Miyajima Coral Hotel

Hotel Coral is not on Miyajima Island, but it is literally right next to the ferry to and from the island. We didn't expect much after reading some reviews complaining about how old the hotel is, but we were pleasantly surprised and loved our Double with Sea View. I was expecting a small double bed but was so happy to see it was a king size bed. I requested a high floor and received it and the panoramic view of Miyajima Island was wonderful. The room was spacious and clean with two sitting chairs and table by the window. The bathroom had all new fixtures and the soaking tub has heavenly each night. The Western bed was firm but comfortable. Hotel Coral was very generous with their complimentary amenities, the best selection of items in all the places we stayed in our 5 week trip to Japan. The amenities bar in the lobby was extensive and included items I've never seen offered for free including tea without caffeine (roobois), scented bath salts, olive oil based facial wash and moisturizer, candy, and a choice of additional types of pillows as available such as memory foam. It was also nice to have bottled water replenished daily, as well as new sets of yukata and towels. We opted for the eco cleaning and received a nice voucher to use in the restaurant or gift shop, but you can also opt for daily cleaning. The included breakfast held many choices and was replenished regularly. Housemade tofu, pillowy French toast rolls and ultra moist carrot cake were favorites. A variety of breads and croissants and more. The ferry to Miyajima is right across the street and the ease of using the ferry earlier in the morning or later in the day was key to avoiding the insane crowds that descend on the island to flock to the Itsukushima Torii gate.

Little English spoken but the Reception staff were very proficient in the use of a translator app so checking in went smoothly. Room was larger than average with a comfortable bed and good aircon. Not the most up-to-date bathroom but perfectly adequate. A good selection of Japanese and Western food was available for breakfast, taken in the ground floor cafe. You can't get much closer to the ferry terminal. There are several restaurants close to the hotel but all very busy except for an Italian. We wanted Japanese so opted for the hotel's second floor restaurant which proved a wise decision as we had an excellent meal.

- excellent location! Right across from the island; with your JR pass you can keep going to the island from sunrise to sunset. - accommodating staff; first time I see staff with genuine creativity for problem solving. - ok & generous breakfast; general menu with lots of selections but you’ll get the same menu.

The room was clean and spacious with a great ocean view. The air-conditioner worked perfectly throughout the night. The free breakfast buffet was relatively simple but delicious and filling with a variety of Japanese and western foods to choose from. The hotel is extremely close to Miyajima Port, making it convenient for those travelling from the island at night or wanting to leave for the island early in the morning.

Spacious room overlooking the bay. Next door to the ferry for Miyajima Island and two train stations within a few minutes walk.