GRAX PREMIUM CAMP RESORT Kyoto Rurikei

Since it was right after a severe cold wave, we went glamping with snow still on the ground. After checking in at 2:00 PM, we enjoyed board games and darts at the Woodman Lounge until dinner. Based on other guests’ Reviews, we ate dinner early and then headed to the illuminations (walking was tough because of the snow). After that, we went to Ruri-yu, enjoyed the hot stone sauna and Onsen, then relaxed at the Lantern Terrace reading a book. There are two toilet/washroom areas within the GRAX area (both air-conditioned), but they were a bit far from our dome (still relatively close), and it was difficult to get there because the snowy ground was slippery. At night it started raining heavily; the sound of rain kept us awake. It was also disappointing that melted snow and rainwater dripped from above near the entrance roof, so we got wet and cold every time we went in and out. After checkout, we relaxed at Ruri-yu again and then had lunch at Food Park before heading home. If the weather had been better and the ground not so slippery, we would have liked to do more—so next time I’d love to visit in a warmer season. At check-in, the staff member spoke very fast, so it would be helpful if they could speak a little more slowly. Also, I wish there were pockets in Ruri-yu’s loungewear to hold a card.

Including stays at Hanareya Hana Akari, this was our 6th visit to Rurikei and the 3rd this year. This time, we stayed in Cabin Lumiere for the first time with two adults and one preschooler. Previously, we stayed in a dome-shaped accommodation which was very comfortable, so we were concerned that this room might be smaller. However, it was spacious enough for three people. We also felt reassured as there were many other families with children around.It was our first time using Ruri-yu after its renovation, and our child was thrilled with the newly added heated pool and play facilities. Additionally, having dining options near the pool area was very convenient.I’m writing this to provide some tips for those planning to visit GRAX:- It’s better to check in early and start preparing dinner sooner rather than later. BBQ preparation takes more time than expected. Also, as it gets dark quickly and temperatures drop sharply outside of summer months, I recommend checking in early and picking up your dinner earlier (we learned this from a mistake during our first visit). For reference: This time we checked in at 2 PM, started preparing dinner at 3 PM, finished eating by 5 PM, then moved on to enjoy the onsen or indoor play facilities.- Bring insect repellent unless you’re visiting during mid-winter. Although it felt slightly chilly during autumn evenings when we visited, there were still quite a few insects before sunset. We even encountered bees near our cabin which startled us a bit! We brought both spray-on repellents for personal use and stationary repellents just in case—this seemed sufficient protection overall but if you’re particularly sensitive or dislike bugs entirely please take extra precautions.Thank you again for another wonderful stay! We're looking forward to staying at Hana Akari again this December!