Guests at Ryokan Yamamuro will be impressed by the traditional inn's adherence to maintaining its old-school charm. Established in 1893, the ryokan and the family that runs it have endured several of Japan's historic upheavals, yet Ryokan Yamamuro remains a lasting fixture in Kanazawa's central neighborhood. If anything, modern advancements have made things easier for the inn, as they can maintain their classic charm while providing service that is convenient for both the patrons and the proprietors.

Design and Architecture

While the building of Ryokan Yamamuro looks very modern on the outside, its aesthetics and decor inside are still quite in line with Japan's traditional styles. All rooms come with traditional tatami floors, along with elegant futons and a chabudai table. Even the simplest accommodation option comes with an immersive ambiance as the walls are decorated with shoji and scroll paintings. Another traditional aspect of the ryokan that shouldn't be missed is the traditional rock garden, which provides a pleasant green space with well-tended flora. Here, guests can admire the simple beauty of nature while enjoying a break before heading off to their next activity.

Since Ryokan Yamamuro is purely a ryokan meant for lodgings, they do not have an on-site restaurant nor serve food on-site. They do have a shokudo or dining hall where guests can bring their food and drinks to avoid making a mess in the guestrooms. They have a shared microwave and self-service coffee machine, as well as a shared refrigerator at the front desk. If you're looking for where to dine or buy food for takeout, you can also inquire with the hosts for their personal recommendations when it comes to trying out local delicacies.

Cultural Experiences

Tokyo and Kyoto may be the cities that steal the spotlight when it comes to foreign visitors, but Kanazawa is a place you shouldn't miss if you're all about culture and heritage. A wonderful itinerary of cultural delights awaits you if you visit, many of which are within walking distance from Ryokan Yamamuro. Starting with the big names, Kanazawa Castle Park is the former seat of the Maeda Clan, first built in 1583 and continues to be maintained by the government. Kenroku-en is also a major project of the Maeda Clan and is considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, although it wasn't opened to the public until 1871. Oyama-jinja, said to have been built by Toshiie Maeda for his wife Matsu, is the main Shinto site for Kanazawa.

There are also numerous opportunities to spend your days as a local, like shopping for delicacies at Omicho Market, or sipping some delicious tea at Higashi Chaya's old neighborhood. Kanazawa's reputation as a city of artists and craftsmen is also on full display at the many museums, such as the Kaga-Yuzen Kimono Center and the National Crafts Museum.

Other Celebrations

Although Ryokan Yamamuro does not have an on-site restaurant nor do they serve meals, they can likely assist in making arrangements with local establishments, especially if it's a special day or anniversary. They may also have personal recommendations such as romantic spots and shops that only locals may know of. Alternatively, the ryokan does have a dining hall and you could ask permission to use part of it for a small event.