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hen we think of ryokans, we tend to focus on the ways in which they’re the same — their small scale and slow rhythms, their soothing minimalist décor and painstakingly prepared meals. But how to choose between them? In Ryokan Kurashiki’s case, what most sets it apart is a location not in some tranquil middle of nowhere, but right in the heart of the historic merchant’s quarter of the city of Kurashiki. It’s the rare ryokan whose ability to transport guests back in time extends beyond its walls, helped along by the beautifully preserved 17th-century architecture of the neighborhood just beyond.

While much of the industrial port city of Kurashiki has modernized and grown in scale, the old town still looks much the way it has for centuries, with traditional black and white kura (wooden storehouses) lining the narrow streets. Amidst the eye-pleasing jumble is Ryokan Kurashiki, comprised of three converted storehouses from the 18th century. With just eight guest rooms spread across three buildings, it’s hard to feel cramped. Each room is in fact a suite with space for up to four, and the pared-down, stripped-of-distractions style makes everything feel all the roomier. The furnishings are largely traditional Japanese, with tatami mat floors, cloud-like futons and low-slung furniture, though the occasional Western-style bed pops up as well.

As ever, there’s a strong emphasis on the food. Meals, including elaborate multi-course kaiseki dinners, can be taken in the room or in the restaurant — but wherever you eat, expect a succession of delicious, beautifully composed little dishes, as pleasing to the eye as to the palate, with menus based on the best seasonal ingredients.

Please note: A limited number of parking spaces are available to guests free of charge. Please contact our Customer Service team in advance if you require a parking space during your stay. Free wi-fi is available in the Terrace Salon along with complimentary coffee and tea from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. Note that the Terrace Salon is sometimes closed for private events.

How to get there: From Okayama Airport (OKJ), it’s a 40-minute limo-bus ride followed by a connecting 10-minute taxi ride to the hotel. From the nearest train station, JR Kurashiki, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride to the ryokan. Guests staying 2 nights or more will be reimbursed by the ryokan for the cost of taxi transfers to/from Kurashiki or Chayamachi station. (Please keep your receipt in order to receive reimbursement.)

Booking Details: Ryokan Kurashiki requires additional information from guests to ensure the best stay possible. As such, reservations can only be confirmed through our customer service team. Contact us for assistance. Rates begin at JPY91000 per night.