The city of Dazaifu may no longer be the bustling Western Imperial Capital it had been during the Nara Period, but many of its glorious shrines, temples, and historic streets are still very much around. The three properties of Hotel CULTIA Dazaifu are located along these beautiful ancient byways. While not as old as the ancient temples close to it, these buildings still boast a venerable beauty travelers are sure to fall in love with.

The main building, Kokouan, was the former residence of the Yoshitsugu Family, who served as the priests of the Dazaifu Tenmangu. Arguably their most notable member is the famed sumi-e painter Yoshitsugu Haizan. Besides that, the estate was also open as a bookstore and as a restaurant for some time. Koukotei, formerly Takada Fish Shop, is located on a former renga-dori or market street where machiya were selling offerings to the shrines in the form of seafood and harvested produce. Aside from being a typical seafood shop, it also became a seafood restaurant known for its banquet halls. Due to Koukotei's success as a restaurant, they also expanded with a new building, now known as Baika. Baika is also part of Hotel CULTIA Dazaifu and is designed with many features that are hallmarks of a traditional Japanese home.

Design and Architecture

Kokouan is the oldest of the three Hotel CULTIA properties, having been built as a family estate during the Meiji Restoration. As an enclosed home, visitors can spot many distinct features that have been retained such as the soot-stained wood pillars and beams, and the carved transoms above the shoji screens. The kura storehouse that was built to store the artworks of Yoshitsugu Haizan has also been converted into lodgings, blending antique furnishings alongside modern items. As for Koukotei and Baika, Hotel CULTIA opted to preserve the original designs and spaces for these properties. Travelers can relax and sleep in authentic Japanese-style guestrooms designed in traditional sukiya-zukuri architecture. Guests staying at the first floor can admire the view of the garden from the engawa, while those on the second floor instead open their windows to gaze at the townscape and mountains.

LE UN Restaurant is the signature dining space for many of VMG HOTELS & UNIQUE VENUES's properties, and that includes Hotel CULTIA Dazaifu. You'll be taken on a culinary journey by the delectable Kansai-French gourmet cuisine and regional delicacies, each recipe crafted by Chef Shu Ishii, VMG's Grand Chef. The restaurant itself is located in the Kokouan building, making it a convenient and stylish option for foodies and gourmands looking to enjoy the flavors of Fukuoka.

Cultural Experiences

Dazaifu's proximity to Fukuoka and its history as the home of the Western Imperial Court make it a prime destination for those traveling to Kyushu on their Japan holiday. Cultural attractions are all over the town, but several are within walking distance from Hotel CULTIA Dazaifu. Dazaifu Tenmangu is the main shrine of the Tenman Shrines found all over the country. It's located right next to the hotel, so guests can visit it almost anytime they wish, though nighttime visits are quite popular. Also close by is the Kyushu National Museum, which features historical and archaeological exhibits, as well as artworks from all over Kyushu. On much more relaxing days, you can also enjoy a stroll around Dazaifu's historic streets or explore the town by hiring a rickshaw.

Other Celebrations

Should you need a venue for a small celebration, such as for an anniversary or birthday, it's worth getting in touch with the hotel management to see if they can arrange for a personalized service. The on-site LE UN Restaurant may also be able to provide a special dinner menu, so be sure to collaborate to ensure your planned special day becomes a success.