Tabelog ratingSet in a traditional house with a garden in Tamba-Sasayama, Botan Nabe Dokoro Kisaragi An (ぼたん鍋処 如月庵) is a destination for a highly specific and much-loved regional dish: botan nabe, or wild boar hotpot. What makes it unique is the restaurant's signature broth, a sweet and savory stock made with chestnut-mixed miso (栗入り味噌), ginger, and sansho pepper that you won't find anywhere else.
Reviewers almost universally praise this special broth, noting that the boar meat, which can often be gamy, is tender and flavorful, becoming even more so the longer it simmers. The generous portions of local vegetables and the satisfying udon noodles served at the end of the meal are also consistently highlighted. For lunch, the restaurant serves 'Dekansho Udon', a large bowl of udon noodles in the same signature broth. While the broth is beloved, a few diners note that its distinct sweetness might not be to everyone's taste.
Dinner is a set-menu affair, with reviewers in 2024–2026 paying around ¥7,800 per person for the popular 'Mix' set, which includes premium loin and rib meat. The 'Dekansho Udon' for lunch is typically priced between ¥1,850 and ¥2,000. Given the high quality of the ingredients, the generous portions, and the uniqueness of the experience, most visitors find the prices to be fair value. During peak season (winter), the restaurant can be very busy, leading to queues and limited parking.
- Booking: Reservations are required for dinner (after 4:00 PM) and highly recommended for lunch, especially during the peak winter season. Walk-ins may face long waits. Phone reservations are strongly encouraged.
- Getting There: From JR Sasayamaguchi Station, take the Shinki Bus for approximately 15 minutes and get off at the Kasuga Shrine-mae stop.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, AMEX, Diners) and some QR code payments (PayPay, d Barai) are accepted. Electronic money is not accepted.
- Seating: There are 114 seats, with a mix of tables and traditional tatami seating. Private rooms are available for groups.
- Children: Children of all ages are welcome, and a diaper changing area is available.
- Practical Notes: A 90-minute time limit applies to botan nabe meals. The signature hotpot and Dekansho udon are seasonal, typically available from October to March. On-site parking is free but limited.
