1 The Grace of Décor

The restaurant features countless precious artworks and furnishings, including a powerful dragon ceiling painting by Senou Tennen, an Okayama-born Japanese painting master; folding screens by Edo period Genroku-era (1688-1704) artist Kano Tamenobu; hanging scrolls from Kennin-ji Temple expressing Zen teachings; ornately decorated wooden palace braziers; traditional Okayama crafts such as Ujo-bori trays and ancient Bizen pottery. Enjoy this luxurious moment experiencing Japanese traditional culture and art alongside your meal.

2 The Grace of Cuisine

Horie Kazufumi, owner and chef of Arate Saryo, crafts exquisite dishes ranging from seasonal platters, soups featuring the rich umami and aroma of first broth made with kombu and aged bonito flakes, steamed sea bream, sashimi of Spanish mackerel, skipjack tuna, and olive-fed yellowtail, to premium sashimi and local tempura. His latest project involves recreating historical dishes of Okayama feudal lords - thoroughly researching historical documents and skillfully adapting them for modern palates while honoring traditional techniques. This dedication to culinary excellence defines Arate Saryo's cuisine.

3 The Grace of Architecture

The current building recreates the Arate residence of Iki Sanensai, a senior retainer and tea master to the Okayama feudal lord. Built in sukiya style embodying Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetics, it preserves original features including lanterns and some fixtures. Notable rooms include the Rinsen-tei, where the present Emperor Emeritus once stayed as Crown Prince, and the Kiku room featuring a musha-kakushi (warrior's hiding space) where vassals would guard their lord.

4 The Grace of Tradition

The Manchiku Hall has long hosted traditional Japanese cultural events, including Bicchu Kagura performances (available in Plan A) and tea ceremonies. The restaurant also contributes to preserving Okayama's cultural heritage by preparing dishes for traditional events at Okayama Korakuen.

5 The Grace of Legacy

For over 80 years, Arate Saryo has served as Okayama's premier traditional restaurant and guest house. Today, it remains a favored venue for special occasions like weddings, formal family meetings, and engagement ceremonies. Couples who held their weddings here often return to reminisce, creating memories that span generations.

6 The Grace of Performance

The venue has hosted various cultural events, including koto music performances requested by Okayama's cultural figures. With its historical atmosphere and elegant setting, it serves as an ideal stage for traditional performing arts, where even the beauty of formal kimono attire is enhanced by the surroundings.

7 The Grace of Japanese Hospitality

Our prestigious establishment has hosted imperial family members, including the Emperor Emeritus as Crown Prince and Princess Atsuko's meeting with Ikeda Takamasa of the Okayama clan. This legacy of distinguished hospitality continues today in every detail, from our seasonal décor to the precise timing of our service. This attention and respect for our guests is reflected in every aspect, from our flower arrangements and seasonal decorations to our kaiseki cuisine.