Hotels in Kurashiki

Kurashiki: A Timeless Journey Through Art, Spirit, and Serenity

Nestled in Okayama Prefecture, Kurashiki enchants visitors with its beautifully preserved historical quarter, where traditional wooden buildings line picturesque canals. This cultural gem is rich in museums, including the famed Ohara Museum of Art, and showcases the serene Kuni Shrine and the tranquil Garden Kurashiki. Explore its charming streets, dotted with artisan shops and quaint cafes, before venturing to nearby Naoshima Island, home to modern art installations. With its blend of history, art, and natural beauty, Kurashiki invites travelers to experience a captivating journey through time in this romantic, off-the-beaten-path destination. For the best hotel rates in Kurashiki and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Kurashiki

Some of the best places to stay in Kurashiki are Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter and Konpira Onsen. Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, offers travelers a rich cultural experience. The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is ideal for first-time visitors, showcasing traditional architecture, picturesque canals, and charming shops. In this area, accommodations range from cozy inns to modern hotels featuring Japanese rooms and warm hospitality. Konpira Onsen, known for its relaxing hot springs, provides a more tranquil experience with ryokan-style inns, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Both locations promise memorable stays. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Kurashiki:

1. Kurashiki Bikan Historical QuarterOpens in a new window: Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a charming area rich in culture, featuring traditional architecture, historical buildings, and beautiful canals. It's a great spot for those interested in art and shopping, with nearby attractions like the Ohara Museum of Art and Mitsui Outlet Park Kurashiki. For comfortable stays, consider ANA Crowne Plaza Okayama, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel catering to business travelers with multiple meeting rooms and a business center. Another option is Hotel Granvia OkayamaOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, which offers a variety of dining options including a buffet breakfast and is close to city center shopping. For a business-friendly environment, Okayama International HotelOpens in a new window provides conference space and multiple meeting rooms, making it a suitable choice for professionals.
2. Konpira OnsenOpens in a new window: Konpira Onsen is an idyllic destination known for its natural hot springs and cultural experiences, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration. Visitors can enjoy the famous Kotohira-gu Shrine and the Konpira Grand Theatre. For a luxurious experience, Kotohira KadanOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star ryokan that features both indoor and outdoor public hot springs, offering a serene spa experience. Kotohira Grand Hotel SakuranoshoOpens in a new window, a well-rated 4.0-star ryokan, also provides hot spring amenities and a full-service spa for ultimate relaxation. If you're looking for a business-oriented stay, Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hananoyu KoubaiteiOpens in a new window offers hot spring access along with business facilities, making it a versatile choice for travelers.

What to do in Kurashiki

A visit to Kurashiki, Japan, typically requires three days to fully appreciate its charming blend of historical architecture and natural beauty. Travelers can enjoy serene parks, tranquil lakes, and lush forests while engaging in activities like hiking, boating, and soaking in hot springs, making it a rejuvenating getaway. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kurashiki:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Omocha Okoku, a delightful toy museum where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and nostalgic toys that will bring out the kid in you. Afterward, make your way to Ojigatake Observatory, which offers stunning panoramic views of Kurashiki and the surrounding landscape—a perfect spot for capturing memorable photos. Conclude your day with a visit to Gozenhachimangu Shrine, a tranquil place where you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this beautifully maintained shrine.
• Day 2: Start your day on Naoshima Island by exploring the Benesse House Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of contemporary art within a stunning architectural setting. After soaking in the art, head to the Naoshima Pavilion, where you can enjoy unique installations and beautiful outdoor spaces. Wind down your day at the Honmura Lounge & Archive, a cozy spot perfect for relaxing and reflecting on the incredible art experiences you’ve encountered throughout the day.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Okayama South Village, a charming open-air museum that features traditional buildings and artisan crafts, giving you insight into rural Japanese life. Next, visit the iconic Okayama Castle, known for its stunning black exterior and beautiful gardens. Wrap up your day at Kibitsu Shrine, famous for its long, vermilion-lacquered corridor and lush surroundings, offering a peaceful end to your exploration of Japan's rich history and culture.

5 tips to find a great Kurashiki hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Kurashiki are January, June, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure better prices. To get the most out of your trip, it's recommended to stay for at least 1-2 days to fully experience the city's highlights. Key attractions in Kurashiki include fascinating museums and beautiful temples, making it a destination that offers great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Kurashiki? You could find great rates on hotels by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. With good availability near your travel dates, you're more likely to uncover discounted accommodations. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers. Don't miss your chance to save on your stay in this charming city!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Kurashiki.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Kurashiki and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Kurashiki

Here are a few popular dining spots in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, Japan:

• ぶっかけ亭本舗 ふるいち 仲店: A beloved eatery known for its deliciously unique take on udon dishes, this restaurant offers a delightful experience with its signature bukkake udon. The menu showcases the best of Okayama's local ingredients, allowing visitors to savor the authentic flavors of the region in every bite. With a focus on freshness and quality, this spot is perfect for those looking to indulge in a traditional yet creative Japanese culinary delight.
• とらや: This popular establishment is celebrated for its innovative approach to classic Japanese cuisine. Offering a variety of seasonal dishes that highlight local produce, the restaurant emphasizes traditional cooking techniques while infusing modern twists. Diners can expect a symphony of flavors that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of Okayama, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

Best time to go to Kurashiki

Kurashiki experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 42.1°F (5.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.0°F (27.8°C). July is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in Kurashiki, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.