What is a Ryokan? Ryokans are the best way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the true comforts of Japanese hospitality and service.
Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 "onsen" ,or hot springs, in Japan. Many can be found at the ryokans available on Japanese Guest Houses.
Shuzenji is one of the Izu Peninsula's oldest hot springs and is revered all over Japan. It is
located in the hilly center of the peninsula on the Katsuragawa River and is filled with
history.
Shuzenji Temple is said to be founded by Kobo Daishi, one of Japan's most famous Buddhist priests, about 1200 years ago when he discovered a natural hot spring with an iron rod. Today this hot spring is called Tokko no Yu or iron rod hot spring an is used as a foot bath in the center of town.
During the Kamakura Period (1185 to 1333) Minamoto Yoriie, the second Shogun of the era, was
imprisoned here in the Shigetsuden compound. Known for his brilliance from birth he was the
subject of much jealousy from his family as was executed at the age of 23. Makes you feel that you
own family issues are minor in comparison.
This is truly a hot spring town without a lot of touristy attraction. Here you can just sit back, relax
and enjoy a uniquely Japanese experience.
Welcome to Arai Ryokan. This Luxurious Ryokan was built in 1872, and it embodies traditional Japanese style with its Japanese gardens, tatami mat rooms, and fine woodwork. There are 25 Japanese style guest rooms located in various private cottages at Arai Ryokan. A wooden bridge leads to the guest rooms, and the rooms themselves overlook either the Katsura River or the courtyard with its large pond full of carp. Arai Ryokan's cavelike bathhouse was built in 1933, and thick cypress pillars...
Welcome to Yagyunosho. This is a high-class, traditional Luxurious Ryokan located in the famous hot spring area of Shuzenji. The main building is made of Japanese "hinoki" (cypress) in the traditional Japanese "sukiya" architectural style. There are 16 Japanese-style rooms at Yagyunosho, including 2 rooms in a private guest residence. Each guest room has its own private bath and toilet. In the deluxe rooms there are also private outdoor hot spring baths. Yagyunosho has both indoor and out...
Welcome to Asaba Ryokan. This gorgeous Luxurious Ryokan complex was first constructed in 1675, and it is surrounded by a bamboo forest and overlooks a large pond. The interior and exterior of Asaba Ryokan are in the traditional Japanese style, and there is even a Japanese Noh theater across from the ryokan where Noh plays are sometimes performed. There are 19 Japanese-style rooms at Asaba Ryokan as well as 4 deluxe rooms. Shared indoor and outdoor hot spring baths are available, and there...
Welcome to Kikuya Ryokan. This large Luxurious Ryokan is located beside the Katsuragawa River and is surrounded by a gorgeous Japanese garden. Kikuya Ryokan has 40 Japanese-style rooms, and most guest rooms have their own private bath and toilet. There are 4 indoor and outdoor hot spring baths for both women and men (same gender only). In the outdoor hot spring baths, guest have a wonderful view of Kikuya Ryokan's Japanese garden. The indoor hot spring baths are open 24 hours a day, and t...
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