Kiyosato Highland - Image 1
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Kiyosato Highland

4.6
·57 reviews·Hokuto, Japan

Elegant highland hotel with stunning mountain views, refined French dining, and serene gardens.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms bloom

CrowdMedium
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Kiyosato Highland - Image 1

Kiyosato Highland

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms bloom

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Elegant highland hotel with stunning mountain views, refined French dining, and serene gardens.

4.6
(57 reviews)

"A lovely little hotel with the best hospitality, nestled in the forest at the foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains."

Vertical photo
TIP

☕ Coffee with a View

Enjoy coffee at Kiyosato Terrace for breathtaking views, though it can be pricey.

🐾 Pet-Friendly Strolls

Many areas are great for walks with pets, though some may require leashes.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 57 reviews

Type

Hotel

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Yatsugatake Views

Panoramic Yatsugatake Views

Various viewpoints across the highland

Breathtaking vistas of the majestic Yatsugatake Mountains, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.

Kiyosato Terrace Dining

Kiyosato Terrace Dining

Kiyosato Terrace

Savor delicious meals and coffee amidst fresh highland breezes with unparalleled scenic backdrops.

Paul Rusch Memorial Road

Paul Rusch Memorial Road

Slopes of Kiyosato

A scenic 2km path offering changing colors with seasons, from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves.

Intimate Concert Hall

Intimate Concert Hall

Annex Music Hall

Experience captivating live music performances in a cozy, intimate setting after dinner.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Highland Charm

Kiyosato Highland offers breathtaking views and a serene escape. Plan your visit to coincide with pleasant weather for optimal enjoyment of the expansive landscapes and outdoor activities. Consider booking accommodations and dining in advance, especially during peak seasons, as this hidden gem is gaining popularity.

A Taste of Elegance

This highland retreat is known for its refined dining experiences, particularly its classical French cuisine. While the hotel itself is historic, it's meticulously maintained. Be prepared for a sophisticated atmosphere that blends comfort with a touch of old-world charm.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Cherry blossoms bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Clear starry skies
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Having a coffee on the highland so expensive with one regular paper cup. Yay. So it must be profitable business in Kiyosato Terrace. But the scenic views are breathtaking including the Fujiさん
_s.n.___intokyo
1 likes • 22 views

☕ Coffee with a View

Enjoy coffee at Kiyosato Terrace for breathtaking views, though it can be pricey. Instagram

🐾 Pet-Friendly Strolls

Many areas are great for walks with pets, though some may require leashes. Instagram+1

It is great to have lunch on the terrace in the fresh highland breeze. #cafecatnap #cafecatnapkiyosato #lechatdesbois #cat #catsofinstagram #catstagram #猫 #ねこ #ねこすたぐらむ #ネコ #ネコ部 #猫同伴可 #kiyosato #ルシャデボア #清里カフェ
jun_ishihara
31 likes • 861 views
Kiyosato highland feel autumn 今日はテニスコートの近くまで行って 秋🍂の気配を探して来ました 少しずつ紅葉🍁が始まっています そのあとは芝生広場をお散歩しました ラフマニノフはお散歩は上手で ほとんど道草をしないで真っ直ぐ歩きます アマルフィはにおいを嗅ぐのが大好きで あちこち寄り道して歩きます 先輩犬なのに今迄好きに歩かせていたから ラフマニノフが来てから アマルフィの歩き方が気になり始めています 少し訓練始めようかなと思っています それにしてもラフマニノフはまだ お庭以外の外ではトイレが出来ません 何時になったら出来るようになるのでしょう #borzoisofinstagram #borzoilove #borzoi #hounddogsofinstagram #hounddog #borzoï #russianwolfhound #kiy...
nonnon3029
180 likes • 587 views

🎶 Evening Concerts

Don't miss the post-dinner concerts; they are longer and more engaging than expected. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Garden Exploration

The gardens are perfect for leisurely walks and birdwatching, especially for narcissus flycatchers. Reddit

#美し森 #八ヶ岳 #清里高原 #きよフォト #yatsugatake #kiyosato #highland #photobox
utukusi_mori
20 likes • 205 views

Tips

from all over the internet

☕ Coffee with a View

Enjoy coffee at Kiyosato Terrace for breathtaking views, though it can be pricey. Instagram

🐾 Pet-Friendly Strolls

Many areas are great for walks with pets, though some may require leashes. Instagram+1

🎶 Evening Concerts

Don't miss the post-dinner concerts; they are longer and more engaging than expected. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Garden Exploration

The gardens are perfect for leisurely walks and birdwatching, especially for narcissus flycatchers. Reddit

🚗 Drive Carefully

The approach to the hotel is through a forest; the view opens up suddenly. Drive cautiously. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(57 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kiyosato Highland for its breathtaking mountain views, elegant classical French cuisine, and the serene atmosphere of its historic accommodations. The attentive service and unique cultural offerings, like intimate evening concerts, are frequently highlighted as exceptional. While some find the prices for dining and coffee to be on the higher side, the overall experience is described as a delightful and memorable escape.

"The building is old but well-maintained, and the rooms and restaurant are comfortable.
The staff were friendly and provided a great service to all customers.
I was very satisfied with everything, from the classical and historical French course meal, to the comfortable room with a forest view, the pleasant private bath, and the hospitality of the staff.
After dinner, I attended a piano concert in the music hall. I thought it would be a typical 30-minute entertainment, but the musicians gave one wonderful performance after another, explaining the background of the music and the composer's intentions, and before I knew it, an hour and a half had passed.
It was an extraordinary situation, and I was able to spend a wonderful time.
I was also able to observe my favorite narcissus flycatcher up close in the garden, which was very satisfying."

Toru Tajima

"This hotel has been with us for over 40 years.
It's evolving every time I go.
This time, we visited with 7 people from 4 generations of the family. A little bit from the main building
We stayed in a separate cottage and drove to the main building for meals.
It's a hotel that will be crowded with the season in full swing."

宮島豊

"You might initially wonder, "Is there really a hotel here?" as you enter the forest, but the view suddenly opens up, and a classic hotel nestled among the trees suddenly appears. Despite its boutique size, the grounds are spacious, with ample parking. Strolling through the courtyard is pleasant, and the detached small concert hall and private hot spring building offer a lovely atmosphere. The two-story cottage, rented entirely from the grounds, offers a comfortable view of Mount Yatsugatake and the farm. And above all, the high-quality French full-course cuisine is a delight. It's worth visiting just for this. The menu is unpretentious, yet classic, yet the flavors are sumptuous. Enjoying this meal while sipping wine in the dignified dining atmosphere is a real pleasure. Furthermore, the clean facilities and soaking in the hot springs leave you feeling completely refreshed. If you happen to stay on the day of a concert featuring promising young performers, you'll be in for a treat. While the price isn't ideal for young people, I highly recommend it as a hideaway for adults. However, even as I write this, I wish it wasn't too crowded."

leschaumes03 Kyoto

What People Like

Stunning mountain vistas
Elegant French dining
Attentive, friendly service

What People Dislike

Can be expensive
Weather can change quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kiyosato Highland is accessible by car, offering a scenic drive through forested areas. Public transportation options might involve trains to nearby stations followed by a bus or taxi. Many visitors appreciate the journey as part of the experience. Reddit

Driving is generally convenient, with ample parking available at accommodations and attractions. The roads leading to the highland are well-maintained, though some can be winding. Reddit

Exploring by car offers flexibility to visit various viewpoints and attractions. For shorter distances, walking and hiking are excellent ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Instagram

Information on specific shuttle services can vary. It's advisable to check with your accommodation or local tourist information centers for the most up-to-date details on transportation within Kiyosato. Reddit

While there isn't a direct train station within Kiyosato Highland itself, you can take trains to nearby stations like Kiyosato Station on the Koumi Line, and then arrange for local transport. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Kiyosato Highland itself is generally free, as it's a natural area. However, specific attractions like hotels, cafes, or parks within the highland may have admission fees or require reservations. InstagramReddit

Opening hours for Kiyosato Terrace and other cafes can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check their official websites or social media for the most current information before your visit. Instagram+1

The gardens associated with accommodations like the historic hotel are often accessible to guests. For public parks, fees may apply, but many natural areas are free to explore. Reddit

While the exact price can fluctuate, one visitor noted that coffee at Kiyosato Terrace can be expensive, suggesting it's a premium experience. Instagram

Yes, booking accommodations in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer and autumn, to secure your preferred stay. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Activities include enjoying scenic drives, hiking, birdwatching in the gardens, dining at cafes with views, and attending evening concerts. The Paul Rusch Memorial Road is also a popular spot for a stroll. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The stunning mountain landscapes, seasonal foliage, and charming architecture make it a photographer's paradise. Don't miss the chance to capture the Yatsugatake Mountains. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are cafes like Kiyosato Terrace offering meals and drinks with scenic views. Many accommodations also provide dining options, including classical French cuisine. InstagramReddit

The weather can change rapidly due to the highland elevation. Expect cooler temperatures than the plains, and be prepared for sun, wind, and occasional rain, especially during transitional seasons. Instagram

Some areas, particularly gardens and certain accommodations, are pet-friendly. Always check specific venue policies regarding pets before visiting. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Kiyosato Highland is renowned for its elegant dining, featuring classical French cuisine. Expect high-quality, traditional dishes. Reddit

While the focus is on classical French cuisine, it's always a good idea to inquire with restaurants in advance about vegetarian or vegan options, as menus can be customized. Reddit

The dining experience is described as refined and comfortable, with a focus on classical French courses. The atmosphere is dignified and pleasant, often enhanced by forest views. Reddit

Yes, having lunch on the terrace is a popular option, allowing you to enjoy the fresh highland breeze and scenic views. Instagram+1

One visitor mentioned that coffee at Kiyosato Terrace was expensive, suggesting that dining there is a premium experience, likely reflecting the quality and the view. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic spots include panoramic views of the Yatsugatake Mountains, the scenic Paul Rusch Memorial Road with its seasonal colors, and the charming architecture of the historic hotels and gardens. InstagramReddit

Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be bright, but the clear highland air often provides good visibility. Consider the changing light throughout the day for different moods. Reddit

Yes, the gardens are known for birdwatching, particularly narcissus flycatchers, offering unique wildlife photography opportunities. The seasonal foliage also provides vibrant natural backdrops. Reddit

A versatile lens for landscapes and some telephoto for wildlife or distant mountain details would be beneficial. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures. Instagram

Photography policies inside venues like the concert hall can vary. It's best to check with the venue staff or organizers regarding their rules on photography during performances. Reddit

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