タケマシュラン
Summer resort by the cool stream in Kyoto, Kawadoko in Kibune. Known as "kawayuka" in Kamogawa, it is pronounced as "kawadoko" in Kibune. Typically, it is seen as an event until the end of summer, but in recent years, due to the continued hot weather, some shops are still open in October. We made a reservation at the long-established "Kibune Nakayoshi". They offer a convenient pick-up service by microbus from Kokusai Kaikan Station or Kibuneguchi Station. It is quite a challenging walk of about 40 minutes uphill from Kibuneguchi Station, and driving can be difficult due to the narrow road and challenging maneuvering. When visiting Kibune, it is recommended to use the pick-up service provided by a ryokan like ours. Wow! What a fantastic setting! Being surrounded by greenery and dining right above the river, it is always cool and refreshing. Despite some spots where sunlight shines through, the staff cleverly create shading, making it comfortable. Children started playing in the Kibune River barefoot. We ordered the "Local Chicken Sukiyaki Course", priced at 11,200 yen. The meal started with a pre-appetizer of matcha sesame tofu. The taste was average, but it added to the Kyoto experience. The sashimi included tuna, sea bream, and yuba. While we didn't have high expectations for the food, the sea bream was pleasantly aged with rich flavor, exceeding our imagination. Grilled ayu with salt was served piping hot, surprising us with its freshness. The highlight was the famous "Local Chicken Sukiyaki". The landlady began grilling the chicken skin side down in an iron pot, skillfully arranging vegetables. The chicken and vegetables started to simmer. The local chicken is said to be top-quality, and this one pot allows you to enjoy a variety of ingredients typically found in yakitori restaurants. In addition to the meat, there was a good selection of offal, which was delightful. The healthy egg was mixed in and tasted amazing. The chicken meat was incredibly delicious, akin to the quality of "Robata Yaki Yamaroku", firm and powerful with a rich flavor that deepens with each bite. The meal was accompanied by pickles with a rich flavor, making it hard to stop eating. Of course, you can have unlimited rice refills. After the meal, we finished with some refreshing fruit while gazing at the river. Thank you for the feast. As mentioned earlier, the main dish is the setting, and the food was expected to be like Disneyland, but the chicken dishes were truly outstanding. After dining, we strolled around Kibune Shrine and even mustered the energy for a mini-hike to Kurama Temple. While Kyoto city remains hot, now might be the best season in the Kibune area. Let's make the most of the lingering summer heat and enjoy the long summer to the fullest.