Kama Jin Villa Inn Shoto

A Wonderful Time at a Traditional Japanese Accommodation

"Kama Jin Villa" is a long-established restaurant, but the accommodation just opened last year. The room we stayed in was built using materials exclusively from Fukui Prefecture. Starting with the entrance's paving stones made of rare blue-green Shakudani stone, the floor frame crafted from fine wood, a simple yet elegant tokobashira (alcove post) that incorporates natural knots, and beautifully grained wood used throughout, you can feel the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. The wallpaper, sliding doors, and light shades appear to be made of Echizen Washi paper. If you're knowledgeable about Japanese architecture, you'll likely notice craftsmanship details everywhere. On the other hand, the living room with wooden flooring features antique furniture and Echizen-yaki cups for a mix of Japanese and Western styles that surprisingly harmonize to create a cozy space. The bathroom area combines elements of traditional Japanese design with a stylish modern atmosphere. Meals were served in "Kiku-no-Ma," which is also used as part of their restaurant facilities. Dinner included luxurious dishes such as beautifully presented appetizers (hassun), hamo fish soup with grilled eggplant, sashimi platters, Wakasa beef steak, steamed kinmedai fish wrapped in yuba skin, steamed eel and sticky rice wrapped in magnolia leaves—each dish deliciously prepared using premium ingredients. Breakfast featured historical and traditional items like pickled red taro stems (Suko), simmered herring once transported by Kitamaebune ships during Edo times, and local specialty takuan pickles cooked luxuriously—a menu rich in history and tradition. Suko is one item recreated under Kama Jin Villa’s supervision as part of "Murasaki Kibu Gozen," an ancient Heian aristocratic meal displayed at Murasaki Yukari no Yakata Museum. While meals were delightful overall—flavors tended to be slightly strong with generous portions—which might raise concerns about total salt intake for some guests; offering lighter-flavored or smaller portion options could appeal more to seniors or women (though I did finish everything). There are no onsen facilities here nor particularly scenic views due to its location within town; however nearby attractions include Tansu-machi Street lined with Echizen chest furniture shops; Soja Daijingu Shrine enshrining all deities from across Echizen Province; retro-styled Takefu Public Hall Memorial Museum; further afield lies Murasaki Shikibu Park featuring Heian-style gardens overlooking Mt.Hino along nostalgic Furusato walking paths—all offering opportunities for exploring Takefu’s rich history while strolling around leisurely. Despite hot weather during our stay—we appreciated thoughtful hospitality extended by staff members who provided attentive yet friendly service making us feel comfortable throughout our visit at this historic establishment turned accommodation facility. Understanding its unique characteristics allows guests seeking serene relaxation amidst exquisite Japanese architectural spaces paired alongside indulgent culinary experiences truly enjoy their time spent here!