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.

📺 Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/B8yYZ0Bgb_c

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.

#ShinMutsuRyokan #Hachinohe #RyokanMeguri #OnsenWithHansen #JapanHistory #MeijiArchitecture #CulturalHeritageJapan #旅館めぐり

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.

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?

温泉が大好きなハンセンでした。またね！

 

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!