Staying at Beniya Mukayu: Culture and Luxury Combined

At first, my interest in staying at Beniya Mukayu peaked when I imagined the chance to stay in a luxurious hotel, unwind with nothing to do, and soak in hot spring water privately, without having to get nude in front of strangers (haha but serious). Of course it was relaxing to stay there after 8 days of exploring Tokyo and Kyoto by foot. However, the experience became something much deeper than relaxation, and I will always cherish these memories from a day at the ryokan (Japanese inn).

Our stay started at the train station. My friend and I were escorted in a private car to the property. Already feeling special and cared for, I walked through the doors of the hotel and was instantly struck by its beauty and simplistic design. We were asked to take a seat and were served fresh juice while our bags were taken to our room. Then we were taken on a tour of the property, getting the full run down of services offered and what we had to look forward to. When we finally saw our room I was speechless.

What made staying at Beniya Mukayu feel luxurious?

The design of this award-winning hotel is what hits you first–clean lines, seamless incorporation of nature, beautiful simplicity. Then you notice the carefully curated details: spa products formulated specifically for the guests using local ingredients, gorgeous kimonos for every guest to wear complete with traditional slippers, private hot spring or hammock on your balcony depending on what room you choose, handmade pottery available to enjoy tea you can brew in-room, furniture which is traditional yet modern at the same time, a dinner menu that changes each night artfully hand written on parchment paper and given to you before the 8 course meal. There’s also a library, tea house, spa, and dining room on site, not to mention staff who will help you plan local activities if you are staying more than one night. While reading through the welcome packet, I came across a section titled “Unearthing the Meaning of Nothingness,” and I knew I was exactly where I wanted to be.

What made staying at Beniya Mukayu feel cultural?

As much as the stay was a chance to do nothing and be waited on, what surprised me was how much culture was intertwined with everything. The onsen experience is rooted deep in Japanese tradition and bath houses are frequented across the country. You can’t visit Japan without soaking in a hot spring. The meal we were served was a window into Japanese cuisine and wine. What better way to learn about a culture than to eat its food? We were invited to a matcha tea ceremony (which the Japanese have been doing for thousands of years) and drank tea prepared meticulously by the hotel owner. We dressed in beautiful kimonos. We had the chance to do yoga in front of a sacred tree. The walls we stayed in were designed by a famous Japanese architect. I left knowing more about the culture than when I arrived.

What type of traveler should stay at Beniya Mukayu?

Anyone with a desire to leave feeling rejuvenated is the best and most broad answer. It’s a great option for travelers who want to experience soaking in the healing waters of an onsen but aren’t prepared or excited to get naked in front of others to do so. It’s a very zen space which can be viewed as romantic and makes it a great option for couples. I went with a friend and appreciated the chance to try new things or relax depending on how we felt, so I’d say it’s a great option for a girl’s night or weekend as well. Solo travelers would also have a wonderful time as long as they had the budget to splurge on a night’s stay.

Photos from staying at Beniya Mukayu

I’ve shared a few photos below which will always remind me of the restorative power and zen vibes of this hotel. The way it felt to prioritize myself. The way it felt to be served a beautiful meal and open myself up to new foods like grilled bamboo and charred fresh fish (head, eyes, and all!).

The way it felt to learn about the old and the new of a country whose history spans centuries.