Kabutoya Ryokan was established around 300 years ago in Hinohara, with the name of ‘Kabutoya’ arising from the similarities with which the main house resembled a samurai helmet. Even further back, the area of the ryokan was already known for its remote location, surrounded by deep green mountains, having been used by fleeing exiles during the Nanboku-cho period. It was thus an ideal location for a place such as a ryokan for people who seek a relaxing retreat.

Ever since its establishment, the ryokan has maintained such a role for both the locals and eager travelers, maintaining its Edo-era aesthetics while also including more modern amenities and facilities. Despite the war, the ryokan would continue to operate and continuously adapt to changing circumstances, offering guests an authentic glimpse into Hinohara’s heritage amidst the tranquil mountains.

Kabutoya Ryokan prides itself on its distinguishing main building, which is built in the traditional Fuji-style gassho-zukuri architectural pattern. The ryokan’s main building is constructed in such a way that maximizes the joining of wood to wood and minimizes the use of nails. The roof, thatched with special kaya grass, is 60 centimeters at its thinnest and 120 centimeters at its thickest. Its design allows the building to be warm in winter and cool in summer. Over the years, the Fuji gassho-zukuri style has become less and less common in the area due to the scarcity of the kaya grass and rethatching becoming more and more expensive. In the present, only four full gassho-zukuri houses still exist.

On the inside, the rooms of the ryokan remain very much styled in traditional Japanese fashion, but with modern features. Tatami mats, futon bedding, and shoji sliding doors are combined with multiple calligraphy works, antique sculptures, nature-style paintings, and local banners to impress visitors with their authenticity to the ryokan’s historical heritage. Certain rooms even have hearths and fireplaces for those with specific reservations that allow for indoor cooking. Modern features also present include light fixtures, LCD TVs, and toilets with hot baths and a scenic view, among other amenities.

The dining experience at Kabutoya Ryokan is an immersive encounter with the cultural and natural heritage of Hinohara. Visitors can expect kaiseki meals of staples of Japanese cuisine, such as fresh vegetables grown in the ryokan’s garden, seafood, meat, and rice. Meal options include charcoal-grilled Ishikawa wild boar, Hokkaido deer meat, Miyazaki beef and chicken, Yamame river fish, and local mountain trout.

The ryokan also has an on-site organic cafe called the Canyon Observatory Cafe, allowing guests to enjoy scenic views of the Hinohara area. The tea is organically grown and sourced from Hinohara itself, the Bio wine from France is antioxidant-free, and all soft drinks, such as cola, ginger ale, and grape and orange juice, are also organic. The cafe’s fair trade coffee comes from East Timor and Ecuador, while the beer is Japanese Kirin. Even the water is special mountain stream water from Kazuma, offered alongside special herbs. For food, the cafe offers three kinds of biscotti, a mix of fruits and nuts, and cheesecake.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Kabutoya Ryokan offers various on-site amenities for a rustic retreat. They can soak in their hot baths or hot springs, or enjoy a chiropractic massage, all designed for relaxation amidst the scenic vistas.

There are also outdoor destinations for those seeking to explore and learn more about the area. The Hinohara Village Local History Museum offers visitors a chance to understand Hinohara better, while those interested can go to the Hinohara Toy Museum. The Kobayashi Family Residence is a National Important Cultural Property where visitors can take a glimpse of how people lived in the past, with household items and tools, and an authentic Japanese garden.

Other Celebrations

For those who would be visiting in large groups, the ryokan offers meeting and multipurpose rooms for those with special occasions or events in mind.