Featured
The Sekitei is a refined Japanese-style luxury hotel located in Miyajimaguchi, a quiet coastal town in Hiroshima Prefecture. Just 40 minutes from Hiroshima city, this intimate two-storey retreat stands beside Japan’s Inland Sea, offering enchanting views of the sacred Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. As the main gateway to this iconic destination, Miyajimaguchi welcomes travellers from across the globe and is consistently ranked among the top three attractions by visitors on TripAdvisor.
Encircled by meticulously landscaped Japanese gardens, The Sekitei offers just 12 guest rooms, each within its own private pavilion. Interiors embrace traditional design with tatami mat flooring, separate living and dining spaces, and open areas dedicated to reading and relaxation. Every room features a private onsen bath and sweeping views, while natural materials and an open-air layout create a sense of harmony with the surrounding nature, inviting a peaceful, meditative atmosphere.
Dining at The Sekitei is an immersive cultural experience, with both breakfast and dinner served in-room in keeping with Japanese tradition. Depending on the room, dining can be enjoyed with either Western or Japanese seating arrangements. Guests can unwind at Miyahama Onsen, which offers separate male and female public baths, perfect for enjoying a glass of sake before dinner or a sweet treat afterwards. For quiet moments, two cosy salons and a well-stocked library with a log fire provide ideal spaces to relax and reflect.
Amenities
Stay The Sekitei features just twelve rooms. These are arranged in a number of independent buildings, all with wonderful garden and inland sea views. Each suite is individually designed and decorated, with traditional Japanese furnishings and comes with a separate living and dining areas with tatami (woven-straw) floors and Japanese futon bedding. Many rooms have a traditional cypress wood bath and rainforest shower, and come with garden or ocean views, and a fridge with minibar.
ChildCare Families with children are welcome to stay at the Sekitei but there are no specific facilities for children available at the ryokan.
Dine Dining in the Sekitei ryokan is a unique experience. A Japanese set-menu is offered for breakfast, which guests can choose to dine in their rooms or in the dining room. Dinner is normally served in your room in the traditional fashion. The multi-course ‘Kaiseki’ meal is where each course showcases a different cooking method, unique flavours and is beautifully presented. Lunch is usually in a local restaurant where you can try an Oyster menu – the locals favourite.
Relax Guests can relax in the Sekitei’s library lounge, which features books and comfortable chairs. Alternatively spend your day exploring the town’s souvenir shops or unwind in the public onsen. Luggage storage and a safety deposit box are available at the front desk. Massage services can be requested.
Experience Sekitei Inn is a 15-minute drive from Miyajimaguchi Terminal, where guests can take the ferry to Miyajima Island. Highlights on the island include the Great Torii ‘Itsukushima’ a Shinto Shrine, the 16th-century Buddhist five-story Pagoda and Daisho-in temple. Don’t miss the virgin forest of Mount Misen and the Fir tree forest park or take two-hour trek up the mountain. The island is also known for its deer population, considered sacred and holy in the Shinto Religion.
LOCATION
The Sekitei is nestled in the picturesque town of Yugawara, Japan, known for its natural hot springs and serene landscapes. Located on the edge of Hakone, the hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests. The tranquil setting provides a peaceful retreat, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, while still being within reach of popular attractions such as Mount Fuji and the historic town of Hakone.
GETTING THERE
From the United Kingdom, travellers can fly to Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airport. Upon arrival, they can take a direct train to Yugawara Station via the Tokaido Shinkansen, which takes approximately 90 minutes. From Yugawara Station, The Sekitei is a short taxi ride away. The hotel offers private transfer services to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, making it easy to reach this serene retreat nestled in the Japanese countryside.
WHEN TO GO
The best time to visit The Sekitei is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). In spring, the area is adorned with cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque and serene environment. Autumn offers vibrant foliage and mild weather, perfect for enjoying the outdoor hot springs and scenic views. These seasons provide ideal conditions for exploring the natural beauty of Yugawara and nearby attractions like Hakone and Mount Fuji.
Destination
Honshu, JapanDiscover sides of Asia you never knew existed, revealed by people who know every facet.
Here’s what our customers have to say about their Asian Geographical experience.