Ushima Hotel

Japan's Hidden Hot Spring Island Gem｜Breathtaking Beauty at Ushima Hotel|||Visited during China's Labor Day holiday, which coincided with Japan's Golden Week, so it was extremely crowded. With over 70 years of history, Ushima Hotel was originally much larger but was downsized for earthquake safety while preserving its iconic cave hot springs. (The hotel exhibits historical records.) The entire property exudes Showa-era charm, offering vintage leisure activities instead of modern luxuries like spas or gyms. It's a comforting, massive space—I stayed two nights and still didn't have enough time to explore everything. **Stay Experience:** I booked the Sunrise Wing, where dawn views over cliffs and waves greeted me each morning. Staff prepared futons nightly. While facilities show age, they're impeccably clean—a top-tier resort for its time. Even witnessed a Japanese corporate retreat! **Dining:** Not Michelin-level, but given the island's limited options (unless you ferry to town), their half-board meals were satisfyingly varied—though menus repeated nightly during my stay. Pro tip: Reserve early to secure ocean-view dining; walk-ins get relegated to late slots. **Onsen Highlights:** The star attractions are the two cave baths (one large, one small). Daytime soaks offer sea vistas, while nights bring crashing waves and salty breezes. Quirky touches include a "leek bath" with actual green onions floating in it! Collect stamps from three different baths to redeem a gift (I got bath salts). **Extras:** Arrive early to beat check-in crowds and maximize time exploring this sprawling resort. Retro arcades, ping-pong, fishing, chess, a convenience store, and sports massage stations (geared toward hikers) fill the grounds. Night markets, holiday fireworks, and petting zoos added festive flair—just touring the property could take days! The hillside trails looked inviting, but I ran out of time. Spent half a day in the nearby nostalgic town too—its old-school pastry shops and student-friendly snack stalls are wallet-friendly delights.