“From the front door of Ryokan Kurashiki, you can walk about three minutes and find yourself standing on the threshold of a traditional restaurant, in the private workshop of a local artisan, or in front of a painting by Monet.”

Client: Setouchi Reflection Trip, the official travel guide to the Setouchi Region of Japan.

Project Description: Write a travel advertorial with photographs.

A Quote

“From the front door of Ryokan Kurashiki, you can walk about three minutes and find yourself standing on the threshold of a traditional restaurant, in the private workshop of a local artisan, or in front of a painting by Monet.”

The Inside Scoop

I really dig Bikan Street in Kurashiki. To me, it’s got a bit of the Kyoto vibe, only without the same mega-throng of tourists and that sort of “theme-parky” vibe which hovers over so much of the sights there.

That’s not to say that Kurashiki doesn’t have gobs of tourists — because it does for a lot of the year — but it never reaches the same tsunami levels.

Ryokan Kurashiki is also a fantastic spot. Our interviewee for the piece was amazing and kind, and extended the same hospitality to us even when we returned as some of those aforementioned tourists and just dropped by to say hello.

And as far as my own tastes go, Kurashiki definitely hits the sweet spot. A boatful of history, beautiful rustic amenities, and top tier Japanese omotenashi. I call it a win.

My only regret for the piece was the painful lack of time we had to thoroughly explore and pay our proper respects — circumstances I hint at at the end of the article.

My Favorite Part

Talking with Nakamura-san. She was so gracious and knowledgeable. I still dream of staying there someday.

See the results: 
Ryokan Kurashiki – Modern Comfort, Vintage Style