Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Country Spa & Wellness Retreat

Disgusting

Liked: It’s a nice hotel ,Japanese style ,and comfortable .with disgusting manager
Disliked: I am writing to formally express my deep disappointment and distress regarding an extremely unpleasant and unacceptable experience during my recent stay at Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Wellness Retreat & Bathhouse.On the night of our check-in, we were shocked to be approached by police officers responding to a report of domestic violence and noise disturbance. We were completely unaware of any issue and found the situation both confusing and upsetting.The following morning, at approximately 10:30 AM, a staff member used a key to enter our room without knocking or any prior notice. This was an alarming invasion of our privacy. While we were still trying to comprehend what had happened the night before, around 11:00 AM as we were packing to check out, the manager—a white woman—began furiously banging on our door. She shouted aggressively, "I AM THE MANAGER, OPEN THE DOOR NOWWWW!" Once I opened the door, she proceeded to treat us in an extremely disrespectful and dehumanizing manner, yelling at us repeatedly to "report to the front desk now!"We were just waking up and trying to understand the situation, yet we were treated with hostility and contempt, as if we were criminals. The behavior we experienced was deeply humiliating and shocking, especially in what is advertised as a peaceful, wellness-focused environment.While we acknowledge that perhaps the room’s soundproofing is not optimal, or our voices may have been louder than intended, the aggressive and unprofessional reaction from the management was wholly disproportionate. Instead of addressing the situation calmly and respectfully, we were yelled at, intimidated, and ultimately rushed out of the property by manager who showed no interest in listening to our side of the story.Despite the otherwise beautiful setting and facilities, this encounter left us with an overwhelmingly negative impression.

Superb

Liked: I love the serenity of the place. From the moment you walk in, you feel instantly more at peace. The room is extremely calming and inviting. The bed was very comfortable and I loved opening the doors to the little rock garden. The noise from the wildlife outside really made it feel like a getaway.
Disliked: Can't really think of anything.

Exceptional

Liked: The overall look and feel is perfect, also horse and kookaburra after breakfast at the balcony
Disliked: There is a little noise when people walk in the courtyard

Shizuka Ryokan

Liked: Lovely staff, spacious rooms, authentic Japanese feel. Delicious meals
Disliked: Nothing in particular, although I am looking forward to staying again once the onsen is built

Superb

Liked: The authentic nature of the hotel, the staff and the decor
Disliked: Nil

Superb

Great stay

Liked: A great weekend trip and great location The stay was great and definitely recommend their breakfast
Disliked: Restaurant was closed on Sunday night

Authentic Japanese experience complete with...

Liked: Shizuka is a thoughtfully presented and authentic experience of a Japanese ryokan, but located in beautiful Hepburn Springs.
Disliked: No complaints

A perfect Japanese getaway

Liked: As authentic as it can get if you're after a genuine Japanese experience in Australia. Lovely Japanese staff that showed true omotenashi hospitality. Rooms come with an ofuro bath overlooking your own private Japanese garden - what a bliss!
Disliked: The extras seem to be overpriced (e.g. the bathing experience). Also, it got quite dark after 8pm and it was difficult to find the way back to the room after the bathing. It would be nice if someone could accompany the guests back.