For travellers seeking an authentic and immersive Japanese experience, a stay at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, is a must.
Nestled in the picturesque Kaga Onsen region of Ishikawa Prefecture, Kagari Kisshotei offers the perfect blend of tranquillity, luxury, and deep cultural heritage. From soaking in natural hot springs to savouring exquisite kaiseki cuisine, a night at this ryokan is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japanese hospitality.
Arriving at Kagari Kisshotei
As you step into Kagari Kisshotei, the warm scent of tatami mats fills the air, and a kimono-clad host greets you with a polite bow. The atmosphere is serene, a world away from Japan’s bustling cities. The ryokan overlooks the stunning Kakusenkei Gorge, with breathtaking views of lush forests and the murmuring river below.
After removing your shoes at the entrance, a customary practice in Japan, you’re led to your room, where tradition meets comfort. The room features elegant shoji (paper sliding doors), a futon bed on a tatami mat floor, and a low wooden table with a welcoming cup of matcha tea and wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets.
The onsen experience
One of the highlights of staying at Kagari Kisshotei is the onsen, or hot spring, experience. Kaga Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring regions, known for its mineral-rich waters that have been soothing visitors for centuries.
The ryokan offers both indoor and open-air baths, with steaming pools overlooking the scenic natural surroundings. The experience of soaking in the warm, healing waters while breathing in the crisp mountain air is nothing short of magical.
For those new to onsen etiquette, there are a few customs to follow: washing thoroughly before entering the bath, soaking in silence to maintain the peaceful atmosphere, and avoiding swimwear, as bathing is done completely nude, as per tradition.
A feast for the senses
Dinner at Kagari Kisshotei is an experience in itself. Guests are treated to a kaiseki meal, a multi-course feast showcasing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The dishes are beautifully plated, resembling edible works of art. Expect delicate sashimi, flavourful grilled fish, tender wagyu beef, and comforting miso soup, all served with meticulous attention to detail.
The meal is paired with sake from Ishikawa’s renowned breweries, enhancing the flavours and providing a true taste of the region. For those wanting to delve deeper into Japanese cuisine, the ryokan also offers private dining rooms for a more intimate experience.
Embracing the slow pace of ryokan life
A stay at Kagari Kisshotei is about more than just luxury—it’s about slowing down and embracing the essence of Japanese culture. After dinner, guests often change into yukata, a light cotton kimono, and unwind in the lounge with a cup of genmaicha, roasted rice tea.
For an added cultural experience, visitors can participate in a tea ceremony, try their hand at traditional crafts, or take a stroll along the Kakusenkei Gorge walking path, just a short distance from the ryokan.
The perfect retreat in Ishikawa
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Japan or a seasoned traveller, a stay at Kagari Kisshotei offers an enriching glimpse into the country’s deep-rooted traditions. From the soothing hot springs to the impeccable hospitality, this ryokan encapsulates everything that makes Japanese culture so unique.
