Ryokan Matsushima describes itself as having been founded in 1874, during the Meiji era, providing accommodations to visitors continuously for more than a hundred and fifty years. Its location between Maitanomori Park and Makitaiseyama Park has helped over the years in making sure that the ryokan is not lacking in natural ambience and nearby scenic locations, while also ensuring that it is relatively calm and quiet for those who wish to relax. It is also a good example of Meiji era aesthetics, with the overall property being largely similar over the years, with changes being more focused on upgrading internal comforts.

The ryokan neatly embodies at the first glance of its exterior modern building designs accented with some traditional Japanese elements such as signages and gardening. The interior, on the other hand, far better exhibits blending, with rooms more aligned with Japanese aesthetics such as tatami flooring and shoji screens along with more modern conveniences such as air conditioning and telephones, and even balconies in some rooms.

Communal bathing spaces also combine both modern showers and hot baths in the same place. The dining area is well-suited for eating in groups and follows Western-style seating arrangements. There is also a Japanese-style garden with a koi pond within the premises, and despite its urban setting, green spaces can be found all around the ryokan. The overall design allows guests to better acquaint themselves to both traditional and modern influences, while ensuring the comfort and enjoyment of their stay.

Dining at ryokan is a celebration of fresh, local flavors, particularly the bounty of the sea. Expect exquisite seafood dishes featuring freshly caught fish, shrimp, seaweed, and other regional delicacies. Meals are often presented in a traditional multi-course style, showcasing seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. Guests can savor the authentic tastes of Yokohama Prefecture in a comfortable and authentic setting within the ryokan. Meal plans are also flexible, with visitors being able to choose if they want to only have breakfast or dinner, both, or neither.

Breakfast

Breakfast includes a selection of Japanese staples like grilled fish, rice, ramen, tempura soba, among others.

Dinner

Dinner at the ryokan usually means kaiseki dishes, delectable servings of vegetables, sashimi, tempura, meat, fishes, pickles, that may be fried, boiled, grilled, or even steamed.

The dining experience emphasizes not only the taste but also the presentation, with attention paid to the visual appeal of each dish. Meals are served in the communal dining hall or be brought to visitor’s rooms, where the on-site restaurant and its chef carefully prepare each dish to be served.

Visitors and their families at the Ryokan Matsushima would have many opportunities to spend and enjoy their time at the property. The indoor bath is of a more modern type, but it can at least accommodate 7 to 8 people, and there is also a hot spring bath for those who would wish to experience such while in the city. Groups, in particular, have ample room in the ryokan to have meetings or meals together, whether in conventional or traditional Japanese rooms or halls. A gift shop is also available for those who have enjoyed their stay and wish to bring souvenirs with them from the ryokan.