When the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi besieged the main Bessho Clan stronghold of Miki Castle in 1580 , the daimyo Bessho Nagaharu sought to spare his loyal troops from an ensuing massacre by instead committing seppuku, a form of ritualistic suicide. The defeated soldiers were scattered to the four winds, but they did not forget their lord's sacrifice. About a hundred years later, during the Genroku Period, descendants of those soldiers had ended up in Kinosaki Onsen and would open an inn named Mikiya, in honor of Nagaharu and his defiant last stand at Miki Castle. For over 350 years, Mikiya would count itself among the paragons of Japan's hospitality industry. The famed novelist Shiga Naoya would praise the inn's wonderful healing baths, delicious food, and beautiful setting that is one with nature.

The current main building of Mikiya was built in 1927, a wooden structure of three stories, which is exceptionally rare at that time. The prior building was destroyed during the North Tajima Earthquake of 1925, necessitating the construction of the new buildings. Expansions would be added in the 1940s, although the next major renovation wouldn't be until 2013, with a redesign that brings together civilization and nature all the closer.

Design and Architecture

Mikiya Ryokan wholly embraces the beauty of tradition, designing all their guestrooms in a shoin-zukuri style that emphasizes ornate yet comfortable living spaces that integrate with nature. Guests will be sitting and relaxing, as well as sleeping in these well-decorated tatami rooms. Not one to neglect the comforts of their patrons, however, the ryokan has also adapted modern conventions such as Western-inspired platform beds found in their special hybrid rooms.

Aside from the accommodations, facilities, and shared spaces, the ryokan has architecture and interior design that would very much fit the Japonesque aesthetics of the Meiji and Taisho Periods. The lobby and library lounge have a distinctly traditional atmosphere despite following Western conventions. Likewise, the hot spring baths and private baths follow modern designs, but its integration of traditional elements, such as lovely views of the garden, creates a distinct ambiance associated with traditional onsens.

The proximity of Kinosaki Onsen and Mikiya Ryokan to the Sea of Japan ensures that the bountiful seafood the region is known for always makes it to the inn. Guests can look forward to an impressive kaiseki cuisine that uses sought-after ingredients such as snow crabs, sea bream, and oysters. The region is also famed for its Tajima beef, which is counted highly among the quality Wagyu beef stock of Japan. Aside from kaiseki ryouri, the ryokan also prepares highly rated washoku breakfast sets made with dried flatfish and served with locally produced amazake. Meals are served at the ryokan's on-site restaurant, Heihachiro, located on the first floor.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Mikiya Ryokan's wondrous setting inspired many writers and painters who became repeat patrons of the inn. It's quite likely you may end up sharing their love of the ryokan, so before you travel, here recommendations for your itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Travelers can find plenty of local shrines where the mountain spirits and kami of Hyogo dwell, such as the Mishima Jinja located across the Maruyama River. There's also Onsen-ji, a Buddhist temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect located near the inn. If you'd like to learn more about Kinosaki Onsen's history, there are also museums within walking distance. The Kinosaki Onsen Heritage Museum details the history of the town before and after it became a hot spring destination. The Straw Crafts Museum is all about mugiwara straw crafts that provided a livelihood to the locals.

When it comes to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of trails available for nature walks and mountain hikes. Those looking to explore further afield can hop a ride on the Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway to get a fantastic view of the area. There's also Genbudo Park, a nature reserve consisting of incredible volcanic rock formations.

Other Celebrations

Although Mikiya Ryokan has an on-site restaurant, you should still check with the management if they'll allow private celebrations at the ryokan. At the least, they may instead be able to refer you to local establishments that can provide a venue as well as personalized service for your birthday or anniversary.