Have you ever imagined what it’s like staying in a countryside ryokan that still feels luxurious and stylish despite its more remote location? Sumiya Kihoan definitely hits the spot.

Yoko Ono and John Lennon have already stayed in this ryokan so why not you? Sumiya Kihoan features everything you look for in a Japanese traditional inn – peace, calmness, and enjoyment. This mountainside onsen ryokan is a lovely accommodation that lets you escape the bustling city life. And with its accessible location, you don’t need to much time in transit to reach this ryokan!

Ready to know all the details about Sumiya Kihoan? Keep on reading to explore its location and unique amenities for a delightful stay.

History & Concept

Sumiya Kihoan lets you stop for a moment and appreciate your surroundings. As a traditional onsen ryokan, you feel transported to ancient Japanese times upon entering. The onsen hot springs provide a healing and soothing experience, while several rooms also feature a Japanese vibe, making you feel like a true local.

Sumiya Kihoan features unique Japanese carpentry in its exteriors and interior decor. All wall patterns are intricately made using plaster. Despite its renovation in 2006, this ryokan stays true to its authentic Japanese roots with the fabric decor and fusuma papers. Inside, you can also find different artworks made by layering gravel mud.

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Location

Despite being a mountainside accommodation, Sumiya Kihoan is easily accessible. This ryokan is close to the train station, so you can easily escape the bustling city life without traveling for a long time.

The entire train ride from Kyoto Station to Kameoka Station is only about 20 minutes. From there, the ryokan has an in-house shuttle to pick you up, and the ride should last for another 20 minutes. Don’t forget to make an advance booking for the shuttle so you can get the free ride.

Kameoka is more secluded, so expect your surroundings to be calmer and quieter. This makes it the perfect relaxing getaway when you’re used to Kyoto crowds and want to unwind and relax instead.

Nearby tourist spots are sparse, but you can visit restaurants nearby, including Caihua and Tamba Uchiichi.

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Ryokan Facilities

Sumiya Kihoan might be a traditional ryokan, but it features luxurious facilities for a worthwhile stay. For starters, rooms are equipped with all the amenities you need for a completely relaxing vacation (but more on that later). There’s also free private parking, a terrace, a zen Japanese garden, and an outdoor swimming pool.

Sumiya Kihoan’s on-site restaurant is definitely a must-try, and guests can enjoy complimentary fast Wi-Fi. You may also enjoy a relaxing dip in the hot-water massage pool. Moreover, room service is available 24/7.

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Onsen

The private onsen experience at Sumiya Kihoan makes your stay even more romantic, especially when visiting with your partner. You can find both onsen baths for women and men in the forest, which you can easily reach via a short trail from the ryokan’s main entrance. Choose between the indoor and the open-air bath.

But, if you’re willing to spend more, a few Japanese-style rooms are equipped with private onsens. These are perfect if you want alone time with your partner without dealing with other guests.

The onsen baths at Sumiya Kihoan are open daily from 3 pm to 10 am. Additionally, all guests can dip in these relaxing hot springs, including those only visiting for dinner.

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Rooms

With 25 guest rooms, you can indeed find the peace and relaxation you long for on your trip to Japan. All rooms are Japanese style and vary in the number of maximum guests allowed. As mentioned, some Japanese-style rooms have private onsen baths on the balcony. The baths overlook the forests, adding calmness to your experience.

Regardless of the room style, amenities include a television set, telephone, hot water pot, glass and teacups, minibar, and luxurious toiletries. Additionally, you may borrow a Yukata robe inside the cabinet and feel like a true Japanese local.

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Food & Cuisine

You can’t spend the night at Sumiya Kihoan without trying the Kaiseki meal from the on-site restaurant. Because this ryokan is more secluded, you won’t find any nearby cafes or restaurants. We highly suggest adding breakfast and dinner options to your stay because the meals are worth it!

Sumiya Kihoan serves an outstanding Kaiseki meal—a feast for both eyes and mouth. All dishes are visually appealing, and ingredients are locally sourced every day. You can guarantee that all seasonings and ingredients used are fresh and authentic.

You can choose whether the staff will serve your dinner in the dining area or inside your room. Try their best-selling dishes, including sushi, sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and huge tempura.

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Sumiya Kihoan is like your favorite soup after a long day of meeting deadlines and finishing up on paperwork. It’s the ultimate relaxation you need to escape the city, unwind, and destress. This country ryokan lets you step back in time and appreciate ancient Japanese architecture. With its calming onsen waters, laid-back Japanese-style rooms, and mouthwatering kaiseki meals, it’s no surprise travelers love going back to this ryokan. And we know you will, too!

Looking for more similar Japanese inns in this area of Japan? Check out recommendations of the best luxury ryokans in Kyoto!