Hi there

I'm travelling to Japan for the second time, 10 days starting in Tokyo for 6 nights, then to Kyoto and flying out of Osaka. Sometime in days 7-9 (19-21 June) I would love to stay at a traditional Ryokan for the first time.

The Hiiragiya Bekkan is selling for 32,000JPY all up for a one night stay, which seems outstanding value for Kyoto and seems to be well recommended here and elsewhere. However Kyoto Ryokans are generally said to be overpriced, and we are definitely willing to make a trip especially for our Ryokan stay, if that will secure a significantly better experience for 15,000 JPY/person. I've read all the threads on this here a few times each (seriously), but most of the recommendations were either vague or in the 25,000JPY/person range which would be hard to stretch to. A few specific recommendations would be so so so appreciated!!!

Here's what I'm looking for:
- Anywhere within a couple hours train travel of Tokyo or Kyoto
- ~15,000 JPY/pp or under
- The quality of the meals is a priority as I'm a bit of a foodie
- My partner loves views so that and/or a scenic train trip would be a plus

As a side note, does anyone have a direct comparison of the Hiiragiya Bekkan and Kikokuso? Secondly, does anyone know how close the quality of the food in Hiiragiya Bekkan is to Hiiragiya itself?

Thank you very much!