Seseragi no Yado Kuretake

About Kuretake

Located a short distance from central Shizuoka City along the clear Warashina River, Seseragi no Yado Kuretake is an intimate retreat set in the lush mountains often called Shizuoka’s back parlor. Easily accessible from the Tomei Expressway Shizuoka SA Smart Interchange, it feels worlds away, wrapped in quiet tranquility. Guests can slow down and immerse themselves in the natural rhythms of the region, from the soothing river currents known for sweetfish fishing to the fresh mountain air and starlit skies.

Unlike deep mountain escapes like Sumatakyo Onsen or Oku Oi, Kuretake embodies a philosophy where you can do everything, or absolutely nothing at all. It serves as a peaceful hideaway for travelers and business guests seeking a restful night to unwind both mind and body.

By intentionally keeping guest numbers small, Kuretake preserves a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere. The interior is decorated with curated antique furniture, local Shizuoka handicrafts, and works by Japanese artists, creating a classic and nostalgic Japanese ryokan ambience.

The changing seasons bring natural soundscapes into the inn, from bush warblers in spring and cicadas in summer to crickets in autumn.

To maintain a calm setting, the property does not host groups or children under primary school age. Thoughtful hospitality greets guests from arrival through departure.

The property is roughly a 30 minute drive from JR Shizuoka Station and just 10 minutes from the Shizuoka SA Smart Interchange. Despite its convenient location, the surrounding mountain scenery along the river provides a truly restful getaway.

Dining

Dining at Kuretake highlights seasonal produce from nearby farms, fresh seafood delivered straight from Shimizu Port, and rich ingredients harvested across Shizuoka’s mountains, rivers, and seas. Menus change with the seasons, focusing on serving every dish freshly prepared at its optimal temperature. Rather than a buffet, dinner is served course by course, reflecting the inn’s commitment to minimizing food waste.

Dinner features seasonal Japanese course dining, including artful appetizers, sashimi, warm dishes, grilled meats and fish, delicate tempura, seasonal rice cooked in clay pots, and house desserts. Many items are cooked immediately after guests are seated, ensuring maximum freshness. The clay pot rice arrives steaming hot right at your table. The focus remains on simple, honest flavors and seasonal ingredients rather than extravagant displays.

From early summer through late October, guests can taste wild sweetfish caught in the Warashina River. Prized in upscale restaurants, this delicacy can be enjoyed here fresh from its native waters, occasionally served as rare sashimi when catches allow.

Breakfast is a gentle Japanese spread featuring sun dried sweetfish, warm chawanmushi savory egg custard, local Motoyama wild yam, homemade yogurt, and hand crafted miso made with local farm vegetables. Regional specialties such as Shizuoka oden and artisanal Tajiriya washi pickled horseradish offer a taste of local culinary heritage. Freshly squeezed Shizuoka orange juice is also served during the winter months.

Meals are served in a spacious 80 mat dining room designed for just seven dining groups, featuring floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Warashina River and surrounding green peaks. All seating uses proper chairs for comfort and ease.

Shizuoka is celebrated for its fragrant ginjo sake, thanks to pure water sources and fine rice varieties. Kuretake offers a curated selection of local Shizuoka sakes, perfectly paired with the delicate flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Onsen

Baths at Kuretake are supplied by subterranean radium mineral springs. While not a natural hot spring, the mineral water is gentle on the skin, promotes healthy circulation, and helps soothe fatigue. The facility welcomes guests using ostomy appliances or specialty bathing wear, allowing everyone to enjoy a relaxing soak in the spacious main bath without hesitation.

Both the men’s and women’s bathing facilities offer distinct indoor tubs and open air baths. Set in the clear mountain air, the outdoor baths provide lovely views of the starry night sky. Soft subterranean water with an ultra low mineral hardness of approximately 5 milligrams per liter leaves skin feeling deeply hydrated.

Select guest rooms feature private cypress wood tubs or microbubble baths, allowing guests to choose their preferred style of relaxation.

Listening to morning bird calls or gazing at the moon and stars while soaking brings a deep sense of calm. After bathing, a peaceful stroll along the riverbank makes for a refreshing ritual. Kuretake offers a rare opportunity to enjoy nature filled bathing right within Shizuoka City.

Rooms

Kuretake offers just seven spacious guest rooms, combining traditional Japanese design with modern comfort. With so few rooms, the atmosphere remains quiet and exclusive. Each room offers distinct views and invites cool mountain breezes through the windows.

Room choices range from classic Japanese tatami rooms to Japanese Western suites featuring proper beds set on tatami floors, as well as rooms with private baths. The second floor corner suite includes an indoor Japanese cypress bath, complete with natural cypress wood chips to infuse the bathwater with a rich forest aroma. Large private balconies offer panoramic views of the Warashina River and surrounding mountains.

Other Japanese Western suites feature private microbubble baths, combining the relaxing comfort of tatami living with cozy Western bedding. These rooms are ideal for guests who prefer to soak in complete privacy.

All guest amenities are selected with sustainability in mind.

Two dedicated pet friendly rooms welcome guests traveling with dogs. These suites include access to a private natural turf dog run, making them popular for pet owners. Ground floor rooms with private courtyards feature minimal step barriers and direct access to the dog run, making them ideal for senior or large dogs. To ensure comfort for all guests, pets are restricted to the lobby and pet friendly suites, and are not permitted in the dining room, public baths, or general guest rooms.

Kuretake remains a traditional Japanese ryokan at heart, providing a welcoming space where guests can relax alongside their beloved companion animals.

Special Experience

One of Kuretake’s highlights is the appearance of wild fireflies from June through July. The natural ecosystem along the Warashina River creates a magical sight as tiny lights float along the riverbank after dark, an experience rarely found near urban areas.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with locally grown Motoyama green tea and seasonal sweets. The tea is served traditional style using loose leaves in a teapot, bringing out its natural aroma and depth of flavor. Chilled Motoyama green tea is also provided in guest room refrigerators. In addition, coffee machines are available in the lounge and post bath relaxation spaces, providing welcoming spots to pause and unwind at your own pace.

All water throughout the property comes from pure underground springs drawn on site. With a soft hardness level of around 5 milligrams per liter, the water is smooth to drink and enhances the natural flavor of brewed teas and coffees.

Guests traveling with dogs can make use of the private natural turf dog run. Designed to be gentle on paws and joints, it offers a safe and quiet space for dogs who may feel nervous around other animals.

Above all, Kuretake values a stay where you can do everything, or absolutely nothing at all. Freed from busy schedules, guests can surrender to the quiet passage of time, accompanied only by the sound of flowing water, bird songs, and starry skies. It is the ultimate escape for those wishing to turn simple, unhurried time into a luxury.

Plan List

Access

220-1 Tonzawa, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka, 421-1311

Access by car

From Tokyo

Take the Tomei Expressway or Shin Tomei Expressway to the Shin Shizuoka Interchange. From there, take Route 362 (Warashina Kaido) for approximately 25 minutes.

From the Kansai Area

Take the Shin Tomei Expressway to the Shizuoka Smart Interchange. From there, take Route 362 (Warashina Kaido) for approximately 20 minutes.

Public transportation

From Tokyo

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Shizuoka Station. Board the Shizutetsu Justline Warashina Line bus and get off at the Tomizawa bus stop. The property is about a 3 minute walk from the bus stop.

From the Kansai Area

Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Shizuoka Station. Board the Shizutetsu Justline Warashina Line bus and get off at the Tomizawa bus stop. The property is about a 3 minute walk from the bus stop.

Basic Information

Frequently Asked Questions