Ryokan Sumiya Kihoan すみや亀峰菴（すみやきほうあん）

Review for Ryokan Sumiya Kihoan
Overview:
Ryokan Sumiya Kihoan is a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) located in the picturesque countryside of Kameoka, Kyoto. Known for its serene setting, exceptional hospitality, and authentic Japanese experience, this ryokan offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Accommodation:

Rooms: The rooms at Sumiya Kihoan are spacious, elegantly designed, and offer a blend of traditional and modern amenities. Each room features tatami mats, sliding shoji doors, and futon beds. The attention to detail in the decor, such as traditional calligraphy and flower arrangements, enhances the authentic experience.
Private Onsen: Some rooms come with private onsen (hot spring) baths, offering a luxurious and intimate bathing experience with views of the surrounding nature.
Facilities:

Public Onsen: The ryokan features beautiful public onsen baths, both indoor and outdoor, with views of the lush gardens and mountains. The baths are clean, well-maintained, and provide a relaxing atmosphere.
Dining: Sumiya Kihoan is renowned for its kaiseki (multi-course) meals. The cuisine is a highlight, featuring seasonal ingredients and local specialties, meticulously prepared and presented. Breakfast and dinner are typically included in the stay and are served in a private dining room or in-room, adding to the intimate experience.
Tea Ceremony Room: There is a dedicated room for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, where guests can participate and learn about this cultural practice.
Garden: The ryokan has beautifully landscaped gardens that provide a tranquil setting for a stroll or relaxation. The seasonal changes in the garden, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn leaves, enhance the overall experience.
Service:

Hospitality: The staff at Sumiya Kihoan are exceptionally hospitable, embodying the spirit of omotenashi (Japanese hospitality). They are attentive, courteous, and eager to ensure that every guest's stay is memorable.
Language: While the primary language is Japanese, many staff members have basic English skills, and there are English-language materials available to assist international guests.
Location:

Setting: The ryokan is situated in a peaceful area surrounded by nature, providing a perfect escape from urban life. The location is ideal for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
Access: It is accessible via a short train ride from Kyoto, followed by a taxi or shuttle service provided by the ryokan. The journey is part of the charm, offering scenic views of the Japanese countryside.
Activities:

Cultural Experiences: Guests can engage in various cultural activities, such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and traditional Japanese music performances.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking, exploring local temples and shrines, and experiencing the natural beauty of Kameoka.
Pros:

Authentic Japanese experience with traditional accommodations and cultural activities.
Exceptional kaiseki dining with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Serene location with beautiful natural surroundings.
High level of hospitality and personalized service.
Relaxing onsen facilities, including private baths in some rooms.
Cons:

The remote location might be less convenient for those looking to explore Kyoto city extensively.
Limited English proficiency among staff, although basic communication is possible and part of the charm of an authentic experience.
Higher cost compared to typical accommodations, but reflective of the luxury and comprehensive experience offered.
Conclusion:

Ryokan Sumiya Kihoan offers an unparalleled experience of traditional Japanese hospitality and culture. From its serene setting and exquisite cuisine to its relaxing onsen and attentive service, this ryokan provides a perfect retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of Japan. Whether you are seeking relaxation or a deeper cultural experience, Sumiya Kihoan delivers a memorable and enriching stay.

Highly recommend anyone looking for an amazing ryokan experience to book at Sumiya. My only regret is that I wasn’t able to stay longer. It such a beautiful place with a great ambience, family friendly but I can also see it being a romantic experience if you’re traveling with your significant other. The staff is also top notch, friendly and accommodating. Can’t thank them enough for all they did for our group.

Wonderful 一泊二食 to have during the peak season of Kyoto. Welcomed by the shuttle bus right at the gate of Kameoka Station, the tranquile vibe brought me out of the crowd. Had amazing wagyu sukiyaki dinner, the Kyoto seasonal style breakfast opened another day. Stayed at the Japanese style Montain Terrace room, sufficient for couple lodging. Had the view of deers while enjoying the open-air onsen, the private outdoor onsen is also worth experiencing.

Wonderful experience, with Kaiseki dinner and traditional breakfast.

We had the rooms with private open air Onsen. Really enjoyed the Onsen experience. Recommend checking in early to make most of the Onsen as dinner takes 2 hours.

FYI tabi socks are provided by the Ryokan.
Rooms also have mosquito repellent sprays in the closet as you would expect when surrounded by trees and water.

Instructions on how to enjoy Onsen on the table with the safety instructions (with English).

Exceptional service with English speaking staff and portable translation tools.

Local Trains to nearest JR Kameoka Station and free shuttle bus available provided by Ryokan.

During my visit to Kyoto, I had the pleasure of enjoying a day trip lunch at the Ryokan Sumiya Kihoan in Kameoka. This experience was not just a meal; it was a journey into the heart of Japanese hospitality and culinary excellence. Nestled amidst serene landscapes, Sumiya Kihoan offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in tranquility and beauty. The ryokan itself is a testament to traditional Japanese architecture, with its elegant designs and thoughtful spaces that invite contemplation and relaxation.

The lunch at Sumiya Kihoan was an exquisite showcase of Japanese cuisine, prepared with meticulous care and attention to detail. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavors that spoke of the freshness and quality of the ingredients used. The seasonal menu ensured that we were treated to the best tastes the season had to offer, crafted by chefs who clearly possess a deep respect for their culinary heritage.

But what truly set this experience apart was the unparalleled level of service. The staff at Sumiya Kihoan were the epitome of Japanese hospitality, embodying the principle of "omotenashi." They anticipated our needs without being intrusive, ensuring our comfort and satisfaction with a warmth and sincerity that was genuinely touching. Their attention to detail and the care they put into every aspect of our visit made us feel welcomed and valued.

Adding to the appeal of Sumiya Kihoan was its stunning surroundings. The view from the dining area, overlooking lush gardens and the peaceful countryside, provided a breathtaking backdrop to our meal. It was a reminder of the beauty that lies in simplicity and the natural world.

Moreover, the convenience of the shuttle bus service offered by the ryokan was the icing on the cake. It made the journey to and from this secluded haven hassle-free, allowing us to enjoy our day trip without worrying about transportation.

In summary, dining at Ryokan Sumiya Kihoan was a highlight of my trip to Kyoto. It was not merely a meal, but a memorable experience that captured the essence of Japan's rich culture, culinary excellence, and the unrivaled hospitality that makes a visit to this country so special. I left with not just a full stomach, but a full heart, deeply impressed by the care, beauty, and tradition that Sumiya Kihoan represents.

My stay at the ryokan was nothing short of magical. The authentic charm of the traditional tatami rooms and sliding paper doors transported me to a serene world of tranquility. The meticulous hospitality of the staff surpassed expectations, creating an atmosphere of genuine warmth. Each kaiseki meal was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the freshest ingredients and intricate flavors. The private onsen with its breathtaking view was a therapeutic haven, completing the perfect retreat. This ryokan is a true gem, offering an unforgettable blend of luxury, tradition, and impeccable service.

One of our favorite places to stay in Kyoto! The Hot springs and dining was amazing and the staff was super kind to us. Lovely experience.

My husband and I stayed one night here in early April 2023 and it was the highlight of our trip. It’s very conveniently located if you’re coming from Kyoto, particularly Arashiyama. The service was outstanding, from booking the shuttle bus via email to the front desk staff and the restaurant service. We reserved the private onsen and splurged on a room with an onsen. Both were amazing. I also visited the women’s public onsen which was equally relaxing and just as beautiful as the reserved onsen. Dinner and breakfast were both delicious and our waitress spoke English and was able to teach us about what we were eating. This stay was exactly what we needed in the middle of our two week trip. I can’t remember the last time I felt so relaxed. I would absolutely go back and recommend this place to friends and family.

This stay ruined the rest of my hotels in Japan. The service, quality, and comfort was unmatched! I felt so taken care of and was surrounded by such a peaceful environment. Can't rate it highly enough.

Beautiful spa, around a 30 minute train ride for Osaka station.

Once you arrive at the nearest station, you can prebook a car that will meet you at the station to take you to the spa.

I booked the 45 minute private Onsen with a special lunch set menu, I asked them for a vegetarian option, and they delivered! It was around 6 courses and they kept bringing one delicious thing after another, I was stuffed but the food wasn’t heavy!

After that, they give you a basket, and a timer and give you english instructions on how to get to the Onsen from the spa.

I followed the instruction, and I had a little Onsen to myself, and it was such a beautiful experience, something that I really cherished on my trip to Japan.

I would definitely make a trip here if you want to spoil yourself. I was thinking I should have bought a face mask with me for the experience, to find out the gift shop sells all that kind of stuff to take back with you!

Great stay! Everything in this ryokan was thoughtful and neat. Great hospitality. We are very satisfied with the stay and would love to come back again.

If you want to spend a weekend in an Onsen, this Ryokan near Kyoto is a fantastic choice. First of all, the cuisine is extraordinary. Chef Kunihiko Hosoi composed two completely different Kaiseki courses for the two evenings I was there. In addition, the restaurant has a very good selection of Austrian wines. The white wines I had (Knoll, Tinhof) perfectly harmonised with the Japanese dishes. A great innovation! The second highlight was the openair bath (Rotenburo) beautifully integrated into the landscape. The surroundings are not famous for spectacular views, but if you like a stroll in the woods, you can start directly from the Ryokan. The public rooms show interesting art works, the private rooms are comfortable. Shuttle service from Kameoka station and probably also other locations. Recommended!

First Japanese hot spring experience ever and it was awesome. Clean, very organized, staff was very professional and friendly. The shuttle picked us up from the training station on time. Once we got there our assigned hostess was waiting outside the front gate to greet us. They explained how everything worked and off we went to enjoy ourselves. I highly recommend booking the outdoor private bath. It's perfect for us westerners who are shy about public nudity. The food and drinks were beyond expectation.

Truly a hidden gem and well worth spending a night or two. Don't be put off by the fact that it's in the middle of nowhere and the abrupt and not particularly attractive exterior -- once you enter, you're transported into a peaceful oasis. Rooms with attached personal semi-outdoor baths are highly recommended. We traveled at the end of March, and the warm baths were an excellent juxtaposition to crisp, cool air outside. You can book a shuttle bus in advance with them to be picked up from the JR Kameoka station. Impeccable service and truly delicious food, both for dinner and for breakfast.

Unique experience. Very friendly and helpful staff. They have limited shuttle services in the afternoon from Kameoka station which is around 20 minutes driving distance. Make sure to call in advance and let them know your choice of station pickup.
The food is unique Kyoto style but a little expensive.
It's a peaceful setup little away from Kyoto. They have a library in a setting surrounded by trees and greenery. The rooms are big and gives the first timers a unique Ryokan experience. Overall a very good experience.

Visited Sumiya Kihoan alone in Oct 2019 for the day trip lunch and private open air onsen and it was an unforgettable experience and i told myself that i am definitely going back again to stay for a night. On 22 Nov 2022, when Japan finally reopens to the world, I visited Sumiya Kihoan again with my uncle and grandmother and stayed for 1 night and also let my family tried the private outdoor open air onsen. Everything was perfect. From the time I booked the accommodation to the communication via Gmail that was very helpful and clear, shuttle bus was timely and professional, the tatami room with private hot spring was so comfortable and awesome. Everything was prepared well and seamless. The kiseki meal was very filling and delicious we ate a lot of fish this time. I especially love their white grape juice ! The staff were all friendly and helpful ! Although we cannot speak Japanese at all they were all helpful and friendly to meet all our needs. Great job for them as Japan just reopen and I think they did not expect many non Japanese speaker to visit yet. And I am so grateful for them for arranging the shuttle bus from their hotspring to kameoka torroko Station! I thought they will drive us to Jr Kameoka Station ! It was raining too, without them bringing us directly to torroko station, we will be drenched ! Thank you so much 🙏 the stay was relaxing and rejuvenating ! I will definitely go back again if I visit Japan. Highly recommended. Arigato Sumiya Kihoan my family is very happy!

We had a top-notch experience at this onsen. The private hot spring can be accessed in 45 minute chunks. The private rooms with an outdoor terrace are very nice and use hot spring water. The sukiyaki course was hands down the best sukiyaki I've ever eaten, with tons of interesting appetizers and other course items. Highly recommended.

We came for the lunch and private bath day trip, and loved it! The lunch was a six-course meal with tea, veggies, soup, sashimi, and more. The private bath was extremely hot, but refreshing in the August humidity. The staff spoke great English and were friendly and accommodating. Definitely a good way to get out of Kyoto City for a few hours!

Don't let the three star hotel rating fool you! This is a wonderful ryokan with some of the most excellent Kyoto-style dinners and breakfasts we've ever had. The service is absolutely impeccable, everything arranged to minute details. The rooms are Japanese style (ie., sleeping on the ground on a thin mattress), though Western style rooms are available too. Even Western breakfasts are selectable though I've never tried those personally.
Then the hot springs... an absolute must try when in Japan! Free to use when staying here and open 23 hours a day. Also highly recommended, especially when travelling as a couple, is the private onsen; a secluded hot spring, looking heavenly, two baths one hot and the other hotter, plus an area for changing clothes and another for resting in chairs. At night time, wonderfully illuminated by candlelight, while in case of rain a successful onsen visit is guaranteed by a bamboo parasol! Some rooms additionally have a private bath on an outdoor patio.
Open all seasons, though personally we've only stayed during winter's, so far. The area around here is wonderful for boat trips, while the Kyoto bamboo forest and the sagano romantic train are nearby too.

Highly recommended for any Japan visit!

Love the ambience and the Japanese style room. Especially enjoyed wearing the yukata around the ryokan. You can call down for a different size and they bring it to you right away.
Hot springs were beautiful and very well maintained. Enjoyed the amenities offered especially the salt scrubs.
Exactly what I was looking for.