HOTEL Kanaun Former Imperial Residence

Experience extraordinary moments in the traditional house designated as the Nationally Important Cultural Property, "Former Hanafu Imperial Residence."

KANAU is a hotel and restaurant that opened in April 2019 after renovating the nationally designated Important Cultural Property, "Kanau Former Imperial Residence." Located quietly along the clear stream of the Nyu River in Wada, northern Nishiyoshino Village, Nara Prefecture, this historic site dates back to the Jōkyū War of 1221. At that time, Fujiwara Tansan, who served as a Kumano official, responded to Emperor Gotoba's request and joined the Battle of Uji River. After their defeat, Tansan settled in Kanau instead of returning to his hometown Kumano. The current owner is the 29th generation descendant of Tansan. During the time of Hori Nobumasa (the fourth generation from Tansan), Emperor Go-Daigo was welcomed into Nobumasa's residence at Kanau after being driven out of Kyoto by Ashikaga Takauji at the end of Engen Year One (1336). This residence later served as an imperial palace for Emperors Go-Murakami, Chokei, and Go-Kameyama during Southern Court history. Today it welcomes you as Hotel & Restaurant KANAU. The gate designated as an Important Cultural Property features a plaque inscribed with "Imperial Residence" by Yoshimura Torataro from Tenchu-gumi. Next to this gate stands an Edo-period row house building used for accommodation. While its exterior remains unchanged from that era, its interior has been modernized for your comfort. Each room includes a piano available for free use—even overnight playing is allowed! Pets such as dogs are welcome to stay with you; there’s even an on-site dog run equipped with night lighting for added enjoyment. Although pets cannot enter inside our restaurant area itself—on our deck terrace overlooking riverside views—you can dine alongside your furry friends! Additionally roaming sheep provide opportunities playful interaction nearby too! Mochi-making experiences cost ¥6600 per person offering unique cultural fun! A variety activities await guests including rafting/canyoning adventures down Yoshino River trekking snowshoeing winter mountains tree-climbing guided tours plus numerous golf courses located close-by vicinity! Just one-and-a-half hours drive away Osaka city center lies KANAU Former Imperial Residence where endless entertainment awaits visitors seeking easy access unforgettable experiences alike!