Overview
Kichimu sits along the coast of Kominato Onsen in Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture. Located in front of Tanjoji Temple, the birthplace of Nichiren, this seaside ryokan invites you to enjoy a relaxing escape with views of the Pacific Ocean and a charming local port town. As you walk through the entrance, you’re greeted by the scent of salt in the air and the sound of waves in the distance. Spend your time gazing out over the shifting ocean, breathing in the sea breeze, and letting your mind and body unwind.
Accommodation
Kichimu offers 92 rooms divided among three wings: Yoshitei, Yumetei, and Bettei. Each room is designed to let you fully enjoy the coastal setting and offers a blend of Japanese style with comfort-focused features.
The most spacious suites, such as “Sora” in Yumetei, stretch to 100 square meters, with panoramic windows revealing the sea at sunrise and sunset. Other standout rooms include corner suites with views of the fishing harbor and premium rooms with private open-air baths.
You can choose from Japanese-style, Western-style, or hybrid rooms with tatami and beds. Many feature open-air baths, jet baths, or wide windows overlooking the ocean or harbor. Universal rooms with accessible features are available on the ground floor.
Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with a group, you’ll find a room that suits your needs. Each space invites you to slow down, appreciate the scenery, and enjoy the rhythms of a coastal town.
Dining
Your meals at Kichimu celebrate the seasonal flavors of Boso’s ocean and mountains. Dinner features traditional multi-course kaiseki meals made with local fish, abalone, Ise lobster, and seasonal vegetables.
Try the “Ichigo Ichie” course—an ever-changing premium kaiseki experience crafted from the finest ingredients of the day. For a rich seafood-focused dinner, the “Bosozen” course includes sashimi, grilled sea snail, and simmered kinmedai. If you prefer a more focused selection, the “Takumin no Zen” course simplifies the meal while still highlighting exceptional ingredients.
In the morning, enjoy a buffet of over 40 dishes including grilled dried fish, miso soup, sazae curry, fresh vegetables, fruit smoothies, and eggs cooked to order. Alternatively, choose a traditional Japanese breakfast set served with views of the ocean.
You can dine in the Gokan grill restaurant, the Aun fine dining restaurant, or one of the other meal halls depending on your plan. The ryokan offers private dining rooms for a more intimate meal as well.
Onsen and Wellness
Kichimu’s signature feature is the rooftop open-air bath, located 35 meters above ground level. From here, you can look out over the Pacific Ocean as the sun sets and the town begins to glow. The experience feels like you’re floating above the sea.
You can soak in the rotating bath areas named “Shōgan no Yu,” “Tanjō no Yu,” and “Manten no Yu.” Each offers different views and designs, from natural rock settings to wooden tubs that open onto the sky. The bath schedule alternates for men and women, giving everyone a chance to enjoy each unique space.
You can also reserve the private rooftop bath “Hoshi” for an added fee. Although there are no shower facilities in the private bath, it offers peaceful, uninterrupted time to soak in the views.
Indoor baths include two large stone baths named “Kichiyu” and “Yumeyu” on the 9th floor. These baths also switch by gender throughout the day and provide expansive sea views.
Guests with Tattoos
If you have tattoos, you can still enjoy a private bath by reserving the “Hoshi” bath on the rooftop. This option allows for a private and comfortable experience without restrictions.
Facilities
Kichimu is designed to make your stay relaxing and complete. You can find lounge spaces, banquet halls, and a souvenir shop. The ryokan also hosts weddings and larger gatherings, offering flexible spaces to meet different needs.
Public areas include quiet corners for reading or ocean gazing, and common areas are clean, bright, and easy to navigate. The ryokan provides a rental lounge benefit with certain plans, giving you access to even more tranquil spots to relax.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. Accessible rooms, private baths, and support for dietary needs are all available upon request.
Activities
Step outside and you’re just a short walk from Tanjoji Temple. You can also explore the nearby fishing port or visit local shops and cafes. The staff recommends visiting Kamogawa Sea World or the Katsuura Underwater Park, both a short drive away.
In the summer, you can enjoy local fireworks displays, swim at nearby beaches, or relax with a coffee from the Aya Haru Coffee stand at the temple. Cultural activities like walking in yukata or watching the sunset from the ryokan’s rooftop are simple ways to connect with the area.
Additional Features
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the building
- Rooms with ocean or harbor views
- Family- and group-friendly layouts
- Private rooftop onsen rental
- Rotating gender access for all large baths
- Seasonal dining courses using local ingredients
- Easy access to Kamogawa’s cultural and natural attractions