Matsunoya

松廼家

PlanA
Experiencing Ryotei's Timeless Elegance with Cultural Connoisseurs

Experience plan overview

Fourth-generation proprietress Udono Marie is dedicated to preserving and promoting ryotei culture. As part of this initiative, she invites local cultural figures with whom she has formed connections to share stories and engage in cultural exchange. The experience begins in a room displaying photographs and historical materials of notable people and cultural figures who have visited Matsunoya, where Ms. Udono explains Japanese ryotei culture and Matsunoya's history. Afterwards, guests move to another room to enjoy kaiseki cuisine featuring carefully selected ingredients from Hyogo, a treasure trove of fine foods, including Kobe beef (one of Japan's three great wagyu), local mountain vegetables, and fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea. The guest speaker is translator, interpreter, and writer Eric Matarrese*, who, like Ms. Udono, works to promote local charm and culture. Captivated by "the beauty of the Japanese language," Matarrese moved to Japan from America and currently lives in the Kansai region. He will share insights about Japan's appeal from his unique perspective, research, and experiences.
*Guest speaker subject to change.

  • icon_money
    55,000 yen
  • icon_people
    6 people or more
  • icon_time
    From 17:00 (180 mins)

Experience plan flow

  • Upon arrival at Matsunoya, enjoy a relaxing moment while savoring Japanese tea.

  • Points about Plan A

    On the second floor exhibition space, proprietress Udono explains Japanese ryotei culture and Matsunoya's history.

  • Move to another room to enjoy an 8-course kaiseki meal while engaging in discussion about Japanese culture with Eric Matarrese*.*Guest speaker subject to change. *Menu items and course composition may change with the season and ingredient availability.

Highlights and Details of Each Plan

Fourth-Generation Proprietress Dedicated to Cultural Promotion
Having studied tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and Japanese dance since childhood, she became the fourth-generation proprietress at age 24. While managing the family business, she serves as Hyogo Tourism Ambassador and regional revitalization advisor for ministries including the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Cabinet Office, contributing to discovering and promoting regional attractions. Her experience, knowledge, and refined sensibilities help preserve Matsunoya's ryotei culture. Through interaction with Ms. Udono and time spent at Matsunoya, guests can learn about not only Kobe's ryotei culture but also Hyogo's charm and rich food culture.
Japanese Culture from an Expatriate's PerspectivePlan A Only
Eric Matarrese*, who works with Ms. Udono on Ministry of Internal Affairs committees, was born in Los Angeles and came to Japan in 2011. Currently living in Kansai, he runs "anaguma bunko," publishing small press materials and writing articles about his experiences. What aspects of Japanese cultural charm appeal to a foreign resident who covers local culture? He offers fresh perspectives on Japanese culture.
*Guest speaker subject to change.
Kaiseki Cuisine Featuring Five Provinces of Hyogo
Hyogo comprises five regions: Settsu, Harima, Awaji, Tajima, and Tamba, each with unique climates and abundant ingredients. The menu features select ingredients like natural Akashi sea bream, kinmedai (splendid alfonsino), Awaji green tiger prawn, local vegetables, matsutake mushrooms, and winter Kasumi crab from the Japan Sea. Chefs carefully prepare these using traditional Japanese techniques in a well-paced course. Both Plans A and B include premium Kobe beef steak, perfectly cooked to seal in flavors.
Price (tax incl.)
55,000 yen
Minimum Number of Guests Required
6 people or more
Time Required
From 17:00 (180 mins)
Cancellation Policy
the day before reservation: 50%; On the day of reservation: 100%
What to Bring/Clothing
None
Payment Methods
Pay in advance via credit card
VISA, MASTER, AMEX, DC, JCB, Diners
Participation Conditions
On weekdays only, children under 6 are not permitted.
No age restrictions on Saturdays/Sundays.
Reservation Deadline
1 month in advance
Notes/Disclaimers
  • The menu and number of dishes will change depending on the season.
  • The experience may be canceled or the content may change due to unavoidable circumstances.
  • If you cancel on the day without notice, you will be charged 100% of the reserved
    fees.
  • A cancellation fee will also be charged for cancellations of reservations for large groups.
Other things to note
  • Children’s meals available for 3,500 yen with advance reservation.
  • Drinks during meals paid on site.
Inquiry about Plan A