffee: A godsend for early risers (or hungover ones).
- Bathrobes and Slippers: Yes, yes, and yes! It's a must-have if you want to feel luxurious.
- Bathtub/Separate Shower: Double the water fun; it’s my kinda life.
- Mini Bar: Filled with tempting little treats. Resist if you can
- Safe: Lock away your worries, and expensive things.
- Extra Long Bed: Perfect for stretching out after a day of exploring.
- Wake-up Service: They’re good at getting me up from the dead.
- Soundproofing: A definite plus if you’re noise-sensitive, like me.
- Smoke Detector: They take safety seriously.
The Spa Scene & Relaxation (The Good Stuff!)
This is where I completely, utterly lost myself.
- Spa/Sauna/Steam Room: Oh. My. God. This. The spa is an absolute haven. I spent a glorious afternoon switching between the eucalyptus steam and the scorching sauna, and I still haven’t stopped thinking about it. It's that good.
- Pool with View: The outdoor pool is a dream, with endless panoramic views. I took a dip at sunset, and the sky was bleeding with color, and the water was warm. I think I actually saw a glimpse of paradise, too. It even has a poolside bar.
- Massage: I'm usually picky, but the massage was divine. They really know their stuff here. I left feeling like a new person.
- Foot bath: If you need an excuse to relax, this is it.
Food, Glorious Food…and a Few Hiccups:
Okay, food's important. And Ryugu Hotel, for the most part, crushes it.
- Restaurants (Multiple): You've got options!
- Asian Breakfast: Yes! The noodle soup was a life-changer.
- International Cuisine: They have a Western menu, too, but go Asian, trust me.
- Happy Hour: The perfect way to ease into the evening.
- Poolside Bar: Cocktails and sunshine? Don't mind if I do!
- A la carte in restaurant and Buffet: Options abound.
- Room service [24-hour]: Available for the midnight munchies.
(The Imperfections):
- Vegetarian Restaurant: Although options are available, I would have liked to see more.
- Coffee/Tea in restaurant: Yes, in the restaurant, not just in your room. Excellent.
Things to Do (Beyond the Spa):
- Shrine: Immerse yourself a bit in the culture.
- Meeting/banquet facilities, Indoor/Outdoor Venue for Special Events: If you're looking to host something, you're in luck.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Pick up some mementos.
Getting Around & Other Services:
- Airport transfer & Taxi service: Because who wants to navigate public transport after a 20-hour flight?
- Car park [free of charge]: Bless.
- Concierge: They can help you with pretty much anything.
- Laundry service/Dry cleaning: So you don't have to re-wear those travel clothes.
- Cash withdrawal: Super convenient.
For the Kids (and the Kid in You):
- Family/child-friendly: Which is always a plus.
- Babysitting service: If you need some alone time.
The Bottom Line & My Emotional Verdict (And You’re Welcome):
Look, the Ryugu Hotel isn’t perfect. No place is. But it's pretty damn close. The spa alone is worth the trip. If you are looking for a blend of luxury and adventure and amazing experiences, then this is your spot.
My Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars. I almost gave it a full 5, but I'm holding back 0.5 for the accessibility stuff. Hopefully, next time, they will have expanded even more on that.
Book Now! (But Seriously, Do It):
Escape to Paradise: Ryugu Hotel's Shizuoka Oasis Awaits!
Discover unparalleled relaxation and breathtaking beauty at Ryugu Hotel in Shizuoka, Japan. Offering stunning views of the volcanic landscape and a luxurious spa experience, the Ryugu Hotel is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating getaway. Indulge in world-class dining with diverse cuisine options. Experience the utmost comfort with our spacious and beautifully appointed rooms, each designed to provide you with a serene retreat. Our dedicated staff is committed to ensuring your safety and well-being, with strict hygiene protocols. Accessible to ALL.
Book your stay now and experience the magic of Shizuoka! Special offers are available with early booking discounts, so don't miss out on your chance to escape to paradise!
(SEO Keywords): Ryugu Hotel, Shizuoka, Japan, Spa, Resort, Luxury, Accessible, Swimming Pool, Restaurant, Sauna, Steam Room, Travel, Vacation, Relaxation, Mount Fuji
Escape to Paradise: Your Private Water Chalet Awaits in Port Dickson!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the swirling, chaotic beauty that is a trip to the My Hotel Ryugu in Shizuoka, Japan! This isn't your sterile, perfectly-formatted itinerary. This is… me trying to wrangle a trip into something remotely coherent. Prepare for tangents, existential dread, and the occasional existential triumph. Let's do this!
Pre-Trip Panic (Actually, Just Before We Land)
- Day 0 (or whatever the hell day it is before you actually leave)
- Morning: Pack. Panic. Realize you haven't even looked at your passport in a year. Hunt it down from under a mountain of… well, let's just say "stuff". Discover it's valid. Breathe.
- Afternoon: Attempt to translate basic Japanese phrases. End up accidentally telling a potential sushi chef that I'm "a very hungry ninja". Practice bowing. Feel intensely awkward.
- Evening: Doomscroll through travel blogs. Become convinced I'm going to get lost in a bamboo forest and eaten by a mysterious Yokai. Stock up on emergency chocolate.
- Night: Toss and turn. Dream of vending machines that dispense perfect ramen and the terrifying prospect of trying to navigate the Tokyo train system.
The Shizuoka Shuffle: Arrival & Initial Bewilderment
- Day 1: Landing & Initial Shock
- Morning (Actually, Really Early Morning - Curse you, jet lag!): Arrive at Narita International Airport. Feel a wave of "Oh. My. God. I'm actually here." The airport is a marvel of efficiency and politeness. I'm instantly impressed. Mostly.
- Transportation Hell (and Triumph): Figure out the transportation to the Shinkansen (bullet train). This, my friends, is where the real adventure begins. Successfully (and miraculously) navigate the ticket machines. Nearly miss the train because I was staring at a vending machine selling tiny, adorable plastic toys. I NEED ONE.
- Shinkansen: Speed & Zen: The bullet train! It's like a futuristic metal eagle soaring across the landscape. Admire the scenery whizzing by, and feel a little pang of sadness for the slower pace of life back home. This is where the peace really starts to sink in.
- Arrival at the Ryugu: Find the hotel. It's beautiful, with that classic Japanese charm. (The lobby is clean and smells of… well, something amazing, and the welcome is very warm and kind) Check in. Drop bags. Collapse on the bed. (Actually, what feels like a bed – it’s more like a cloud.)
- Evening: Explore the local area. Get immediately lost. Accidentally order something I can't identify. Discover it's delicious. Decide I love Japanese food (duh). Stumble upon a tiny izakaya (pub) full of laughing locals. Attempt to communicate using frantic hand gestures and a phrasebook that mostly makes me sound like a caveman. Laugh a lot, mostly at myself.
Day 2: The Fuji Mountain Obsession & the Onsen
- Morning: Plan: Visit Mount Fuji
- The Plan (and the Reality): Originally, the goal was a serene, Instagram-worthy hike up Mount Fuji. Reality, however, involved a bus, a lot of clouds, and the occasional fleeting glimpse of the mountain's majestic peak. Still, the air was crisp, the views (when visible) were breathtaking, and the experience of just being there, in the heart of the Japanese countryside, was profoundly moving.
- The Journey: Take the bus and stare out the window.
- The Mountain(ish): The mountain, the clouds, the feeling.
- Lunch: Ramen. (Because, ramen.)
- Afternoon: Onsen! (The Great Purge of Awkwardness)
- Prep: Psych myself up for the onsen. A naked bathing experience in Japan? Terrifying and exhilarating in equal measure. Read the rules. Memorize the rules. Attempt to embrace the "zen" of it all and accept the nakedness.
- The Onsen Experience: Okay, deep breath. Find the women's onsen. Disrobe (with a lot of nervous giggling). Step into the steaming, milky water. Oh. My. GOD. This is possibly the most relaxing thing I've ever done. I can feel the tension melt away. I'm surrounded by complete strangers, all completely naked, but it's not awkward. It's… peaceful. The water is the perfect temperature. I don't want to leave.
- Outcome: I emerge feeling like a new person – clean, rejuvenated, and slightly addicted to onsen life. This is the best thing ever.
Day 3: Arts, Crafts, and the Search for the Perfect Matcha
- Morning: Visit some art galleries. Explore Shizuoka's local arts and crafts scene.
- Afternoon: Green Tea Time.
- The Hunt for Matcha Perfection: Embark on a quest for the perfect matcha. Sample matcha everywhere, from cafes to convenience stores. Discover the differences between quality grades. Become a temporary matcha snob. Decide the best matcha is the one with the perfect balance of bitterness and creaminess. The search goes on.
- Evening: Dinner. Try a different restaurant, order something completely random, and hope for the best. Maybe accidentally order something spicy. Decide it was good.
Day 4: The Ryugu Experience: Serenity Now? (Maybe Not!)
- Morning:
- Sleep In: Because, finally, not a 5 AM wake-up call!
- Breakfast: Ryugu's breakfast is supposed to be amazing. It is. Try everything available. Stuff yourself silly.
- Midday:
- Explore the Hotel: Wander the hotel gardens. Admire the landscaping. Consider starting a new life as a zen gardener. Realize you don't have the patience.
- Take a look at the room and explore the space, and maybe even have another onsen.
- Afternoon:
- Reflection and Coffee: Sit in the hotel's common area. Write in a journal. Enjoy a coffee.
- Meditate: Close the window, and take time to reflect, and meditate, and quiet the mind.
- Evening:
- Farewell Dinner: A fancy dinner at the hotel restaurant. Admire the beautiful presentation of the dishes. Try to remember everything I ate. Take notes. Feel a pang of sadness that the trip is ending.
- Last Evening: Stroll around the hotel, take in the sights, and take in the moment one last time.
Day 5: Departure & the Bitter-Sweet Goodbye
- Morning: Pack. Again. Try to fit everything in my suitcase, which is now mysteriously heavier. Say a sad farewell to the hotel staff, who have been impossibly kind. Savor one last green tea.
- Travel Day: Take the bullet train back to Narita. Reflect on the amazing time. Wish I had practiced more Japanese. Imagine the next time I'll be back.
- Departure: Board the plane, exhausted but happy. Think, "I'm going to miss Japan." Watch the sunrise as the plane takes off. Begin planning next trip.
Post-Trip Ramblings
So, there you have it. A terribly disorganized, emotionally charged, and probably highly inaccurate account of my trip to the My Hotel Ryugu. It wasn't perfect. There were train delays, moments of intense awkwardness, and a whole lot of delicious food. But it was real. It was an adventure. It was… amazing. And I can't wait to go back and mess it all up again.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to dream of onsen, matcha, and the terrifying promise of Japanese vending machines.
Luxury Redefined: Escape to Hotel Sai Raja, Satara, India
OMG, Ryugu Hotel! Is it *really* as magical as Instagram makes it look? Because, let's be real, Instagram... lies.
Okay, fine. Let's start with the elephant in the room: Instagram. Yes, the Ryugu Hotel *is* gorgeous. The infinity pool overlooking the ocean at sunset? Stunning. The traditional Japanese room with the tatami mats and the ridiculously comfy futon? Dreamy. Did I spend an *entire afternoon* just staring at the light reflecting off the water and pretending I was some sort of zen master? Absolutely. But… (and *this* is where real life creeps in) that perfect infinity pool, the one everyone's obsessing over? It’s occasionally… overcrowded. Think a gaggle of selfie-stick wielding tourists, all jostling for the perfect angle. And me? I was *that* girl, ducking and dodging, muttering under my breath about proper pool etiquette. So, magical? Yes. Flawless? Not quite. But the food? The food is a whole other STORY...
Let's talk FOOD. Because, let's be honest, that's the *real* reason we travel. What's the deal?
Okay, buckle up, because I'm about to get *emotional* about the food at Ryugu. It's… phenomenal. Truly. The breakfast buffet? Forget your sad continental breakfasts. We're talking fresh fruit (the mangoes! Oh, the mangoes!), perfectly grilled fish, fluffy omelets, and even *real* Japanese pickles that don't taste like they've been aged in a swamp. I may have eaten three plates of that salmon. Don't judge. There was this tiny little crepe station where I definitely had to stop by too. And the dinner? Oh, the dinner. I opted for the multi-course Kaiseki experience, and I *sobbed* a little. Okay, maybe more than a little, mostly because I couldn't understand half of the Japanese explanations from the staff. But the flavors… layers upon layers of flavor, each dish a work of art. Tiny, beautifully arranged plates of seafood, vegetables, and a mysterious, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef that I'm pretty sure I'm still dreaming about. I tried to take pictures, but the presentation was so good, I think a tear or two may have smudged the lens. I even ate a tiny little sea cucumber. I've never been so full, and so happy, in all my life.
Okay, food *sold*. But what about the *vibe*? Is it relaxing or… super-touristy?
This is a tricky one, see? It *is* a tourist hotspot, let's not pretend. You'll see other tourists, you'll hear chattering in various languages, and you'll probably accidentally walk into a photo shoot or two. But the hotel *tries*. They really do. They’ve created these little pockets of serenity. The gardens are beautiful, the onsen (hot springs) are a dream (especially at night under the stars… pure bliss, until a loud snorer joins you, then it's a bit less blissful… Note: pack earplugs!), and the staff are genuinely lovely and helpful, even when you're butchering basic Japanese phrases (me. all the time). The vibe… it's a blend. Relaxing…with a side of "OMG, gotta get that Instagram shot!" You have to manage your own expectations. Don't go expecting complete isolation and serenity. Go expecting a beautiful place that’s popular. And if you find yourself getting overwhelmed, take a deep breath, go to the spa, or order another cocktail. It's all supposed to be relaxing, right?
The Onsen… Spill the tea! Are they awesome? Are they awkward? I need the truth!
Oh, the Onsen. Okay, fine, I'll spill. *Here's my unfiltered, super-honest onsen experience.* They're… initially awkward. Like, monumentally so. You're naked. With complete strangers. And, if you're like me, you're suddenly hyper-aware of every little thing you've ever eaten, every stray hair, every imperfection. (Side note: the ladies onsen have been slightly more comfortable than the men's onsen based on my limited knowledge). But then… you relax. You really do. The heat is incredible. The water is unbelievably smooth. You soak in the mineral-rich goodness, and you start to melt away your inhibitions. You might accidentally make eye contact with someone, offer a tentative smile, and then… you're just *there*. Naked, relaxed, and utterly content. And I met this adorable elderly woman with the most incredible silver hair who I thought was a magical sea goddess, she offered me some amazing tea. The downside? I witnessed a guy snoring so loudly, that I actually thought the hotel was falling down. Still, even with the snoring, the Onsen is 100% worth it. Just… embrace the awkward, and bring your earplugs.
Is the Ryugu Hotel good for solo travelers?
Honestly? Yes, *and* no. It depends on your personality and your expectations. There are times when you'll feel wonderfully independent and get to do whatever *you* want. You can spend hours lost in your own thoughts, wandering through the gardens, or just chilling in your room with a book. The staff are extremely accommodating and friendly, always ready to help. I actually felt a lot more confident than I thought I would. But… I'm also a naturally social person, and there were moments when I wished I had someone to share the experience with. Dinner can be a little… lonely. Especially if you're having that amazing Kaiseki dinner I ranted about earlier. It’s so good, you just wanna share it! And wandering around taking photos of yourself all day gets a little… old. There's a slight sense of FOMO when you see couples and groups having fun. So, if you're a solo traveler, be prepared to embrace the solitude, or seek out social opportunities. Maybe join a guided tour or strike up a conversation at the bar. I did. I made friends with a bartender named Kenji. He shared some amazing secrets about the local sake. Which probably explains a lot.
What should I pack? Anything I'm likely to regret NOT bringing?
Okay, LISTEN UP. This is crucial. First, and foremost: A GOOD CAMERA. You wouldn't *believe* the photographic opportunities. And pack a waterproof phone case. Beyond that? Okay, okay. Here’s my ultra-specific packing list, based on actual experience: * Comfortable walking shoes. You'll do a LOT of walking. My feet still weep. * A swimsuit. Obvious, right? But make sure it's a good one. You'll be living in the infinityLow Price Hotel Blog
