
1. A Legacy in Every Sip: The History of C ...
- Jan. 16. 2025
Hidden away in the peaceful countryside of Ohara, Kyoto, Hachikan, a private resort, offers an intimate escape from the everyday world. This elegant villa harmoniously blends contemporary luxury with traditional Japanese design, creating a tranquil retreat where guests can unwind and find renewal.
As you pass through the traditional gate from the oldest zen temple, Kenninji, you’ll discover a historic garden where a centuries-old farmhouse and a Sukiya-style tea room stand side by side. Originally the home of a wealthy merchant and later a distinguished tea house, the 250-year-old estate was transformed into Hachikan in the spring of 2023, providing an exclusive one-guest-per-day experience.
The traditional features of the main house, such as the traditional kitchen, hearth, tokonoma (alcove), and intricate woodwork, have been carefully preserved, maintaining the historic charm of the building. Meanwhile, the former guest house has been luxuriously transformed into a comfortable accommodation space. With the addition of a full-service spa and a cypress wood bath, the property now offers a sanctuary where you can fully relax.
During your stay at Hachikan, time is truly your own. Whether you’re enjoying a soothing massage, refreshing yourself in the sauna, or taking a nap on the traditional engawa (veranda), you’ll feel the weight of the world lift. In the peaceful atmosphere of Ohara, everything from fresh vegetables to the sound of the irori (hearth) will enable you to restore your senses.
The guest rooms, located in a separate building, offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether framed by cherry blossoms in the spring or vibrant autumn leaves, the scenery offers a beautiful backdrop throughout the year. The rooms also feature a mini-kitchen, perfect for longer stays.
Hachikan also offers a unique spa experience, with a modern steam sauna inspired by ancient Roman thermal baths. This soothing sauna provides a deep, gentle warmth that reaches your core. The wellness area features both dry and steam saunas, while the outdoor terrace houses a cold plunge pool and a traditional soaking tub with views of the Kitayama mountains.
To wrap up your stay, experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony in the “Joshun” tea room, built in the Sukiya style. Led by a skilled tea master, this serene ritual offers a peaceful conclusion to your time at Hachikan.
Address: 108 Todera-cho, Ohara, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-744-0997 (Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM)
Website: https://hachikan.jp/en/
Rates:
1 Night, 1 Room from ¥800,000 – The “Hachikan Ohara All-Inclusive Plan”
Starting from ¥1,000,000 for 2 guests (groups of 5 or more, please inquire). The plan includes dinner, breakfast by the chef, a relaxation massage at the Hachikan Spa, and a tea ceremony experience. Reservations are required 3 days in advance.
A casual hotel, guided by the concept of “Simplicity and Comfort” is now open in Kyoto’s Nakagyō Ward. Enjoy Kyoto’s way of life with all five of your senses.
Address: 490-1 Nishido-cho, Ogawa-dori, Sanjo-agaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Phone:075-585-2728
Prices are current as of January 16, 2025, including tax. Additional service charges, accommodation tax, and bath tax may apply. Please note that ingredients or presentation of dishes may change depending on availability.
Photo Credit: Shogo Oizumi
Text Contribution: Tomoko Tsuyuki