Hiiragiya Ryokan
A traditional Japanese inn, Kiiragiya Ryokan has been in operation since 1861. A product of simple design using traditional bamboo, screens and stones, the inn tries to make everyone feel at home. The multi-lingual staff can help visitors find the best of everything in town. Each of the 28 rooms is unique and offers guests free Internet usage, air conditioning and in-room massage. Room rates as of September 2009 start at ¥30,000 ($250) per person, and go up to ¥90,000 ($750) per person.
Hiiragiya Ryokan
Nakahakusancho
Fuyacho Anekoji-agaru
Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8094, Japan
Phone: 075/221-1136
hiiragiya.co.jp
Kyoto Hostel
Kyoto Hostel is an inexpensive youth hostel located just a few miles outside of Kami-Cho. As of September 2009, single or group rooms are provided for as little as JPY 2500 ($28) per person per night. Located on the Kamogawa River, it offers guests free Internet service, air conditioning, kitchen and laundry facilities. The hostel is located a short distance from the main rail station.
Kyoto Hostel
1- 234 Miyagawa Suji
Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Phone: +81-75 525 -3143
kyotohostel.net
Temples and Theatres
Kami-Cho and Kyoto house several of Japan's oldest and most respected temples and theatres. Kyoto Imperial Palace, only a short distance from either hotel, was once the home of the Imperial family. It currently hosts two English language tours per day. Minamiza Theatre is called the birth place of Kabuki and is renowned for its end-of-year Kabuki performances. Business hours and fees change daily depending on events.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Phone: (075) 211-1215
Minamiza Theatre
Phone: 075-561-1155
Suma Aqualife Park
Located next to the Suma Beach swimming area, the Aquatic Center is a place for families. Bringing underwater wildlife to the surface, the center provides a new view on the Pacific Ocean. The center is home to sharks, stingrays and sea turtles, but also provides live shows, including dolphins and sea otter feeding.
Suma Aqualife Park
Phone: 078-731-7301
Museums
Museums of all sorts abound in Japan. Whether focusing on art, war or history, this region has it all. Visit one of several excavation sites, or some of the oldest forests in the world. For a truly unique experience, visit the Mikimoto Pearl Museum. It offers demonstrations in the ancient Ama Diving technique, an ancient method where women dive deep to collect pearl filled oysters.
Mikimoto Pearl Museum
1-7-1 Toba city
Mie prefecture, Japan
Phone: 0599-25-2028
