Resort Olivean Shodoshima

Perched on an elevated location, this hotel is celebrated for its stunning sunset views over the Seto Inland Sea, offering a truly memorable backdrop for guests. Its expansive grounds, featuring strawberry and mandarin orange gardens, provide delightful walking paths. Guests consistently praise the delicious buffet dining, particularly the Olive Beef and diverse local produce, alongside the attentive and friendly staff. The hotel is an excellent choice for families seeking spacious accommodations and various activities, couples desiring a romantic getaway with picturesque views, and pet owners who appreciate the dedicated pet-friendly facilities. To maximize your experience, consider requesting a sea-facing room for the best sunset views and be aware that some outdoor activities may be seasonal.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a large hot spring bath, often described as spacious and clean, with an open-air bath that many guests enjoy, especially in the morning. While some guests noted issues with the shower temperature in the hot spring area or the sauna being too cool, the overall bathing experience is highly regarded. A swimming pool is available and popular with children, though it operates seasonally and primarily on weekends. For pet owners, a dedicated dog run is provided. Other recreational options include a small arcade and ping-pong tables. Guests can also rent cars from the hotel, which are described as older but functional, offering convenient island exploration. The lobby features a cozy fireplace and a free coffee and cocoa machine, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Some guests found the elevator doors to close a bit too quickly.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with many highlighting their spaciousness, especially the executive and suite rooms. These renovated rooms offer a luxurious experience with large showers, soaking tubs, and private outdoor terraces providing excellent views. However, some older rooms are noted to be dated, with a few guests reporting thin futons or high pillows, and isolated issues with bathroom drainage or a chlorine smell. While most rooms are quiet, some guests experienced noise from adjacent rooms. Pet-friendly rooms are well-equipped with large cages, food bowls, and lint rollers, ensuring comfort for furry companions. Overall, the hotel strives to provide a comfortable and clean environment, with newer accommodations offering a significantly enhanced experience.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's buffet receives widespread acclaim for its variety and the quality of its local ingredients, particularly the Olive Beef steak, which is often highlighted as a must-try. Guests appreciate the inclusion of seasonal items, such as strawberry fair dishes and fresh melon at breakfast. The buffet also features local specialties like somen noodles, tempura, and a unique soy sauce and olive oil tasting experience. While most guests praise the buffet, some found the quality inconsistent or noted that warm dishes were not always served hot. For a more upscale experience, the French course is highly recommended, prepared by a former renowned chef using local produce. Lunch options are also available, offering generous portions and accommodating dietary needs like allergies for children.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a central location on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and stunning sunsets. While it is somewhat removed from the main town, requiring a car or shuttle service for access, this provides a tranquil and resort-like atmosphere. The expansive grounds include strawberry farms and walking paths, allowing guests to enjoy the immediate surroundings. For those looking to explore further, popular attractions like Kankakei Gorge, Angel Road, and the Tonosho area are easily accessible by car, typically within a 15-minute drive. Parking is convenient, with some areas allowing guests to park close to their rooms, particularly for pet-friendly accommodations.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently commend the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to assist with various requests, including taking photos and accommodating specific needs like food allergies. The pet-friendly service is particularly appreciated, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay for both guests and their animal companions. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few isolated comments mentioned a lack of follow-up after reporting minor room issues. Overall, the hotel's team is dedicated to providing a professional and welcoming experience, contributing significantly to guest satisfaction.

Additional Information
The hotel offers a generous pet-friendly policy, allowing pets to stay for free in dedicated rooms that come equipped with large cages and food bowls. Guests have the option to receive a coupon for use within the hotel if they choose to decline daily room cleaning, a thoughtful initiative. It is important to note that some seasonal activities, such as the swimming pool, mini golf, and tennis courts, may not be available during off-peak seasons or on weekdays. The hotel also features a vintage bonnet bus on display, adding a unique charm. Some guests have observed that beds in certain rooms are oriented with a north-facing direction.