Kifune Ugenta

Kifune Ugenta: An Exquisite Ryokan Retreat in Kyoto's Serene Valley

Kifune Ugenta, nestled in the tranquil Kibune village just outside Kyoto, is a highly acclaimed ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that has earned a prestigious One Michelin Key rating for offering a very special stay. This 200-year-old establishment is celebrated for its immersive natural setting, impeccable service, and exceptional dining, promising an unforgettable experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Kifune Ugenta is overwhelmingly positive, with guests describing it as a "gem" and an "unforgettable experience." Visitors consistently highlight the restorative and delightful atmosphere, emphasizing the personalized care and serene environment. It is often considered a prime destination for honeymoons and those seeking a luxurious escape into nature.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several standout aspects of Kifune Ugenta:

• Stunning Natural Surroundings: The ryokan is enveloped by nature, situated on a winding river amidst cliffs and a peaceful forest. The gentle sound of the river is noted as particularly relaxing at night.
• Impeccable Service: The hospitality is frequently described as exceptional, with staff providing personalized care and meticulous attention to detail.
• Unique Dining Experience: The seasonal kaiseki cuisine, especially the summer "kawadoko" (riverbed dining), is a major draw.
• Exclusive & Private Setting: With only two distinct lodging units, guests enjoy a sense of exclusivity and privacy.

3. Room Quality

Kifune Ugenta offers two distinct lodging units: one features modern Western-style decor, and the other is adorned with traditional Japanese touches. Both styles are described as minimal and immaculate. The traditional Japanese room has been called "wonderful," and one Japanese-style suite is noted for its beautiful design by George Nakashima. Regardless of the room style, the aesthetic is meticulously pared down to shift focus to the outside world. Each room also includes both an indoor and an outdoor bathtub, with the outdoor option highly recommended for its immediate views, river sounds, and fresh forest air. The Japanese-style room can accommodate up to six guests, while the Westernized room comfortably fits four. Guests considering the traditional Japanese room should be aware that sleeping is typically on a futon, which is thinner than a Western mattress.

4. Dining Experience

The dining at Kifune Ugenta is consistently praised as exceptional and extraordinary. Meals (both breakfast and dinner are included) are prepared with thought, detail, and incredibly fresh produce.

• Seasonal Kaiseki: The cuisine focuses on seasonal flavors and fresh ingredients, showcasing Kyoto cuisine with a unique style.
• Summer Riverbed Dining (Kawadoko): In summer, diners are seated on a deck just a few feet above the Kifune River, offering a surreal and magical atmosphere with the gentle sound of water and soft lantern glow. Specialties include seasonal river fish like ayu (sweetfish) and amago (eel), which are specially prepared after being cleaned in the river's subsoil water.
• Winter In-Room Dining: During winter, meals are served inside the privacy of the guest rooms, featuring heartier fare such as hot pot soup, mountain vegetables, and wild boar.
• Breakfast: While less specifically detailed than dinner, breakfast is included and prepared with the same attention to detail. Reservations for the restaurant are required up to four days in advance, and a 15% service charge is applied.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Kifune Ugenta is consistently highlighted as impeccable, outstanding, and a major reason for guests' positive experiences. Staff members are described as kind, friendly, helpful, and attentive to every detail, from meals to room and schedule. Guests report feeling deeply cared for, with personalized touches such as thoughtful gifts for special occasions. Even with potential language barriers, communication is seamless, aided by staff using pocket translators.

6. Location & Accessibility

Kifune Ugenta is located in the quaint village of Kibune, nestled in the deep forest between Mount Kibune and Mount Kurama, upstream of the Kamogawa River. This secluded location offers an immersive experience with nature throughout the seasons.

• Nearby Attractions: It is just a valley away from the renowned Kurama temple and a 5-minute walk from Kifune Shrine, a famous power spot.
• Transport: While secluded, it is accessible. From Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, one can take a Keihan train to Demachiyanagi Station, then transfer to the Eizan Train bound for Kurama and get off at Kibune-guchi Station. Kifune Ugenta offers complimentary shuttle service from Kibune-guchi Station if arranged in advance, making arrival convenient. A taxi ride from Kibune-guchi Station takes approximately 5 minutes.

7. Value & Pricing

Kifune Ugenta is considered an expensive, high-end ryokan. Rates begin at 124,200 JPY per night, which includes breakfast and dinner. The pricing reflects the exclusive nature of the two-room, 200-year-old property, the exceptional service, and the unique, immersive experience it offers. Despite the cost, many guests feel it is "definitely a place you'll never forget" and worth the expense for an unforgettable experience.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some points of concern for potential guests include:

• Dietary Restrictions: The hotel's kitchen cannot accommodate significant dietary restrictions. Vegetarians, in particular, will find extremely limited options as even vegetable dishes are prepared with fish stock.
• Age Restriction: Children under 13 are not allowed at Ugenta.
• Booking Difficulty: Reservations cannot be made immediately online and require contacting their customer service team, or making an availability inquiry through their official website or TabletHotels.com, potentially adding a layer of complexity to the booking process.
• Traditional Futon Beds: For guests unaccustomed to sleeping on a harder surface, the traditional Japanese futon in some rooms might be less comfortable than a spring mattress.

Sources

1. wanderlog.com
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11. enjoy-osaka-kyoto-kobe.com
12. tablethotels.com