Irori Sanzoku Kuga

Irori Sanzoku Kuga Branch is a buzzworthy dining spot where you can rediscover traditional Japanese culture and the spirit of Japan with your own senses. The moment you step onto the property, it feels like entering another world—as if you’ve wandered into a Japanese folktale. The atmosphere changes with the seasons and even by area within the grounds: enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and in winter, kotatsu seats warmed with briquettes—an especially rare way to dine around an irori hearth in modern times. On the grounds is “Musubi Inari Shrine,” a branch of Taikodani Inari Shrine in Tsuwano, said to bring blessings for good relationships and matchmaking. Signature dishes include “Sanzoku-yaki,” young chicken grilled crisp over charcoal; “Sanzoku Musubi,” nostalgic rice balls; and “Sanzoku Udon,” the house’s proud udon made with carefully crafted dashi broth. The top menu item is the “Sumeragi Beef” selection, featuring prized wagyu said to inherit the genetics of Mishima cattle, a natural monument often described as a root of Japanese beef—known for beautiful marbling and concentrated umami. Access to Irori Sanzoku Kuga Branch: by public transportation, take the JR Iwatoku Line to “Kinmeiji Station,” then walk about 9 minutes. By bus, use Bocho Kotsu (Takamori to Iwakuni Station route), get off at “Noguchitoge” bus stop, then walk about 2 minutes. By car, exit the Sanyo Expressway at “Kuga IC” and travel about 2.7 km.