Originally a 19th-century summerhouse and the property of industrialist Baron Shozo Kawasaki, the resort is a unique luxury accommodation. Reimagined to fit Meiji-era, Surian exhibits a Westernised architecture that still oozes authentic Japanese elegance. In true Japanese style, rooms are entered through a simple sliding door and shoes are laid down at the entrance. Fitted with soft Western-style beds for away-from-home comfort, each room is modelled on the traditional Ryokan inn (think mat flooring, black-coated furnishings, shoji screens and cedar-wood walls). Original artworks are punctuated throughout, featuring beautiful calligraphy by Masayoshi Matsukata.

Essential to Japanese design, enjoy the indoor-outdoor feel of exposed timber beams and full-length windows whilst dining at Kyo-Suiran. Experiment with washoku cuisine (opt for the pickled cucumbers) prepared with French techniques. For something more informal, Café Hassui overlooks the Katsuri river and offers a unqiue Japanese take on afternoon tea (think Japanese rice balls and dainty wagashi sweets).