James Wolfe
When travelers think about luxury, wellness, and cultural depth, Japan is often at the top of the list. But hidden in Yamanashi Prefecture is something truly extraordinary, a destination that goes beyond five-star experiences or modern amenities.
The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest hotel in the world, continuously operating since the year 705. That’s right, this Onsen Ryokan has welcomed guests for over 1,300 years, making it not only a lodging choice but a living piece of Japanese history.
What Makes Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan Unique
Most hotels are considered historic if they have been around for a century. Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan outpaces them by more than a millennium. Nestled in the mountains of Yamanashi near Mount Fuji, the inn was founded during Japan’s Keiun era, which is how it earned its name. For over 50 generations, the inn has been operated by the same family lineage, passing down traditions of hospitality, known in Japan as omotenashi.
What sets this historic inn apart is how it continues to blend its ancient foundation with modern comforts. The core of the experience is its natural hot springs, flowing directly from the Hakuho Springs. Guests immerse themselves in steaming mineral-rich baths with views of the surrounding valleys, just as travelers did centuries ago. It is a reminder that some luxuries, like nature’s healing waters, never go out of style.
The Onsen Experience
Staying at Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan means embracing Japanese bathing culture. The property features multiple open-air and indoor baths, with each one fed by the natural hot spring that has flowed since its founding. Visitors can enjoy communal baths or opt for private onsen experiences.
The water here is said to be particularly rich in minerals, believed to aid circulation, relax muscles, and promote overall wellness. Beyond physical benefits, soaking in an onsen is a spiritual ritual for many. It is a chance to slow down, disconnect, and experience a sense of harmony that modern spa treatments often try to recreate.
Traditional Ryokan Living
Unlike modern hotels with towering lobbies and uniform rooms, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan follows the tradition of the ryokan, a Japanese-style inn. Guests are greeted with tatami-matted rooms, sliding shoji doors, futon bedding, and yukata robes for relaxing. The design emphasizes simplicity and a deep connection with nature, making every detail part of the immersive cultural journey.
A highlight of the stay is the kaiseki dining experience, a multi-course Japanese meal that showcases seasonal ingredients. Dishes often feature local specialties such as river fish, wild vegetables, and Yamanashi beef. Each meal is as much an art form as it is nourishment, designed to reflect the natural surroundings and traditions of the region.
Modern Comforts in an Ancient Setting
Though Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan has been welcoming guests since the early eighth century, the inn has not remained frozen in time. Renovations have carefully integrated contemporary comforts without sacrificing authenticity. Rooms now include modern bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to balance convenience with cultural immersion.
The balance between heritage and modernity is delicate, yet Keiunkan masters it beautifully. Guests can enjoy a traditional tatami room while still charging their smartphones, ensuring that the experience is accessible for international travelers who expect a certain level of convenience.
A Retreat Into Nature
Location is a key part of the hotel’s allure. Yamanashi Prefecture is rich in natural beauty, and Keiunkan sits in the Nishiyama mountains, framed by rivers and lush valleys. Guests can wake to the sound of flowing water, hike nearby trails, and even catch glimpses of Mount Fuji on clear days.
In every direction, the setting emphasizes serenity. For travelers looking to escape urban noise, the inn offers a peaceful retreat where nature and tradition intertwine.
Why Travelers Seek the World’s Oldest Hotel
Part of the charm of Keiunkan is that a stay here is not just a trip but a story. Travelers return home saying they bathed in the same hot springs as samurai, monks, and nobility from centuries past. The continuity of service across 1,300 years is itself an awe-inspiring feat.
In today’s travel culture, where unique and authentic experiences are highly valued, Keiunkan stands out as a rare opportunity. It is both a luxury escape and a historical encounter, an intersection of wellness travel, cultural immersion, and heritage tourism.
Planning Your Stay
Staying at Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan requires some planning. The inn is located in Hayakawa, a small town in Yamanashi Prefecture, about three hours from Tokyo by train and bus. Many travelers choose to combine their stay with visits to nearby Mount Fuji, Kofu, or the Fuji Five Lakes region.
Reservations should be made well in advance, as the inn is world-famous and fills quickly, especially during peak seasons. Rates vary depending on the room type and dining package, but guests can expect to pay a premium for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
For travelers new to onsen culture, it helps to know a few customs before visiting. Bathing is done nude, and proper etiquette is important. Guests must wash thoroughly before entering the baths, and towels are not to be dipped into the water. The inn’s staff is welcoming and happy to guide guests through these traditions, ensuring an inclusive experience for international visitors.
Wearing the provided yukata robe around the inn is part of the charm. It creates a shared sense of relaxation and community, as everyone from locals to overseas visitors participates in the same customs.
Preserving a Legacy
The survival of Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is remarkable. Wars, natural disasters, and cultural changes have swept across Japan, yet the inn continues to thrive. Its success is rooted in both adaptability and a profound respect for tradition. By staying there, travelers help support the preservation of a cultural treasure that has endured for more than a millennium.
The Lasting Impression
A stay at Keiunkan leaves a lasting impact not because of flashy amenities but because of its timelessness. The sense of connection to history, nature, and Japanese hospitality resonates deeply with visitors. It is more than just the oldest hotel in the world, it is a living reminder that true luxury often lies in tradition, simplicity, and continuity.
For travelers who value meaningful experiences, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan is a destination that should be at the very top of the bucket list.
