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Nestled in the verdant mountains of Kyoto, Kibune Fujiya offers a unique and immersive Japanese experience. This traditional Ryokan, or Japanese inn, is located in the quaint village of Kibune, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. With a history spanning over 100 years, Kibune Fujiya has been a haven for those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Book your stay at Kibune Fujiya and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Japan.
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A Ryokan Experience
A Ryokan is a type of traditional Japanese inn that originated in the Edo period (1603–1868), serving travelers along Japan’s highways. They typically feature tatami-matted rooms, communal baths, and other public areas where visitors may wear yukata and talk with the owner. Kibune Fujiya is a Ryori Ryokan, a special type of Ryokan known for its exquisite cuisine. Ryori Ryokans offer both day trip meals and stayover plans, providing guests with a comprehensive experience of traditional Japanese hospitality.
However, it’s important to note that Kibune Fujiya does not accept day trip meal reservations from overseas. This is to ensure the best possible experience for guests staying at the Ryokan.
The History of Kibune Fujiya
Kibune Fujiya has a rich history that dates back to the Meiji era (1868-1912). This ryokan has been serving guests for over a century, offering a unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comforts. The ryokan is located in the Kibune area of Kyoto, known for its picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
The Location: Embracing Nature’s Serenity
Kibune Fujiya is situated in the northern mountains of Kyoto, in the quaint town of Kibune. This location is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the Kibune River. The ryokan is about a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto city center, making it a perfect getaway from the bustling city life.
Accommodation
The ryokan offers a variety of rooms, each designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing stay. The rooms are traditionally decorated, featuring tatami (straw mat) floors and futon beds. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests. The rooms also offer stunning views of the surrounding nature, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere of Kibune.
Kibune Fujiya offers a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. One of the highlights is the ryokan’s hot spring baths, or “onsen.” These baths are filled with natural hot spring water, known for its healing properties. Taking a dip in the onsen is a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the surrounding area.
Dining Experience
One of the highlights of staying at Kibune Fujiya is the opportunity to indulge in traditional Japanese cuisine. The ryokan offers a variety of dining options, including a multi-course kaiseki dinner, which is a traditional Japanese meal consisting of several small, intricate dishes. The meals are prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients, offering a true taste of Japanese cuisine.
During the summer months, guests can also enjoy “kawadoko” dining, a unique experience where meals are served on platforms built over the Kibune River. This allows guests to enjoy their meals while listening to the soothing sounds of the river and feeling the cool breeze.
When winter arrives, Kibune Fujiya offers a special treat: Botan Nabe, a hot pot dish featuring wild boar. This hearty meal is a perfect way to warm up in the cold winter months. The wild boar is carefully selected and served in a shabu-shabu style, allowing guests to cook the meat to their liking in a flavorful broth. This winter delicacy is available from November 15th to March 15th, providing a unique culinary experience that you won’t want to miss.
Whether you’re dining in the summer or winter, Kibune Fujiya offers a culinary journey that showcases the best of Japanese cuisine and the local flavors of Kyoto. Here are some highlights from their menu:
- Ayuzukushi Kaiseki: This plan offers a variety of dishes featuring Ayu (sweetfish), a seasonal delicacy in Japan. The Ayuzukushi Kaiseki is available from July 1 to August 31, 2023. The meal can be enjoyed on the riverbed during good weather, and in a private room or your own room in case of rain or increased river flow. The price for this plan ranges from 33,000 to 42,900 yen per person.
- Hamo no Otoshi: This plan offers a special dish called Hamo no Otoshi, a traditional Kyoto summer dish featuring pike conger. The Hamo no Otoshi plan is available from July 1 to September 18, 2023. Similar to the Ayuzukushi Kaiseki, meals can be enjoyed on the riverbed during good weather, and in a private room or your own room in case of rain or increased river flow. The price for this plan ranges from 29,150 to 41,250 yen per person.
- Sakiraku Plan: This plan offers a discount of up to 4,000 yen per person for bookings made at least 14 days in advance. The meal includes a variety of dishes featuring local and seasonal ingredients. The price for this plan is already discounted and varies depending on the booking date.
Booking Your Stay
Ready to experience the charm of Kibune Fujiya? Unlike many accommodations that can be booked through international platforms like Booking.com or Agoda, reservations for this ryokan are exclusively available on ikyu.com, a Japanese website.
While the website does not offer English language support, this should not deter you from experiencing the charm and tranquility of Kibune Fujiya. With a little patience and the help of a translation tool, you can navigate through the reservation process with ease.
Google Chrome users can take advantage of the browser’s built-in translation feature to translate the webpage into their preferred language. For detailed instructions on how to change Chrome languages and translate webpages, you can refer to Google’s guide here.
The ryokan offers a variety of packages, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking forward to the summer kawadoko dining experience or the winter Botan Nabe, Kibune Fujiya has something special to offer in every season.
Experience the charm of traditional Japanese hospitality at Kibune Fujiya. Book your stay here today!
Local Attractions
The area surrounding Kibune Fujiya is rich in natural beauty and cultural attractions. The Kibune Shrine, a popular spot for spiritual visitors, is just a short walk away. You can also explore the Kibune River, known for its unique Kawadoko dining experience. For those who enjoy hiking, the Kurama to Kibune hike is a popular trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Practical Tips for Visitors
While the staff at Kibune Fujiya are accustomed to serving international guests, it’s important to remember that you’re visiting a place with its own unique customs and traditions. Here are a few tips to help you navigate your stay:
- Communication: While some staff may speak English, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Japanese phrases. This can enhance your interactions with the staff and make your stay more enjoyable.
- Etiquette: When entering your room or any of the ryokan’s public areas, it’s customary to remove your shoes. This is a common practice in Japan and is a sign of respect.
- Onsen Use: If you plan to use the onsen, remember that it’s customary to wash your body thoroughly before entering the bath. This is to keep the water clean for all guests.
- Meal Times: Meal times at the ryokan are typically fixed, so be sure to check the schedule and plan your day accordingly.
