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Iwaso
Hiroshima and Miyajima

Iwaso is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Luxury Ryokans.

Nestled in the serene Miyajima shrine area, Iwaso Ryokan offers an exceptional experience, especially when the crowds have dispersed and the stone lanterns light up the evening. While the shrine area can get busy during the day, staying at Iwaso allows guests to enjoy the quiet, peaceful atmosphere of Miyajima after nightfall, offering an intimate glimpse of the island’s beauty.

Historic Charm and Traditional Elegance

As the first accommodation to open on Miyajima at the end of the 19th century, Iwaso Ryokan holds a rich history. Located closest to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, this traditional inn offers a blend of the old and new, with the original charming wooden building still standing strong alongside a newly added building and romantic cottages.

Whether you're wandering through the tranquil grounds in a yukata (Japanese evening gown), or relaxing at the nearby hot spring baths, Iwaso Ryokan provides an authentic Japanese ryokan experience that transports you into a world of calm and natural beauty.

Authentic Kaiseki Dining in Privacy

One of the highlights of staying at Iwaso Ryokan is the traditional kaiseki dinner, a multi-course feast that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients and local specialties. Guests can enjoy their dinner in the privacy of their rooms, often with a beautifully decorated folding screen as the backdrop. The dinner experience is both intimate and elegant, giving visitors a true taste of Japanese hospitality.

After a satisfying meal, thick futons are laid out on the tatami mats, offering a surprisingly comfortable sleep, adding to the overall tranquility and authenticity of the stay.

Unmatched Service and Tranquil Setting

Having visited many traditional inns, at Ampersand we consider Iwaso Ryokan to be among the top three for its authentic experience and impeccable service. The peaceful setting, coupled with the proximity to Itsukushima Shrine, makes Iwaso a top choice for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Miyajima.

Why Choose Iwaso Ryokan in Miyajima?

Proximity to Itsukushima Shrine: Enjoy the shrine area before or after the crowds.
Traditional Japanese ryokan experience: A serene retreat with hot springs, kaiseki dining, and tatami-floored rooms.
Historic charm: Iwaso is the island’s first accommodation, offering a blend of history and modern comfort.
Impeccable service: Ranked in the top three for authenticity and service by travelers.

With its stunning location, timeless charm, and outstanding service, Iwaso Ryokan is the ideal choice for travellers looking to experience the tranquil side of Miyajima in comfort and style.

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Client Testimonials

We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India

Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka

Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines

Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India

I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka

I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India

We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma

Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India

We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket

I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India

Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India

Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India

Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India

Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India

Iwaso Hiroshima and Miyajima

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Iwaso
Hiroshima and Miyajima