What a great ryokan experience! Definitely a highlight of our trip. This was our introduction to an onsen and it was perfect. The meals are a must! The food is so fresh and delicious. The staff are so friendly and helpful. We would definitely recommend the Grand Hotel Arimoto and would come again.
If you are planning on spending a night in Miyajima, this hotel was fantastic. The staff is amazing, they pick you up and drop you off to the ferry terminal, even though it is a 6/7 minute walk. There is a small japanese garden and a public bath.
The island itself is magical, small and cute. The restaurants close early and some open until 8:30, but it might be a good idea to find same day reservations once you find where you want to eat. The hotel offers a room with food/restaurant service that you can purchase when booking.
We stayed in the room with the open air bath and it was a beautiful room. The open air bath was worth it with a view of the famous gate. The staff was amazing and so respectful. The location was close to the shrine and shops and not far from the rope pull to go to top of mountain. Highly recommend this hotel!