Tired of Tokyo’s relentless summer heat? Just a couple of hours away lies a secret retreat so tranquil, it feels like you’ve slipped into another era. Nestled deep in the Akaishi Mountains, also known as the Minami-Arupusu (Southern Alps), sits Akaishi Onsen Ryokan—a rare gem where nature, nostalgia, and craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony.
What sets Akaishi Onsen apart isn’t just its location—though that alone is worth the journey. This ryokan was built, quite literally, by the hands of its 80+ year-old owner. From the structure to the hand-carved rotenburo (outdoor bath), the spirit of dedication is visible in every beam and stone.
The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by okami-san, who embodies Japan’s omotenashi—that warm, genuine hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home.
♨️ The Rotenburo: Healing Waters in the Forest
Akaishi Onsen’s name comes from the iron-rich red stones that tint both its landscape and its onsen. The outdoor bath is stained with these mineral deposits, creating a warm, earthy aesthetic that feels straight out of a Ghibli dream. It’s also classified as a 含鉄泉 (iron spring)—great for circulation and deep muscle relaxation.
This isn’t just a bath. It’s shinrinyoku—forest bathing for the soul.
The largest rotenburo operates as a konyoku (mixed-gender bath) most of the day, with limited women-only hours. For more privacy, there’s also a smaller women-only outdoor bath.
🛏 Our Stay: Simple Comfort and Soulful Stories
Our room had a classic tatami layout with a square chabudai—like a kotatsu without the heater. After checking in, we took a short forest trail right behind the ryokan to a hidden waterfall. Our dog absolutely loved it—this spot is perfect for travelers with pets and a love for mini-adventures.
Dinner and breakfast were hearty inaka ryōri—home-style mountain meals made with care, if not finesse. If I visit again, I’d definitely try their BBQ plan.
🧘♂️ The Magic of Stillness
Akaishi Onsen isn’t for everyone. It’s remote, rustic, and—yes—home to a few bugs. But it’s also quiet, sincere, and spiritually rich. During our stay, the owner shared a story about a raccoon dog that once visited the property, and how he crafts new woodwork each year to keep the space evolving.
To top it off, we ended our visit with a short hike to a hidden waterfall behind the ryokan and to Himuro Shrine, home to a 1,200-year-old sugi cedar—the very wood used in the ryokan’s bathhouse. The connection between shrine and spring felt beautifully symbolic.
🎵 An Enka Farewell
As we drove back to Tokyo, we listened to a CD of the owner’s own enka song—a heartfelt ballad about the onsen he spent his life creating. I can’t imagine a better sendoff.
🚗 Getting There
Location: Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
Access: ~2.5 hours by car from Tokyo (via Chūō Expressway)
Public Transit: Reachable via JR Minobu Line + taxi, but car is highly recommended
Note: Narrow mountain roads—drive carefully, especially in winter
📺 Watch the Full Experience
For a closer look at the rotenburo, the hidden waterfall trail, and our full ryokan stay, watch the full video here:
Akaishi Onsen Ryokan isn’t a luxury stay—it’s a soulful one. Perfect for seasoned Japan travelers, onsen lovers, or anyone craving reconnection with nature. Whether you're escaping the heat or just want to experience the heartbeat of old Japan, this is a place that stays with you.
Let me know in the comments:
Would you stay here? Or do you prefer a more polished ryokan experience?
Looking for an authentic onsen ryokan experience close to Tokyo, but without the tourist crowds of Hakone?
Let me introduce you to Fujiya Ryokan (富士屋旅館) — a historic hot spring inn in Yugawara, Kanagawa, that’s quietly become one of my all-time favorite getaways.
🏯 A Ryokan Steeped in History
Established in 1876, Fujiya Ryokan is one of Yugawara’s oldest traditional inns. The current main building, constructed in 1923, is a beautifully preserved Taisho-era wooden structure and is officially registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. Staying here feels like stepping back in time — but with all the comforts of a modern stay.
I visited with my mother and grandmother in late summer, and it turned out to be the perfect multi-generational escape. From the timeless architecture to the soft rustle of yukata in the halls, everything about Fujiya Ryokan speaks to the kind of understated luxury that Japan does so well.
♨️ Onsen for Mind and Body
Fujiya’s onsen baths are gender-separated and indoor, but don’t let that fool you — the atmosphere is just as soothing as any open-air rotenburo. With natural hot spring water drawn from Yugawara’s renowned sources, the baths offer a skin-softening experience in a calming, wood-framed space that feels timeless.
🍽️ Kaiseki with a Twist: Unagi Specialties
One of Fujiya Ryokan’s biggest surprises was the food. Dinner is served at their restaurant Hyōrokutei (瓢六亭) and features beautifully curated kaiseki cuisine made from seasonal ingredients.
Their unagi (eel), however, is what sets them apart. Served Kansai-style—grilled without steaming—it arrives crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of smoky, savory depth. It’s presented in a traditional donabe (clay pot) over rice, making the experience even more memorable.
🌸 Perfect for a Peaceful Stay — Without the Hakone Prices
Yugawara often flies under the radar, sitting just before the more famous onsen resort of Hakone. But locals in the know often choose Yugawara instead. Why?
It’s less crowded,
Often more affordable, and
Home to hidden ryokan gems like Fujiya.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a quiet retreat, or a family spanning generations like mine, this ryokan offers something rare: a chance to slow down and soak in Japan’s natural and cultural beauty without distraction.
Tucked away in the sacred heartland of Nara, just a 3-minute walk from Miwa Station, lies a place where time slows down and history whispers from the mountains: Taishoro Ryokan. I recently had the chance to spend a night at this fourth-generation, family-run ryori ryokan—and I captured the experience in my latest video:
🎥 Watch the full video here:
Taishoro isn’t just a ryokan—it’s a gateway to Japan’s spiritual roots. Located near Ōmiwa Shrine, believed to be the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan and the birthplace of both sake and sumo, this ryokan offers an unmatched blend of cultural depth, tranquility, and culinary excellence.
What Makes Taishoro Special?
🛏️ Tranquil Rooms with Garden Views: Spacious tatami rooms open out to a serene inner garden, making it the perfect setting for reflection or relaxation.
🍱 A Feast for the Soul: As a ryori ryokan, Taishoro places immense care into its food. The dinner I enjoyed was one of the highlights of the stay—local, seasonal, and beautifully presented. Don’t miss the pink somen noodles, a regional delicacy tied to Nara’s rich culinary heritage.
♨️ Beautifully Renovated Bath Area: Their shared bath features a gorgeous brick mural depicting a nearby shrine, blending modern comfort with historical reverence.
🙋♂️ Warm, English-Speaking Hosts: Mr. Uda, who runs the ryokan, greeted me personally and offered tips on the surrounding sacred hiking trails—including the Yamanobe Trail.
Why You Should Visit
Taishoro is ideal for solo travelers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the crowds of Kyoto or Nara City. It’s not about luxury in the Western sense—it’s about quiet beauty, heartfelt hospitality, and reconnecting with an older Japan.
There are a few practical notes to keep in mind:
💴 In-house charges (like dinner and drinks) are cash only
🚿 Toilets and showers are shared, but kept spotless
🌄 There are no blackout curtains, so pack an eye mask if you’re light-sensitive
🦟 Mosquitoes may be around in the warmer months—bring repellent just in case!
Final Thoughts
If you're seeking a deeply authentic experience with soul-stirring food and rich cultural connections, Taishoro is a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left. It’s a rare gem where hospitality, history, and home-cooked perfection come together in harmony.
📍Location: Taishoro Ryokan, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture
Experience Japan's most unique traditional inns, from mystical mountain retreats to seaside cave baths
Japan's ryokans offer more than just accommodation – they're gateways to experiencing authentic Japanese culture, history, and hospitality. While many travelers stick to well-known luxury ryokans, some of the most memorable experiences await at Japan's quirkiest traditional inns.
After years of exploring Japan's hidden corners, I've discovered ryokans that feel almost mythical in their uniqueness. These aren't your typical Instagram-perfect stays – they're places with soul, history, and stories that will stay with you long after you return home.
Watch the full video tour of these incredible ryokans here – and read on for detailed information, booking tips, and insider secrets!
1. Kita Onsen Ryokan (北温泉旅館) – A Journey Back in Time
Location: Tochigi Prefecture, Nasu Mountains Established: Edo Period (1603-1868) What Makes It Special: Unchanged for centuries, with mysterious Tengu carvings
Stepping into Kita Onsen Ryokan feels like discovering a secret that's been hidden in the mountains for generations. This isn't a place that's been restored or modernized – it's genuinely preserved from another era.
The wooden corridors creak under your feet with centuries of stories. Every beam is darkened from decades of mineral-rich steam, and the sulfur-laden air carries whispers of the thousands of travelers who've sought healing in these waters.
The Legendary Tengu Baths
What sets Kita Onsen apart are the mysterious Tengu carvings that watch over the bathing areas. These legendary mountain spirits, with their long noses and fierce expressions, are said to protect the sacred waters. Local legend claims that bathing under their gaze brings good fortune and protection during mountain travels.
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit: Winter months for the most atmospheric experience
Accommodation: Traditional tatami rooms, some with irori (sunken hearths)
Waters: Sulfur-rich springs believed to help with skin conditions and joint pain
Booking: Advance reservations essential, especially for rooms with hearths
Pro Tip: Bring an eye mask! This place gets light in the morning. Earplugs will come in handy on days when it rains.
2. Okawaso (大川荘) – Where Anime Dreams Come to Life
Location: Aizu, Fukushima Prefecture Established: Over 300 years ago What Makes It Special: A river flows through the building; resembles scenes from Demon Slayer Book your stayhere
An Architectural Marvel
Okawaso Ryokan represents the pinnacle of traditional Japanese inn design. The most striking feature? An actual river flows underneath and through parts of the building, creating a constant, soothing soundtrack of flowing water.
The grand open hall, supported by massive wooden pillars, hosts nightly shamisen performances that echo through the space like something from a Studio Ghibli film. Many visitors comment that it resembles scenes from popular anime, particularly Demon Slayer – and they're not wrong.
Culinary Excellence
The seasonal kaiseki dinner at Okawaso is legendary. Each dish represents the current season in Fukushima, with ingredients sourced within a 20-mile radius. The presentation is as much art as it is cuisine, with each course telling part of the region's story.
Cultural Experiences
Evening shamisen performances in the main hall
Seasonal festivals and local cultural events
Guided walks through historic Aizu
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for fall colors
Accommodation: Riverside rooms offer the best experience
Special Features: Multiple indoor and outdoor baths, some overlooking the river
Cultural Programs: Traditional performances most evenings
3. Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen (ランプの宿 青荷温泉) – The Ultimate Digital Detox
Location: Aomori Prefecture, deep in the mountains Established: Traditional mountain lodge style What Makes It Special: No electricity, no Wi-Fi, only oil lamps Book your stayhere
Disconnecting to Reconnect
In our hyperconnected world, Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen offers something increasingly rare: complete digital silence. There's no phone signal, no Wi-Fi, and no electricity in guest areas. The only illumination comes from hundreds of oil lamps that are lit each evening at dusk.
The Transformation Process
First-time guests often experience what staff call "digital withdrawal" – the constant urge to check phones that no longer work. But by the second day, something remarkable happens. Conversations become deeper, sleep becomes more restful, and the simple pleasure of reading by lamplight returns.
Natural Hot Springs
The outdoor baths are particularly magical in winter, when you can soak in hot mineral water while snowflakes melt on your face and a canopy of stars shines overhead – stars you can actually see without light pollution.
What to Expect
Evening: Oil lamps lit throughout the ryokan as darkness falls
Dinner: Multi-course mountain cuisine served by lamplight
Morning: Wake naturally with sunrise, no alarm clocks needed
Practical Information
Access: Requires advance arrangement for transportation from nearest station
Packing: Bring books, journals, and analog entertainment
Season: Open year-round, but winter offers the most dramatic experience
Duration: Minimum 2-night stay recommended for full detox experience
4. Isokano Yuyado Ubarakan (磯香の湯宿 鵜原館) – Bathing in a Sea Cave
Location: Chiba Prefecture, Pacific Coast Established: Built into natural coastal cave What Makes It Special: Onsen inside a seaside cave with crashing waves
Ubarakan offers an experience found nowhere else in Japan: bathing in hot springs inside a natural sea cave. As you soak in the mineral-rich waters, Pacific waves crash against the rocks just meters away, occasionally sending salty spray that mingles with the hot steam.
Historical Significance
During World War II, this same cave served as a shelter for local villagers during air raids. The current owner's family has maintained detailed records of those who sought refuge here, adding profound historical depth to your stay.
The Cave Bath Experience
The cave bath is naturally formed from centuries of wave action. The mineral content is incredibly high due to the unique combination of hot spring water and sea spray. Local beliefs hold that these waters have healing properties for respiratory conditions and skin ailments.
Seasonal Variations
Summer: Perfect temperature contrast between hot springs and cool sea breeze
Winter: Dramatic waves and storm watching from the safety of the warm bath
Full Moon: Moonlight reflecting on the waves creates an almost mystical atmosphere
Practical Information
Tide Times: Check local tide schedules for the most dramatic wave action
Safety: Bath access may be limited during severe weather
Cuisine: Specializes in ultra-fresh seafood, including cave-steamed abalone
Reservations: Book well in advance, especially for oceanfront rooms
5. Jano-yu Onsen Takarasou (蛇の湯温泉 たから荘) – A Fairytale Farmhouse
Location: Gunma Prefecture, 2 hours from Tokyo Established: 18 generations of family ownership What Makes It Special: Traditional thatched roof and white snake legend
Takarasou represents something increasingly rare in modern Japan: an authentic thatched-roof ryokan maintained by the same family for 18 generations. The current "kayabuki" roof was hand-crafted by master thatchers and requires replacement every 15-20 years.
The White Snake Legend
The name "Jano-yu" (Snake Hot Spring) comes from an ancient legend. A wounded samurai, lost in the mountains, followed a white snake to these healing waters. Today, guests occasionally report white snake sightings in the garden – considered extremely auspicious in Japanese folklore.
Farm-to-Table Cuisine
Nearly everything served at Takarasou is grown within sight of the ryokan. Meals follow the traditional "ichiju-sansai" style (one soup, three dishes) and change completely with the seasons. The family maintains traditional preservation methods, including their own miso and pickles.
Accessibility from Tokyo
What makes Takarasou special is that you don't need to journey to remote mountains for an authentic experience. This slice of old Japan is just two hours from Tokyo Station by train, making it perfect for travelers with limited time.
Practical Information
Transportation: Direct train from Tokyo to nearby station, then short taxi ride
Best Seasons: Spring for mountain vegetables, autumn for harvest cuisine
Activities: Traditional farming experiences, mountain hiking, shrine visits
Cultural Value: Recognized as tangible cultural property by local government
Planning Your Quirky Ryokan Adventure
Booking Tips
Reserve Early: These unique ryokans have limited rooms and book up quickly
Language: Basic Japanese phrases helpful but not essential
Dietary Restrictions: Inform ryokans in advance of any food allergies or preferences
Transportation: Most require coordination for pickup from nearest train stations
What to Pack
Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring mountain paths and historic areas
Camera: But be respectful of no-photo areas, especially in baths
Open Mind: Each ryokan has its own customs and rhythms
Cash: Many traditional ryokans prefer cash payment
Cultural Etiquette
Bath Etiquette: Always wash thoroughly before entering hot springs
Quiet Hours: Most ryokans observe early evening quiet periods
Meal Times: Dinner and breakfast are typically served at set times
Respect: These are often family-run businesses with deep cultural significance
Budget Considerations
Prices vary significantly based on season, room type, and included meals:
Budget Option: Takarasou (closest to Tokyo, family-run)
Mid-Range: Kita Onsen and Lamp no Yado (authentic experiences)
Premium: Okawaso and Ubarakan (unique features and locations)
Creating Lasting Memories
These five quirky ryokans represent more than just accommodation – they're cultural experiences that connect you with Japan's living history. Whether you're soaking in a seaside cave, bathing under the protection of mountain spirits, or disconnecting completely from the digital world, each offers something you simply won't find in standard hotels.
The beauty of quirky ryokans lies not in luxury amenities or perfect service, but in their authenticity and the stories they preserve. They remind us that travel is about more than checking destinations off a list – it's about experiencing places that change how we see the world.
Ready to experience these incredible ryokans for yourself? Watch my full video tour [here] for detailed footage of each location, and don't forget to subscribe for more hidden gems of Japan!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to speak Japanese to stay at these ryokans?
A: While basic Japanese is helpful, most ryokans are accustomed to international guests. Key phrases and gestures go a long way, and staff are usually very patient and helpful.
Q: Are these ryokans suitable for families with children?
A: Most welcome children, but check individual policies. Some, like Lamp no Yado, might be better suited for older children who can appreciate the unique experience.
Q: What's the difference between these and luxury ryokans?
A: Luxury ryokans focus on premium amenities and service. These quirky options prioritize authenticity, history, and unique experiences over modern conveniences.
Q: Can I visit just for the day baths?
A: Some offer day-use options, but the full experience really requires an overnight stay to appreciate the atmosphere and traditional rhythms.
Q: What's the best time of year to visit?
A: Each has its charm in different seasons. Winter offers the most atmospheric experiences, while spring and autumn provide beautiful natural settings.
Have you stayed at any of these incredible ryokans? Share your experiences in the comments below! For more hidden gems and authentic Japanese experiences, subscribe to Onsen with Hansen on YouTube and follow my Japan adventures.
Hidden in the quiet streets of Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture, stands a building that whispers stories from another time—Shin Mutsu Ryokan (新むつ旅館). Once a vibrant hub of the Meiji-era, this historical ryokan is no longer in operation, but its timeless charm and cultural legacy continue to captivate those who pass by.
On my recent journey through northern Japan, I had the chance to visit this remarkable architectural gem. Although the ryokan is now closed and not open for public tours, its beautiful wooden structure and curved roof still preserve the spirit of its past.
As I admired the exterior, something special happened—one of the local neighbors kindly stopped to chat and shared vintage photographs and personal memories of the ryokan’s glory days. It was an unforgettable moment that brought the story of this place to life in a way no guidebook ever could.
In my latest video, I invite you to step back in time with me and explore:
The history of Shin Mutsu Ryokan, from its origins as a Meiji-era pleasure house to its later days as a cultural inn.
The unique architecture that has earned it a place as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
An encounter with local artist Kiyotaka Osawa, whose presence added even more depth to the story.
A touching reminder of why places like this still matter in a rapidly modernizing world.
Whether you’re a lover of Japanese history, ryokan culture, or hidden gems off the beaten path, this short video is a tribute to a bygone era—and a quiet reminder to cherish what remains.
🧳 Join me on this journey through Japan’s timeless traditions—one ryokan at a time. Let’s continue to relax, rejuvenate, and rediscover Japan together.
If you love traditional ryokan, natural hot springs, and Japan’s rich history, then Kowakubi Onsen Shōhōen (強首温泉 樅峰苑) is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss! Nestled in the snowy landscapes of Akita Prefecture, this 100-year-old family-run ryokan offers an unforgettable stay, blending stunning architecture, authentic hospitality, and a private outdoor onsen perfect for winter travel.
In my latest video, I take you on a journey to this incredible heritage ryokan, where I experienced a night in a former mansion, soaked in an untouched gensen kakenagashi (源泉掛け流し) hot spring, and enjoyed a taste of local Akita cuisine. Watch the full video here: 👇
Unlike ryokans built specifically for travelers, Shōhōen was originally a luxurious private home for a wealthy family. Walking through its corridors feels like stepping back in time—intricate wooden architecture, a grand Rokumeikan-style staircase, and an impressive corridor made from a single piece of Akita cedar. It’s no wonder that this ryokan is a registered heritage property in Japan!
What sets it apart even further is the passion of the family running it. They are actively involved in preserving Japan’s ryokan culture and historical buildings, ensuring that places like Shōhōen remain for future generations. If you appreciate history and traditional Japanese aesthetics, this place is a dream come true.
The Onsen: A Hidden Treasure Recently Discovered
One of the highlights of my stay was the outdoor private-use onsen. The hot spring was only recently discovered, making it one of the newer additions to Japan’s extensive onsen culture. However, its water quality is excellent, flowing directly from the source (gensen kakenagashi), meaning it’s completely natural and untreated.
💧 Onsen Benefits: ✔️ Helps improve circulation and muscle relaxation ✔️ Rich in minerals that promote healthy skin ✔️ The perfect way to unwind in the snow ❄️♨️
With the snow falling around me as I soaked in the steaming waters, it was a truly magical experience that I won’t forget.
A Simple Yet Authentic Stay
Since this ryokan was originally a private residence, the accommodations are simple yet traditional. I stayed in a small tatami mat room—perfect for solo travelers looking for a quiet, authentic stay. While it doesn’t have the ultra-modern amenities of a high-end ryokan, that’s part of its charm! If you’ve ever wondered what living in a traditional Japanese home felt like, this is it.
At dinner, I enjoyed local Akita cuisine, carefully prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Every dish was delicious, though I have to admit—I was too busy enjoying the moment to take note of all the details! 😉
Who Should Stay Here?
🔹 Intermediate or advanced Japan travelers who love traditional stays 🔹 Those who appreciate history, architecture, and cultural preservation 🔹 Onsen lovers looking for a private, natural hot spring experience 🔹 Travelers who enjoy local cuisine and family-run ryokans 🔹 People who don’t mind staying somewhere slightly off the beaten path
Since this ryokan is in a rural area, having a car makes access easier, but it’s well worth the journey!
📍 Location: Akita, Japan 🇯🇵 🚗 Best way to get there: Driving is recommended, but you can also check train & bus options.
Watch the Full Experience on YouTube!
If you want to see Kowakubi Onsen Shōhōen in all its historical beauty, check out my full video where I take you through the entire stay—from arrival to exploring the ryokan, soaking in the onsen, and experiencing the family’s incredible hospitality.
Are you looking for a unique ryokan experience that takes you beyond the usual tourist routes in Japan? In this post, I’ll take you on a three-day adventure across three prefectures, where I stayed at three incredible heritage ryokans—each with its own charm, history, and relaxing onsen.
From the Edo-period elegance of Kurashiki, to the modernized cultural heritage ryokan in Kotohira, and the tranquil Meiji-era onsen retreat in Hyogo, this journey is a perfect way to experience traditional Japan while escaping the crowds.
↓↓↓ Full Video Here ↓↓↓
Day 1: Ryori Ryokan Tsurugata – Kurashiki, Okayama
A Step Back in Time
My ryokan adventure began in Kurashiki, Okayama, a city known for its beautifully preserved Bikan Historical Quarter. Nestled in the heart of this Edo-period district is Ryori Ryokan Tsurugata (料理旅館 鶴形)—one of the oldest buildings in the area, originally built in 1744.
This ryokan was once an oil merchant’s establishment, giving it a deep historical connection to Kurashiki’s commercial past. Today, it has been beautifully maintained, allowing guests to stay in an authentic Edo-period building.
Getting There
🚄 From Osaka: Take the Shinkansen to Okayama Station, then transfer to a local line for Kurashiki Station. From there, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the ryokan.
What Makes This Ryokan Special?
✅ Only 11 rooms for a quiet, intimate stay ✅ Beautiful tatami rooms with views of the inner garden ✅ Located right in the Bikan Historical Quarter for easy sightseeing
Must-Do: Explore Kurashiki by Rickshaw
One of the best ways to experience Kurashiki’s historical charm is by taking a rickshaw tour. It’s a relaxing way to admire the white-walled storehouses, traditional wooden buildings, and picturesque canals.
Dinner: A Kaiseki Experience in Bento Form
As the name "Ryori Ryokan" suggests, Tsurugata takes pride in its cuisine. Dinner is served in beautiful bento-style boxes, featuring fresh Setouchi seafood and seasonal vegetables. Their signature tai chazuke (sea bream rice with tea) was the highlight of the meal!
Day 2: Shikishimakan – Kotohira Onsen, Kagawa
A Cultural Heritage Ryokan with Modern Comforts
The second stop on my ryokan-hopping journey took me to Kotohira Onsen in Kagawa Prefecture, home to the famous Kotohira Shrine (金刀比羅宮). I stayed at Shikishimakan (御宿 敷島館), a ryokan with a 400-year history, designated as a cultural heritage site and reopened in 2019 with modern upgrades.
Getting There
🚄 From Kurashiki: Take a train to JR Kotohira Station. The ryokan is just a 5-minute walk from the station, conveniently located along the shrine’s approach.
What Makes This Ryokan Special?
✅ Originally built during the Edo period, now beautifully restored ✅ Located on the main path to Kotohira Shrine ✅ Perfect for first-time ryokan guests, as all rooms are Western-style
Private Baths & Relaxation
Instead of a large open-air bath, Shikishimakan offers four private onsen baths, each with a distinct character. These baths are first-come, first-served, making it a great option for couples or families looking for privacy.
Dinner: A Customizable Feast
Unlike most ryokans, where kaiseki meals follow a fixed menu, Shikishimakan offers a variety of small dishes alongside the main course. This makes for an exciting and diverse dining experience, especially for those wanting to try different flavors.
A Great Choice for Ryokan Beginners
Since Shikishimakan offers Western-style rooms, you won’t experience traditional Nakai-san (room attendant) service, making it a comfortable choice for those new to ryokans.
Day 3: Shioda Onsen Kamiyama Ryokan – Hyogo
A Hidden Hot Spring Retreat in the Forest
For the final night of my ryokan adventure, I traveled to Hyogo Prefecture to stay at Shioda Onsen Kamiyama Ryokan (塩田温泉 上山旅館). Founded in 1874, this ryokan is the original hot spring source of Shioda Onsen, known for its healing mineral waters.
Getting There
🚄 From Kotohira: Take the train to Himeji Station, then a bus to Shioda. The ryokan provides a shuttle service from the bus stop, which takes just 3 minutes.
What Makes This Ryokan Special?
✅ Founded in 1874, rich in history ✅ Set in a quiet forest, perfect for relaxation ✅ Offers a variety of beautiful baths, including a hinoki-wood bath, a garden bath, and private open-air baths
The Ultimate Onsen Experience
The waters of Shioda Onsen are rich in sodium bicarbonate and chloride, believed to aid digestion and soothe nerve pain. The private outdoor baths were my favorite—surrounded by nature, offering a true escape from the world.
Dinner: The Flavors of Hyogo
Shioda Onsen’s kaiseki meal features Tajima beef (但馬牛) and fresh seafood from Harima-nada. The quality of ingredients and delicate presentation made it an unforgettable dining experience.
A Serene End to the Journey
After the crowds of Kotohira Shrine, arriving at Shioda’s peaceful forest setting was the perfect contrast. The calm atmosphere, soothing hot springs, and rich history of the ryokan made it an ideal way to end the trip.
Final Thoughts: Exploring Western Japan Beyond the Crowds
This three-day, three-prefecture journey was an incredible way to experience authentic Japan away from the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re interested in history, onsen, or regional cuisine, each of these ryokans offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
📢 Have you ever stayed at a ryokan? Let me know in the comments—which of these three would you love to visit first?
Experience the Timeless Charm of Japan’s Best Ryokan
Have you ever dreamed of stepping back in time, soaking in a steaming onsen, or savoring exquisite kaiseki meals while surrounded by breathtaking Japanese scenery? Ryokan, traditional Japanese inns, are more than just a place to stay—they’re gateways to Japan’s rich culture, history, and hospitality (omotenashi). In this guide, I’m sharing 5 of Japan’s most historic and breathtaking ryokan that promise to transform your next trip into a journey through time.
✨ 1. Fujiya Ryokan (富士屋旅館) – A Riverside Escape in Yugawara Nestled along the Chitose River in Yugawara, Fujiya Ryokan has been a haven for relaxation since the early Meiji period. Its tranquil riverside setting and seasonal gardens create the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you visit during cherry blossom season or autumn, the scenery here is unforgettable.
Don’t Miss: Their kaiseki dinner, featuring fresh seafood from Sagami Bay.
✨ 2. Mukaitaki (向瀧) – The Samurai’s Retreat Dating back to 1873, Mukaitaki in Aizu-Wakamatsu is steeped in history. This ryokan is known for its traditional architecture, stunning seasonal gardens, and a fascinating connection to Japan’s samurai heritage. Staying here during cherry blossom season feels like stepping into a once-in-a-lifetime painting.
Highlight: The ryokan’s stone-carved bath offers a serene, meditative experience.
✨ 3. Arai Ryokan (新井旅館) – A National Treasure in Shuzenji Located in the charming town of Shuzenji, Arai Ryokan is designated as a National Tangible Cultural Property. Its historic charm includes nightingale floors and Edo-period craftsmanship, making it a favorite for history buffs. The ryokan’s gardens, with stones dating back 400 years, add to the magic of this place.
Special Touch: Their 'musical floorboards' chirp as you walk, a historical security feature.
✨ 4. Notoya Ryokan (能登屋旅館) – A Taisho-Era Time Capsule At the heart of Ginzan Onsen, Notoya Ryokan preserves the elegance of Japan’s Taisho era. From its Art Deco light fixtures to its enchanting snow-covered streets lit by gas lamps, this ryokan feels like a storybook come to life.
Unique Feature: Relax in their hidden cave onsen for an unforgettable soak.
✨ 5. Fukuzumiro (福住楼) – The Artist’s Haven Perched above the rushing Hayakawa River, Fukuzumiro has been inspiring artists since 1890. This ryokan is renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the river gorge. Whether you visit in spring or fall, the seasonal beauty here is awe-inspiring.
Why Stay Here: Its rooms feel like living paintings, framing the river and seasonal foliage.
🌿 Plan Your Perfect Ryokan Experience Each of these ryokan offers a unique blend of history, hospitality, and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to serene riverside escapes, samurai-era charm, or snowy mountain towns, there’s a ryokan here to match your dream Japan getaway.
If you’re ready to relax, rejuvenate, and rediscover Japan, check out the video for more insider tips, highlights, and inspiration: 👉 [Watch the Full Video Here]
Which ryokan would you love to visit? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to explore the timeless beauty of Japan’s ryokan culture!
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