The accommodation operates within a Ryokan, a traditional place with hot springs and a strong tradition typical of the Asian country.
In the mountains of the prefecture Yamanashi, Japanthere is the ““Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan”a traditional hotel that combines luxury and tradition in a historic setting. This establishment, recognized as the oldest operating hotel in the worldoperates since the year 705 and preserves the essence of Japanese culture in every detail.
He ryokan, a type of traditional Japanese accommodation with hot springs, arose when the eldest son of Fujiwara no Kamataria powerful aristocratic family, discovered hot springs in the area. Since then, the place attracted historical figures such as Tokugawa shoguns and the current emperor of Japan, Naruhito. Its authenticity and legacy made it a benchmark of Japanese hospitality.
nishiyama-onsen-keiunkan luxury hotel japan
What is the oldest hotel in the world like?
He Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan stands out for its traditional architecture, with tatami floors, kimono-clad staff and signs with handwritten calligraphy. The establishment keeps alive a tradition of more than 1,300 yearsadapting to modern times without losing its essence.
The ryokan offers six hot springsfour of them outdoors, where guests can relax in a natural environment. The rooms, decorated with traditional scrolls (kakejiku) and views of the forest, reflect the harmony between nature and Japanese design. Additionally, the hotel serves kaiseki mealsa tasting menu with local ingredients, such as koshu meat and acorn noodleswhich highlight the gastronomy of the Yamanashi region.
The experience of staying at Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan
The experience at this ryokan begins with a trip from Tokyo until Minobua town of 11,000 inhabitants surrounded by mountains. The journey, which includes a train ride with views of the Mount Fujiculminates in a winding road that leads to the hotel. There, the staff welcomes guests with traditional kimonos and assigns them personalized slippers.
The rooms, divided into sitting and lounging areas, offer a panoramic view of the forest, similar to a painting of monet. Guests enjoy private dinners with dishes made with local products, such as smoked fish and grilled meatcooked in volcanic stones from Mount Fuji. Upon returning to their rooms, they find futons prepared for a restful rest, with details that guarantee an authentic experience.
He Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan It not only preserves its heritage, but also accommodates international travelers. Although it maintains traditions such as prohibit the use of shoes inside, incorporated larger futons to accommodate western guests. Your president, Kenjiro Kawanoensures that the objective is preserve authenticity while modernizing for new generations. This balance between history and adaptation makes it a unique destination for those seeking tranquility and tradition.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
