In our experience, this traditional Japanese inn offers a peaceful escape near Mount Yoshino.
You’ll sleep on tatami mats, soak in soothing baths, and savor local dishes. The beautiful gardens and friendly staff create a truly authentic atmosphere.
While the location is off the beaten path, a free shuttle makes it easy to reach from Yoshino Station.
Keep in mind that the Wi-Fi can be spotty, and some travelers might find the prices a bit steep for what’s offered.
However, if you’re seeking a genuine Japanese experience and don’t mind being away from the hustle and bustle, this place is a real gem.
This ryokan is perfect for those wanting to enjoy Japanese culture and natural beauty.
It’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway or anyone needing a quiet retreat to recharge their batteries.
Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and leave your need for constant connectivity behind!
Key Points
- Chikurinin Gunpoen is a traditional Japanese inn located in the Chikurin-in Temple garden near Mount Yoshino in Nara, Japan.
- The inn offers two room types, Standard and Deluxe, featuring tatami flooring, private toilets, and traditional Japanese yukata robes.
- Guests can enjoy indoor/outdoor public baths and private reservable baths, as well as on-site amenities like a gift shop and art gallery.
- The inn is known for its exceptional dining options that highlight the region’s culinary heritage, including multi-course meals with locally-sourced ingredients.
- Chikurinin Gunpoen has received an overall rating of 7.7/10 from 14 reviews, with high praise for its friendly staff and comfortable accommodations.
Overview and Location
Located in the traditional garden of Chikurin-in Temple, near the historical Mount Yoshino, Chikurinin Gunpoen offers an excellent lodging experience with a rating of 9.1/10 based on 14 reviews.
The ryokan is situated in Nara, Japan, at the address 639-3115 Yoshino, Yoshinoyama 2142.
It provides a serene and picturesque setting, immersing guests in the natural beauty of the area.
The ryokan’s excellent location, combined with its traditional Japanese aesthetics and amenities, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic and memorable stay in this historic region.
Accommodation Details
Chikurinin Gunpoen offers guests a choice of two Japanese-style room types – a Standard Room with 5 futon beds and a Deluxe Room, also with 5 futon beds. All rooms feature tatami flooring, private toilets, flat-screen TVs, fridges, electric kettles, and air conditioning. Guests are provided with traditional Japanese yukata robes.
| Room Features | Standard Room | Deluxe Room |
|---|---|---|
| Futon Beds | 5 | 5 |
| Tatami Floor | Yes | Yes |
| Private Toilet | Yes | Yes |
The property also offers indoor/outdoor public baths and private reservable baths at an additional cost. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, family rooms, free parking, room service, a gift shop, and an art gallery.
Amenities and Facilities
Along With the well-appointed guest rooms, Chikurinin Gunpoen offers an array of amenities and facilities to enhance the stay.
Guests can enjoy the property’s indoor/outdoor public baths and private reservable baths for an additional cost. The hotel also provides free WiFi, family rooms, free parking, room service, a gift shop, and an art gallery.
Visitors can indulge in traditional multi-course meals featuring local ingredients, with beverages available at Café Mahoroba.
To ensure a comfortable stay, the property enforces quiet hours from 22:00 to 06:00 and has a policy restricting guests with tattoos from public bathing areas.
Dining and Cuisine
At the heart of the Chikurinin Gunpoen experience lies the exceptional dining options that showcase the region’s traditional culinary heritage.
Guests are treated to multi-course meals featuring locally-sourced ingredients, prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The flavors are a harmonious blend of seasonal produce, regional specialties, and time-honored cooking techniques.
Beverages, including local sake and tea, are available at the Café Mahoroba, complementing the dining experience.
While dinner must be served by 7:30 PM, the timing allows guests to savor the meal at a leisurely pace and enjoy the serene ambiance of the historic setting.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
The reviews and ratings for Chikurinin Gunpoen paint a nuanced picture of the guest experience.
With an overall rating of 7.7/10 from 14 reviews, the standout factors are the friendly staff (9.3/10) and comfortable accommodations (8.4/10), while cleanliness (7.7/10) and value for money (6.8/10) receive more mixed feedback.
Key highlights from guests include:
- Positive comments on the traditional setting, building, and multi-course meals
- Appreciation for the unique location near Mount Yoshino
- Suggestions for improving Wi-Fi and facilities like the public baths
- Some concerns about late dinner service and restrictions on tattoos in bathing areas
Check-in and Check-out
Guests may check in at Chikurinin Gunpoen between 15:00 and 18:00, though they must inform the property of any late arrivals.
Checkout time is until 10:00.
Children of all ages are welcome, but those 3 and up are charged at the adult rate.
Pets aren’t allowed.
The ryokan enforces quiet hours from 22:00 to 06:00.
Guests with tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
A free shuttle operates from Yoshino Station during specified hours, and an alternative shuttle is available during peak seasons.
Policies and Restrictions
Chikurinin Gunpoen has several policies and restrictions in place for guests.
Check-in is between 15:00 and 18:00, and guests must inform the property of any late arrival. Check-out time is until 10:00.
The property welcomes children of all ages, but those 3 and above are charged as adults. Pets aren’t allowed.
Quiet hours are observed from 22:00 to 06:00. Plus, guests with tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
- Check-in: 15:00 – 18:00, late arrival must be informed
- Check-out: Until 10:00
- Children: All ages welcome, 3+ charged as adults
- Pets: Not allowed
- Quiet Hours: 22:00 – 06:00
- Tattoo Policy: Restrictions on public bathing areas
Transportation and Accessibility
To reach Chikurinin Gunpoen, the property provides a free shuttle service from Yoshino Station between 14:30 and 19:00. Reservations are required for this shuttle. During peak seasons, an alternative shuttle service is available.
| Service | Schedule | Reservation |
|---|---|---|
| Free Shuttle | 14:30 – 19:00 | Required |
| Alternative Shuttle | Peak Seasons | Required |
The property’s quiet hours are from 22:00 to 06:00, ensuring a peaceful stay. Guests with tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas, so it’s advisable to check the policy beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book a Private Outdoor Bath?
Yes, the ryokan offers private reservable outdoor baths for an additional cost. Guests can enjoy a relaxing soak in a tranquil, traditional setting within the property’s expansive gardens.
What Is the Dress Code for Dinner?
The dress code for dinner is casual. Guests are typically expected to wear the provided Japanese yukata robes or other comfortable attire. No formal wear is required, as the atmosphere is relaxed and focused on traditional hospitality.
Are There Any Religious Restrictions or Requirements?
The ryokan has a traditional Japanese style, so guests are expected to dress modestly and cover up tattoos when using the public bathing facilities. There are no other reported religious restrictions or requirements.
Can I Pay With a Credit Card?
Guests can pay with credit cards at Chikurinin Gunpoen. The ryokan accepts major credit cards, providing a convenient payment option for travelers during their stay. However, it’s always best to confirm the accepted payment methods prior to arrival.
Is There a Hiking Trail Near the Property?
Yes, there are several hiking trails near the property. Guests can enjoy scenic walks through the traditional gardens and explore the nearby Mount Yoshino, a popular destination for its cherry blossom viewing.
The Sum Up
Tucked away on the enchanting slopes of Mount Yoshino, this traditional ryokan offers a slice of Japanese serenity that’ll knock your socks off. We were blown away by the meticulously crafted rooms, each one a miniature masterpiece of Japanese design.
The regional cuisine? Let’s just say our taste buds are still doing a happy dance. From the moment we stepped through the door, we felt transported to a world where time seems to stand still, and every detail is infused with centuries of tradition.
If you’re yearning for a peaceful retreat or want to dive headfirst into Japan’s rich cultural heritage, look no further. This place is the real deal, folks.
Ready to experience this gem for yourself? Hit that button below to book through Booking.com. It’s our go-to for reservations (always free!) and usually snags us some pretty sweet deals. Happy travels!