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: 👇
📺 Watch the Full Ryokan Experience Here!
What Makes Kowakubi Onsen Shōhōen Special?
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.
📺 Click here to watch the full video!
Would you stay at this 100-year-old ryokan? Do you prefer modern ryokans or historical ones like this? Let me know in the comments! 😊
📢 Don’t forget to subscribe for more hidden ryokan and onsen adventures across Japan! 🏯♨️
#AkitaRyokan #OnsenExperience #RyokanJapan #HiddenJapan #TraditionalJapan #JapaneseOnsen #LuxuryRyokan
About Anette
Anette came to Japan as an exchange student in 2010, met the love of her life and got stuck. From her base in Tokyo she writes about her experiences as a full-time worker in Tokyo and about her travels in Japan and abroad. She's a free-spirited adventurer who enjoys both the great outdoors and her urban lifestyle.
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