A Private Island Hot Spring Hotel: Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima
Perched on a private island in Wakayama Prefecture with a history of over 80 years, Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima is a private retreat that combines coastal beauty and traditional Japanese hospitality in one. From the sweeping views of Nachi-Katsuura town and the Pacific Ocean to the open-air onsen where tides provide the soundtrack, every detail here feels thoughtfully connected to its surroundings. Local meals celebrate the region and help further immerse you in one of Japan’s top seaside ryokan escapes.
The Offer
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima offers a seamless blend of modern luxury and traditional Japanese aesthetics. Each room, such as the Nagi no Sho Deluxe禁煙, boasts panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean or Nachi-Katsuura town, with minimalist wooden and traditional interiors throughout. The property itself feels like a natural sanctuary with walking paths and open-air hot spring spaces embracing the island landscape.
With numerous hot springs on the island, the outdoor kishu chomon-no-yu hot spring stands out among them all, it’s a peaceful retreat with a stunning view over the water. As is customary, service is rooted in omotenashi—Japan’s tradition of hospitality—ensuring every detail is thoughtfully considered and catered for. From the private onsen to the exquisite kaiseki dining featuring seafood from the Kuroshio Current and mountain delicacies from the Kii Peninsula, the secluded Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima offers a rare escape known about by few and experienced by even less.
Looking for more hotel inspiration? Read A New Ryokan for Japan’s Famous Art Island: Roka Naoshima
The Location
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima sits quietly on a private island, just off the coast of Nachi-Katsuura - a tranquil escape from Osaka yet only 3 hours 30 away by train. Surrounded by lush greenery and the waters of the Pacific Ocean, the island hotel is conveniently located near various cultural sites and natural attractions, including the iconic Nachi Falls and the sacred Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. While these points of interest are all within reach, seclusion is the reason people visit.
Who is it For?
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima is for those who value understated luxury and are looking for somewhere to truly escape. It’s a retreat made for individuals who seek to break from the ordinary, offering an intimate connection with nature with views across the ocean around every corner. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway or are a solo traveller looking for some peace and quiet, this private island retreat has a lot to offer.
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Sustainability
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima is committed to sustainable methods that respect and protect the natural environment that surrounds it. This practice starts with the very food they serve - everything is curated around seasonality, availability, and the locality of each ingredient. This ensures a lower carbon footprint and a softer impact on the planet. Local fisheries and farms make up much of the hotel’s supply and fresh fish is caught only on the day it’s consumed.
Important Information
How to get there
Car: Drive to Katsuura Port, approximately 3.5 hours from Osaka or 2 hours from Wakayama City. From there, a private boat transfer to the island is arranged.
Train: Take the JR Limited Express Kuroshio from Osaka (around 4 hours) or Wakayama City (around 2.5 hours) to Kii-Katsuura Station. A short walk leads to Katsuura Port for the boat transfer.
Check-in / Check-out: Check-in is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 PM.
Number of Onsen: Six natural hot springs including outdoor kishu chomon-no-yu
Pets: Pets are not permitted on the property.
Note: The last ferry to the hotel departs the pier at 22:00
Contact: Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima
〒1179-9 Katsuura, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama 649-5334, Japan
Find out more via kb-nakanoshima.jp
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