Ryokan Kurashiki was originally the mansion of a sugar merchant during the Edo Period. The honkan, or main building, consists of his main house and storefront, as well as the storehouses where he kept his merchandise. These were all converted in 1957 into what is now collectively recognized as Ryokan Kurashiki. Also integrated were separate, standalone buildings in the neighborhood, each with its own story to tell.

In addition to its beautiful historic architecture, it is also located in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. Aspects of Edo Period life have been preserved here, such as the use of ferry boats for traveling through the canals and rivers. For its exceptional qualities, Ryokan Kurashiki was added to the Michelin Guide in 2021, reminding travelers from all over that many treasures are found far from the big bustling cities.

Tatsumi is one of the oldest of Ryokan Kurashiki's properties, made from a 280-year-old storehouse that was used to keep rice. It was also used as a residence by the Tatsumi family, which is where it got its name from.

Also converted from storehouses are the Inui, Yu, and Nishi suites. They were part of the sugar merchant's 170-year-old residence and thus located closest to the main building.

The oldest accommodation in Ryokan Kurashiki's repertoire is the Kura suite, having been built 300 years ago. It used to be a tool storehouse and features a sunken kotatsu that is sure to provide relief during the colder months.

In contrast to that is the Okuzashiki suite, which was built in the 1950s. Being relatively more recent, it features a kitchen and Western-style bedroom.

The owners of Ryokan Kurashiki have been meticulous in their restoration of each of the inn's properties. Their preservation of each storehouse's traditional architecture and decision to stay faithful to Japanese interior design conventions enabled them to create a luxurious heritage stay right in the heart of a historic district.

The three old storehouses have been rebuilt and remodeled, but historical features such as the white plaster walls, black tiled roofs, and exposed wooden timbers have been carefully preserved and integrated into the overall aesthetics. Likewise, the choice of furniture and fixtures was also influenced by opting to remain true to tradition. Travelers lodging at the ryokan can enjoy dining and relaxing in authentic tatami rooms with shoji screens and antique furnishings.

Accessibility for Ryokan Kurashiki, however, is a work in progress. Japanese homes tend to maximize space, so the heritage accommodations of the ryokan aren't suited for wheelchairs. Most of the sleeping areas and bathrooms are also on the second floor, so this may be a challenge for those with limited mobility.

The dining experience offered by Ryokan Kurashiki is sure to be memorable as it is delicious. Their kaiseki cuisine is a showcase of the culinary skills and traditions of Okayama, using fresh land produce and seasonal pickings along with the bounties of the Setouchi Inland Sea. The head chef meticulously picks the ingredients while his team cooks them into a feast not just for the stomach and mouth, but also for the eyes.

Dining options are available as breakfasts, kaiseki dinners, and as a special Kurashiki Local Dining Experience program.

Reservations are required and must be made 3 days in advance. You can contact the ryokan through their phone, email, or fax.

Breakfast

Guests can start their day with a variety of colorful and flavorful side dishes, freshly baked soup stock rolls, and rice cooked in a clay pot. They can also prepare a Western breakfast upon request.

Serving hours: 7:30 am to 9 am

Lunch

Sit down for a delightful seasonal mini-kaiseki lunch for 4,500 JPY (31 USD), inclusive of tax and service charge. The meal gives you plenty of time to reenergize and savor the flavors of Okuyama.

Serving hours: 11 am to 2 pm

Dinner

The seasonal kaiseki dinner comes in set packages, available from 15,000 JPY (104 USD), 18,000 (125 USD), or 20,000 JPY (139 USD). This dinner includes incredible ingredients such as Shimotsui octopus and Okayama Wagyu beef.

Serving hours: 6 pm to 8 pm

Local Dining Experience Program

Take yourselves on a culinary journey by availing Ryokan Kurayashiki's special Local Dining Experience Program. Spanning several days, you will discover the various traditions and cuisines of the region, which has been shaped by the local farming and fishing industries.

For your first night, you will be treated to a traditional kaiseki dinner prepared by the ryokan's own team of chefs and culinarians. For subsequent days, you'll be able to choose from a curated list of reputable local restaurants in the Bikan Historical Quarter.

The ryokan's concierge can assist with making these reservations and can also provide an escort to your chosen establishment. One nice bonus to consider is that partner restaurants will also be offering exclusive experiences or services, such as sake pairings or complimentary drinks.

Cultural Experiences

The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is filled with amazing and memorable cultural experiences you shouldn't miss out on. First thing you should do is to travel like a local by hopping aboard a ferry boat, or hiring a jinrikisha. They will also act as guides while in transit, sharing a bit of local lore and tips based on their experience.

There are plenty of sights to see, even in just the district, as many of the old homes and buildings have been converted into folk museums showcasing local traditions and industries. The Kurashiki Museum of Folkcraft has exhibits of earthenware such as pots and vases, to straw crafts such as baskets and bags. They also have sections dedicated to folkcrafts from other countries, such as rugs from Iran. If you're traveling with kids, you should also bring them to Momotaro's Karakuri Museum. It's a family-friendly place with various automata based on popular folk characters, not just Momotaro.

Aside from visiting historic buildings, you can also immerse yourself in the culture of Okuyama while relaxing. Sign up for a Japanese tea ceremony session where an actual tea ceremony master will prepare and guide you through this highly regarded tradition.

The many craft shops in the historic quarter also offer hands-on experiences that you shouldn't miss out on. There's a lantern shop that offers a "Make your own lantern" class led by an artisan couple, which is especially popular during Kurashiki's Spring Light Festival. You can also sign up for a workshop on making temari, a type of toy handball made with rice husks and painted in colorful designs.

The people of Kurashiki love their festivals and will happily invite travelers from all over to share the mirth and merriment. Some of their most famous include the aforementioned Spring Lights Festival, called Haruyoi Akari, and held every March. There's also the Achi-Jinja Aki Matsuri, which takes place every 3rd weekend of October, and includes processions and parades led by the Sanjojin, three goddesses represented by shrine maidens.

You may also take the chance to celebrate a birthday or anniversary during your visit. You can book the Kamizashiki room at Ryokan Kurashiki, which is available as a small event venue. You may also ask the concierge if they can recommend one of their partner restaurants for a personalized birthday or anniversary dinner.