Oarai Town, Ibaraki Prefecture, A magnificent view of the Torii Gate in front of the Isobe Gate. Oarai Hotel Annex Gyorai-an

#September2025

Oarai Town, Ibaraki Prefecture: Stunning View of the Isomae Torii Gate at Oarai Hotel Annex Gyoreian

Address: 6885 Isohama-cho, Oarai Town, Higashiibaraki-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture
Transportation: Kashima Rinkai Railway, Oarai Kashima Line, get off at Oarai Station and transfer to the Kaiyu-go Bus

Pros:
* The hotel is right outside the torii gate of Oarai Isomae Shrine, and rooms facing the sea can even see the torii gate on the rocks. The location is incredible.
* The bus stop is right outside the hotel, making it easy to get around.
* Parking is available (though limited, reservations may be required), and you can park your car.
* The room is spacious, and I think it should be enough for two people with two pieces of luggage. There's also a large entrance.
* The tatami mats in the Japanese-style rooms are full of Japanese charm, and the futons are quite comfortable.
* The buffet breakfast is generous, with a wide variety of delicious dishes, and I easily overeat. The restaurant faces the sea, and you can see the torii gate on the rocks. The view is impeccable.

Cons:
* Not exactly cheap (But the price is quite reasonable for this area.)
* Transportation is a bit inconvenient if you're not driving. You'll need to transfer to a JR bus, and the service is infrequent.
* There's no elevator, so you'll need to carry your luggage up the stairs. Those with heavy luggage or weak legs might want to consider this option.
* For a large hot spring bath, head to the nearby Oarai Hotel. The bathrooms in the rooms are also decent and not too small.

Overall Review:
If you're planning to stay overnight in Oarai again, Annex Gyoraian is probably the best choice (especially for the rooms with a direct view of the Isomae Torii).