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BEST OF
2019
It's official! Beyond X Boundaries is recognized by our peers worldwide as the undisputed bespoke experts of Japan. We will gladly let others speak for us. In so many ways, the Land of the Rising Sun holds a special place in our hearts - the food, the rich culture & heritage, the landscapes, the hot springs, the spirit of "Omotenashi". We present to you our favorite abodes of Zen that will take your breath away!
Ryokan Kurashiki, Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture
Why We Love It:
With just 8 exquisitely and traditional rooms, a time-warped setting, exceptional cuisine and an unrivaled hospitality spirit, Ryokan Kurashiki is our undoubted and undisputed favorite Japanese inn of all time. Kurashiki is no hot spring destination, but its atmosphere and aesthetics takes you to a Japan that still retains its ancient vibe and at the centerpiece of the canal town dubbed the "Venice of Japan", Ryokan Kurashiki best represents it with its in-your-face "kura" warehouse style architecture in all its elegant grace.
Best Time To Visit:
Kurashiki is a destination for festivals. Spring (Late March) holds much of its special charm with cherry blossoms decorating the town in splendor accompanied by the Haruyoi Akari festival illuminating the town with Japanese umbrellas and candles in the evening. Autumn (mid-November) provides the striking contrasts of red maple and yellow gingko leaves against the white kura warehouses creating a most photographic and lasting memory that will take your breath away.
Best Combined with:
Accessible from almost all directions, Kurashiki is easily accessed from Osaka from the east or Hiroshima from the west. The art and gastronomy islands of the Seto Inland Sea are not far away where access can be made via a pleasant ferry away to islands such as Shodoshima, Teshima or Naoshima. Those looking to journey deep into the Iya Valley of Shikoku or the glorious autumn foliage of the Mimasaka area are guaranteed a journey of utter accomplishment teasing all the senses.
Aqua Ignis Ryokan, Kataoka Onsen, Mie Prefecture
Why We Love It:
Sandwiched in the boundaries of northern Mie Prefecture and the ancient ninja domains of Shiga Prefecture lies the modernist Aqua Ignis Ryokan - assembled as a modern interpretation of the quintessential Japanese inn. Food and healing are the reasons why you come here with the perfect marriage of Japanese and Italian cuisine and rooms that are superbly-appointed with elements of minimalism. The therapeutic natural hot springs are housed in settings that purifies the senses and soothes the spirit. What else can we ask for?
Best Time To Visit:
Mie Prefecture is a year-round destination. Winter (Dec - Feb) lends a sheet of white decorating the surroundings while soaking in the warm healing hot springs. Autumn (Oct - Nov) is a celebration of exciting bounties, from the land and the nearby Ise Bay as well as the annual Suzuka Formula One Japanese Grand Prix. Spring (late March - early April) is the most visually spectacular time of the year with cherry blossoms lining every possible area from the close by Lake Biwa.
Best Combined with:
No limits as to how creative a journey can be combined with the Aqua Ignis Ryokan. West of it is the shimmering Lake Biwa and its legacies of the "Saba Kaido" mackerel route. Towards the south lies the domains of the Ise Grand Shrine - one of the most sacred temple grounds of Japan where more than 1,500 rituals are conducted here yearly to pray for the prosperity of the Imperial family, the peace of the world, and the huge harvest. Accessed easily from Nagoya or Kyoto, Aqua Ignis Ryokan is simply a destination that allows you complete relaxation, away from the maddening crowds.
