Yamanoo
Kanazawa

Tucked away in the historic city of Kanazawa, Yamanoo is a ryokan that offers a perfect fusion of time-honoured Japanese tradition and serene luxury. This intimate retreat invites guests to step into a slower pace of life, one where the rhythms of nature and the art of hospitality blend seamlessly to create a deeply immersive experience. Whether you're looking to explore the rich history of Kanazawa or unwind in a peaceful sanctuary, Yamanoo delivers on every level.

Upon arrival, you're greeted by the ryokan's understated beauty, where simplicity reigns and every detail feels considered and refined. Yamanoo is an oasis of calm, with low wooden beams, tatami floors and sliding shoji doors. The design is minimalist yet warm, drawing on traditional Japanese aesthetic principles to create an atmosphere that feels timeless and entirely in harmony with the surrounding nature. The ryokan is surrounded by lush gardens, which add to the sense of tranquility, creating an ideal setting for reflection and relaxation.

The rooms at Yamanoo are designed to be both comfortable and offer a genuine taste of Japanese living. With futons laid on tatami mats, soft lighting, minimalist decor and calming hues, guests are able to truly disconnect in quiet luxury. The views from the windows are equally serene, with glimpses of the carefully tended gardens and the beauty of Kanazawa’s natural surroundings. 

Dining at Yamanoo is an immersive experience in itself with each dish bringing you closer to Kanazawa’s culinary heritage. The ryokan's kaiseki meals are a celebration of the freshest, seasonal ingredients from the region, with every dish showcasing the meticulous artistry of Japanese cuisine. Each course is a work of art, beautifully presented and reflecting the changing seasons of Kanazawa, from the delicate sashimi to the expertly grilled fish, every bite is a testament to the region’s bountiful natural produce.

Yamanoo also offers a traditional onsen experience that provides the perfect antidote to a day of sightseeing. The hot spring baths are a sublime way to relax and rejuvenate, with the warm mineral-rich waters offering a moment of calm that perfectly complements the tranquil atmosphere of the ryokan. The soothing effects of the onsen, combined with the peaceful surroundings, encourage a sense of complete relaxation, allowing guests to emerge feeling renewed both physically and mentally.

Kanazawa is known for its well-preserved samurai districts, traditional crafts and picturesque gardens, and offers a wealth of cultural exploration. Whether you’re wandering through the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, visiting the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art or enjoying the silence in the gardens at Yamanoo, this ryokan offers a restful pause in any tailor-made journey of Japan.

When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.
Susan Heller