Kikuya, a ryokan that meets all expectations for a Japanese hot spring inn.

The century-old inn, Kikuya, where Natsume Soseki once lived, is the most anticipated part of the Izu trip, and it did not disappoint! The inn is full of history and well maintained. The small town of Shuzenji, where the inn is located, is very quiet and beautiful. A stream runs through the inn, forming a landmark landscape at the entrance of the inn.

Room: Originally booked a traditional Japanese room for three people in the main building, because the main building was renovated, it was upgraded to a larger room with a private bath by the stream for free, which was a pleasant surprise.

Food: One night and two meals, dinner has seven dishes per person, some of which can be chosen from two, the amount is large, and I am full. Breakfast has Japanese and Western options. I chose Japanese rice and small dishes, which were delicious. Other free food provided: Kanto stew in the evening, ramen supper at night, self-service drinks, beer, coffee, three different kinds of Japanese fruit snacks prepared in the room, and Yakult and popsicles in the lounge outside the hot spring.

Hot spring: There are two indoor and outdoor public hot springs, and two indoor and outdoor private baths (always in use, did not wait). Every day, the positions of the men's and women's hot springs will be swapped. The yukata and basket provided in the room are also very cute.
There is a small exhibition area in the inn, which displays the history of Kikuya and the traces of literati and ink guests. The day of check-in was a family member's birthday, and the small gift from Kikuya was a handwritten blessing, which was very ceremonial.

Post by CHRISTOPHER DAVIDSON | Oct 14, 2024