Ryokan Motonago was first built in 1905 as a Meiji Era machiya in the typical Kyoto architecture. Eventually, it would be turned into a traditional Japanese inn and christened Motonago, which means ancient city. Much like the Kyoto of today, Motonago values the heritage of the yesteryears while ensuring it is always in line with the finest comforts and conveniences the modern world has to offer.

Design and Architecture

Ryokan Motonago values its history and heritage just as it values providing a fulfilling stay experience for its guests. Integrated in this century-old property are its oldest features, including detailed woodwork and carpentry that have withstood the decades. Supports made of local materials hold strong, keeping the property rigid and sturdy against Japan's usual natural calamities. Of particular note are the aged timbers in the guestrooms, and the ranma transoms that have been carved by master wood sculptors.

All rooms of Ryokan Motonago boast a charming and eclectic Japanese sukiya-zukuri design, featuring tatami flooring and shoji screens. There are also tokonoma alcoves that historically would've been where samurai rested their swords, but in modern times have become a display area for artworks and treasures. Fittingly, the ryokan also boasts a lovely well-tended garden, where guests can relax and contemplate.

Like most traditional ryokan, meals are served in the guestrooms, so you may want to do some practice if you're not confident with your chopstick skills. Both breakfast and dinner are served at the ryokan, though for lunch you'll have to dine elsewhere. For Motonago's signature kaiseki cuisine, they feature 10 to 13 dishes made with regional delicacies and seasonal ingredients, along with otsukuri or arranged sashimi and other seafood. Guests staying for a second night or more may choose from other dinner options such as sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and yosenabe. Breakfasts are available washoku or Japanese style, and yoshoku or Western style.

Cultural Experiences

Due to Motonago's location at the foot of Higashiyama, guests can easily visit many of the district's historic temples and shrines. Daiun-in is just around the corner; a Buddhist temple from the 16th century that has been relocated several times and modernized with each move. Kodai-ji was built during the Sengoku Era, dedicated by Lady Nene to her husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's Great Three Unifiers. Also within walking distance is Yasaka Jinja, a Shinto shrine dating back to the 7th century and host of the Gion Matsuri, one of country's largest and most prominent festivals.

Aside from religious sites, the area is also filled with culturally enriching encounters. The historic neighborhoods of Gion and Sannenzaka are lined with centuries-old machiya shophouses that also operate as establishments. There are also many nearby museums, such as Japan Kanji Museum & Library, detailing the history of Japan's writing system with hands-on displays. Another museum with experiences and dress-up opportunities is the Kyoto Samurai Ninja Museum, which features collections of samurai and ninja armors and armaments.

Other Celebrations

Treating yourself to a Kyoto trip is a fine idea that you should fulfill, but if you're planning to also celebrate during your visit, you may have to book at a local restaurant or venue. At the very least, you can request assistance or recommendations from the hosts at Ryokan Motonago. They may be able to refer local establishments that can cater to your envisioned affair.