Kiyosato Highland - Image 1
1 / 3

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
Loading map...
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

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.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

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

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kiyosato Highland offers a refreshing escape for families. The open spaces and gardens are perfect for children to explore, and some accommodations are pet-friendly, allowing the whole family to enjoy the trip. Instagram+1 While the fine dining might be more suited for older children, the scenic beauty and opportunities for gentle walks can be engaging for younger visitors. Consider packing layers as highland weather can be unpredictable. Instagram

🥂 Couples Seeking Romance

For couples, Kiyosato Highland provides a serene and elegant retreat. Enjoy romantic dinners featuring classical French cuisine, followed by intimate evening concerts. Reddit The breathtaking mountain views and tranquil gardens create a perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway. Consider booking a room with a forest view or a private cottage for an extra touch of seclusion. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore, from the scenic Paul Rusch Memorial Road to the expansive gardens ideal for birdwatching. InstagramReddit The Yatsugatake Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for any outdoor activity. While specific challenging hikes aren't detailed, the general highland terrain offers opportunities for invigorating walks and appreciating the natural landscape. Remember to check weather conditions before venturing out. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the Highland Landscape

Kiyosato Highland is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and the majestic presence of the Yatsugatake Mountains. The elevation provides a unique climate, offering crisp air and expansive skies. Visitors often remark on the dramatic opening of the landscape as they arrive, transitioning from dense forest to breathtaking panoramas. The Paul Rusch Memorial Road is a testament to this natural splendor, showcasing seasonal changes from the delicate pinks of cherry blossoms in spring to the fiery reds and oranges of autumn leaves. This scenic route, named after a significant figure in the region's development, offers a gentle way to experience the highland's evolving beauty. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond the grand mountain vistas, the area is dotted with charming gardens and open spaces. These areas are not only visually appealing but also serve as habitats for local wildlife. Birdwatchers, in particular, find joy in spotting species like the narcissus flycatcher in these tranquil settings. The combination of accessible natural trails and the sheer scale of the mountain views makes Kiyosato Highland a destination that appeals to both casual strollers and avid nature enthusiasts. The feeling of being immersed in nature, with the vastness of the mountains as a backdrop, is a recurring theme in visitor experiences. Reddit

A Culinary Journey and Cultural Experiences

The dining experience in Kiyosato Highland is a significant draw, with a strong emphasis on classical French cuisine. Hotels and restaurants in the area pride themselves on offering high-quality, traditional dishes prepared with care. Visitors frequently praise the elegant French course meals, noting their delicious flavors and sophisticated presentation. The dignified dining atmosphere, often complemented by views of the surrounding forests, enhances the overall culinary journey. While the cuisine is classic, chefs are noted for their long tenure, suggesting a consistent quality and evolving mastery of their craft. Reddit

Complementing the fine dining are unique cultural offerings, most notably the intimate concerts held in dedicated music halls. These performances are often described as a highlight, exceeding expectations with their quality and engagement. Musicians not only perform but also share insights into the music's background and composers' intentions, creating a rich and immersive experience that can last well over an hour. This blend of culinary excellence and artistic performance elevates Kiyosato Highland beyond a mere scenic destination, offering a holistic experience for discerning travelers. Reddit

Historic Charm and Modern Comfort

Kiyosato Highland is home to historic hotels that, while aged, are meticulously maintained, offering a sense of timeless elegance. These establishments often feature woodsy settings, comfortable rooms with forest views, and well-kept gardens. The architecture blends seamlessly with the natural environment, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. Guests often comment on the homey and friendly service, which contributes significantly to the overall positive experience. This combination of historic character and attentive hospitality makes for a relaxing and memorable stay. Reddit

Beyond the main buildings, accommodations may include charming detached cottages, providing a more private retreat. These cottages offer comfortable living spaces and often boast views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Yatsugatake. The hotel grounds themselves are spacious, with ample parking and pleasant areas for strolling. The presence of private hot spring facilities further enhances the sense of relaxation and indulgence. For those seeking a blend of historical ambiance, natural beauty, and refined comfort, Kiyosato Highland's accommodations are a key part of its appeal. Reddit

You may also like