Overview

Step into more than 1,300 years of history at Chikurin-in Gunpoen, a ryokan set within the historic grounds of Yoshino in Nara Prefecture. This traditional inn includes Gunpoen Garden, one of the three great gardens of Yamato and a place once visited by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The garden’s peaceful atmosphere and refined beauty offer a glimpse into Japan’s cultural legacy.

During your stay, you’ll walk through tranquil halls, gaze over ancient gardens, and enjoy the kind of quiet moments that only a place with this much history can offer. From spring cherry blossoms to autumn leaves, every season paints the garden with a new expression.

Accommodation

Each room at Chikurin-in Gunpoen blends the spirit of traditional Japanese design with touches of Western comfort. Whether you’re looking for garden views, private baths, or even an in-room sauna, you’ll find a space here that suits your style.

Special Suite – Matsu no Ma

Experience a room once prepared for the imperial family. This elegant space offers unmatched privacy and refinement, making it one of the most distinguished accommodations in Nara.

West Wing Rooms

Enjoy a calm, scenic stay in rooms that mix Japanese and Western styles. These spaces let you relax while taking in the charm of Yoshino.

West Wing Rooms with Sauna

Unwind in your own private sauna. The warm steam melts away daily stress and leaves your body and mind completely refreshed.

West Wing Rooms with Open-Air Bath

Soak in a private open-air bath while you look out over the mountain landscape. These rooms create a quiet, luxurious space for you to enjoy nature and stillness.

Southeast Wing Rooms

Spend time in a room full of traditional charm. These spaces let you enjoy views of Yoshino’s streets and embrace the ryokan’s peaceful atmosphere.

Main Building Retro Rooms

These retro-style rooms overlook the garden and bring back nostalgic memories with classic furnishings and views.

Temple-Inspired Rooms

Stay in a room styled like a traditional temple lodging. From your window, you can see the garden and the town of Yoshino. These rooms reflect the simplicity and warmth of Japan’s older eras.

Dining

Meals at Chikurin-in Gunpoen highlight local ingredients and seasonal flavors. The chefs here bring years of experience from top ryokans and restaurants, creating dishes that reflect both precision and care.

Rikyu Nabe (Rikyu Hot Pot)

Inspired by a dish said to have been created by Sen no Rikyu for Toyotomi Hideyoshi during a cherry blossom viewing, this hot pot uses Yoshino kudzu to add a silky texture. Ingredients include locally sourced shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and your choice of duck, chicken, or pork. Let the ryokan know in advance if you prefer a different meat.

Kaiseki Course Meals

The menu changes with the seasons. You might enjoy seared wagyu in summer or ceramic-grilled dishes in the colder months. Each meal is designed to reflect the time of year and your chosen room.

Taiko-Wan Lunch (Day Plan)

This popular lunch set is available for travelers not staying overnight. You can also choose from other day-use meal plans that include Rikyu Nabe and seasonal kaiseki menus.

Yoshino Sake Tasting

Sample three kinds of local sake and discover the distinct flavors of the region’s breweries.

Onsen and Wellness

Chikurin-in Gunpoen features three communal baths, each with its own atmosphere. These baths are separate for men and women, and a few guest rooms include private baths as well.

Kamoshika no Yu

Marked by a deer statue, this spacious bath lets you relax deeply in warm water after a long day.

Tennin no Yu

Wooden tubs and soft lighting make this bath feel timeless. You can enjoy the changing colors of Yoshino’s hills as you soak.

Musasabi no Yu

Step outside to a beautifully designed open-air bath. From here, you can take in the views of Yoshino Mountain while enjoying fresh air and warm water.

Guests with Tattoos

You can use the communal baths at Chikurin-in Gunpoen, even if you have tattoos. If you prefer more privacy, consider booking a room with its own bath for a personal soak in peace.

Facilities

The ryokan offers everything you need to feel at ease:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
• Seasonal views from the lobby and garden
• Shared and private dining rooms
• Media features, including 360° video tours and local TV coverage
• Close proximity to cultural landmarks and hiking trails

You can check in from mid-afternoon and begin enjoying the garden, the baths, and your room right away.

Activities

Chikurin-in Gunpoen makes a perfect base for exploring Yoshino’s historic and spiritual sites. Just outside the ryokan, you’ll find:

• Kinpusen-ji Temple and Zao-do Hall
• Yoshimizu Shrine
• Kimpusen Shrine
• Seasonal festivals, including cherry blossoms in spring and brilliant foliage in autumn

The ryokan also hosts occasional cultural events and is frequently featured in travel media. You can learn more about current happenings through the blog and official channels.

Additional Features

• Historic Gunpoen Garden on-site
• Wide range of room types, from retro-style to luxury suites
• Open-air and sauna-equipped rooms available
• Traditional hot pot and kaiseki cuisine
• Walking distance to temples and local attractions
• Open to day-use guests for lunch and baths
• Free internet access throughout the ryokan