Overview

Step into the “Villa in the Valley”—a peaceful escape just two hours from Tokyo, where the Kinugawa River winds through dramatic cliffs and lush forests. Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel offers a luxurious blend of Japanese elegance and Western refinement, inspired by the vision of its founder, John Kanaya. This ryokan invites you to reconnect with yourself, surrounded by nature and touched by the spirit of hospitality.

Whether you want to gaze out over the river from your terrace, relax in a hot spring, or enjoy a thoughtful course dinner, this is where comfort and beauty come together in every moment.

Accommodation

Each guest room at Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel opens to the sights and sounds of the Kinugawa Valley. Every room features a private wooden terrace where you can take in the flowing river and seasonal landscape without interruption. The interiors combine Japanese simplicity with Western functionality, creating a soothing retreat you’ll never want to leave.

Choose from seven room types, including suites with open-air baths, Japanese-Western combinations, and river-view deluxe rooms. Every room offers carefully curated touches: an audio system, three pillow options, in-room massage availability, and optional aroma diffusers to enhance your rest.

All rooms are non-smoking and include a full set of amenities: toiletries, yukata, nightwear, towels, a tea set, a refrigerator, and a DVD player. Every detail is designed to help you relax in comfort while staying closely connected to nature.

Dining

Dining at Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel blends the tradition of Japanese kaiseki with refined Western influence. Every dish draws from the local seasons, prepared with precision and creativity.

At Dining JOHN KANAYA, you’ll enjoy a course called Wakeiyosan, which celebrates the harmony of East and West. Seasonal flavors are enhanced by elegant presentation and service.

If you prefer a more dynamic dining experience, head to Teppan Zendokoro Kanaya. Here, chefs prepare each dish on a teppanyaki grill right in front of you, turning dinner into a live performance.

After your meal, retire to the lounge where the Sweets Wagon offers handmade desserts, including the hotel’s signature chocolates. You can also enjoy digestifs and cocktails as you wind down the evening in soft lighting.

Onsen and Wellness

The hot spring at Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel has flowed since 1691. These clear, gentle waters—classified as simple alkaline—are known for soothing sensitive skin and relieving fatigue, joint pain, and muscle soreness.

You can soak in the large communal baths that offer stunning views of the valley. The scent of Japanese cypress and the rhythm of the river help you relax deeply. Each bath shifts in appearance with the season, making every visit feel fresh and new.

Many rooms also include private open-air baths, allowing you to enjoy a soak at your own pace in the comfort of your suite.

Guests with Tattoos

The hotel does not list restrictions for tattoos. If privacy is preferred, rooms with private baths provide a relaxing alternative to the communal hot springs.

Facilities

Kinugawa Kanaya Hotel offers thoughtful services and spaces to enhance your stay:

• Cigar Salon: A refined lounge with a curated selection of cigars.
• Room Service: Enjoy the hotel’s cuisine in the comfort of your room.
• In-room massages: Bookable through the front desk to fully relax.
• All rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, yukata, and nightwear.

Public spaces are beautifully lit and furnished, designed to help you move seamlessly from day to night. Whether you’re sipping tea on the terrace or relaxing in the lounge, you’ll feel fully at ease.

Activities

Spend your time exploring the surrounding Kinugawa area, rich with nature and tradition. Visit the nearby Nikko shrines, hike through the rugged valley trails, or take in the views from a riverside walkway.

The ryokan also invites you to spend time inside—whether dining slowly, soaking in the onsen, or enjoying a cigar in the lounge. Every moment is designed to help you slow down and reconnect with yourself.

Additional Features

• Easy access from Tokyo via Kinugawa Onsen Station
• Private wooden terraces with river views in every room
• In-room aroma diffusers and pillow selection for better sleep
• Cigar salon and sweets lounge
• Kaiseki and teppanyaki dining options
• Historic hot spring with therapeutic properties
• Elegant interior design blending East and West