In our travels, we stumbled upon a gem of traditional Japanese hospitality. This historic inn, perched along a picturesque river in Gunma, offers a genuine slice of old Japan.
You’ll sleep on futons in tatami rooms, soak in shared hot springs, and savor meticulously prepared local cuisine. The surrounding nature is breathtaking, with mountains and craftsmen’s villages nearby.
While the experience is undoubtedly authentic, some travelers might find the shared bathing facilities and traditional sleeping arrangements a bit outside their comfort zone. The remote location, while serene, can also make it challenging to explore other areas without a car.
This ryokan is perfect for those seeking a deep dive into Japanese culture and relaxation. It’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway, culture enthusiasts wanting to enjoy tradition, and anyone needing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you’re after a genuine, no-frills Japanese hot spring experience, this place should be at the top of your list.
Key Points
- Houshi Onsen Chojukan is a historic ryokan located along the Houshi River in Minakami, Gunma, Japan, known for its scenic setting and well-preserved traditional Japanese atmosphere.
- The ryokan offers a variety of room types, including deluxe, standard, economy, and single rooms, all featuring tatami floors, low tables, and futon bedding.
- The ryokan’s public hot spring baths, including indoor, outdoor, and shared facilities, allow guests to experience the authentic Japanese onsen culture.
- Houshi Onsen Chojukan serves authentic Japanese cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients and traditional presentation, enhancing the overall culture experience.
- The ryokan is situated in a convenient location, with a 20-minute drive to the Takumi-no-Sato arts and crafts village and a 1-hour drive to Mount Tanigawa-dake.
About Houshi Onsen Chojukan
Nestled along the picturesque Houshi River in Minakami, Gunma, Japan, Houshi Onsen Chojukan is a historic ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that boasts a century-old wooden building.
Rated 9.2/10 for its scenic location, the ryokan offers guests a chance to enjoy the region’s natural beauty, with the Takumi-no-Sato arts and crafts village a 20-minute drive away and Mount Tanigawa-dake an hour’s journey.
Inside, Houshi Onsen Chojukan features Japanese-style rooms with tatami floors, low tables, and futon bedding, as well as shared bathing facilities and a public hot spring praised for its historical significance and serene ambiance.
Theres some good authentic Japanese cuisine and appreciate the property’s exceptional service and well-preserved charm.
Location and Accessibility
Houshi Onsen Chojukan is located in Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, a scenic mountainous region in central Japan. Rated 9.2/10 for its location by previous guests, the ryokan is situated along the picturesque Houshi River, offering nature views.
It’s a 20-minute drive from the Takumi-no-Sato arts and crafts village, and a 1-hour drive from the majestic Mount Tanigawa-dake.
Despite its remote location, the ryokan is easily accessible, with guests able to reach it by private vehicle.
There’s no direct bus service from the nearest train station, JR Jomo-Kogen, after 4 PM, so advance planning is recommended for those without their own transportation.
Room Types and Amenities
Guests at Houshi Onsen Chojukan can choose from a variety of room types, each offering a traditional Japanese-style experience.
The accommodation options include Deluxe, Standard, Economy, and Single Rooms, accommodating between one to four guests.
All rooms feature tatami floors, low tables, and futon bedding, creating a cozy and authentic ambiance.
While the rooms don’t have en-suite bathrooms, the property provides shared toilet and bathing facilities.
Guests can also enjoy the convenience of the provided yukata robes.
Whether travelers seek a more luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, Houshi Onsen Chojukan caters to diverse preferences with its range of accommodation choices.
Onsen and Bathing Facilities
At the heart of Houshi Onsen Chojukan lies its prized possession – the public hot spring bath. Theres some good three onsen, each praised for its captivating beauty and historical significance. The onsen experience is a true highlight, allowing visitors to enjoy the hotel’s rich cultural heritage.
| Onsen Types | Description |
|---|---|
| Indoor | Traditional Japanese-style bathing area with tatami mats |
| Outdoor | Scenic open-air bath overlooking the serene Houshi River |
| Shared | Communal bathing facility for an authentic onsen experience |
The hotel’s dedication to preserving the authenticity of the onsen facilities ensures that guests can enjoy a truly immersive and rejuvenating hot spring experience during their stay.
Dining and Culinary Offerings
Diners can consistently savor an array of Japanese culinary delights at Houshi Onsen Chojukan’s dining room.
The ryokan proudly serves both Japanese breakfast and dinner, prepared with the freshest local ingredients. Guests appreciate the authenticity and quality of the meals, which showcase the region’s traditional flavors.
The staff takes great care in presenting each dish, ensuring a dining experience that complements the serene onsen atmosphere.
Whether it’s a hearty breakfast to start the day or a multi-course dinner complete with seasonal specialties, the culinary offerings at Houshi Onsen Chojukan allow guests to fully enjoy the ryokan’s time-honored traditions.
Guest Feedback and Ratings
Houshi Onsen Chojukan has earned consistently high guest ratings, with travelers praising its serene atmosphere, beautiful onsen baths, and exceptional service.
The ryokan boasts an impressive overall rating of 9.2/10 based on 188 reviews. Guests have particularly highlighted:
- The staff, with a 9.3/10 rating for their attentive and hospitable service.
- The well-maintained facilities, scoring 9.1/10 for cleanliness and comfort.
- The authentic and delectable Japanese cuisine, earning 8.6/10 for value.
- The historical charm and preservation of the century-old wooden building.
Policies and Restrictions
Guests of Houshi Onsen Chojukan must abide by a set of policies and restrictions to ensure a pleasant and harmonious stay.
Check-in is between 15:00 and 18:00, while check-out is from 08:00 to 10:30.
The property doesn’t allow children or pets, and parties or events are prohibited.
Guests must inform the staff of any food allergies in advance.
Cash is the only accepted payment method, as the nearest ATM is 7 km away, and there’s no bus service after 16:00 from the JR Jomo-Kogen Train Station.
Plus, guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Visitors to Houshi Onsen Chojukan often take advantage of the property’s convenient location to explore the surrounding natural and cultural attractions.
Within a 20-minute drive is the Takumi-no-Sato arts and crafts village, where guests can browse local artisanal products.
Just an hour’s drive away lies the majestic Mount Tanigawa-dake, offering hiking opportunities and stunning vistas.
The nearby Houshi River provides ample opportunities for nature walks and riverside relaxation.
Plus, the historic Minakami region is home to numerous shrines and temples, allowing guests to enjoy Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use the Onsen if I Have a Tattoo?
Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas. However, it’s best to check with the property directly as policies can vary. They can provide guidance on any accommodations or alternatives that may be available.
Is There a Dress Code for the Onsen?
According to the information provided, guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas at this onsen. There does not appear to be a specified dress code, but guests are provided with yukata robes to wear.
Can I Book a Private Onsen for My Stay?
Yes, guests can book a private onsen during their stay. However, Houshi Onsen Chojukan does not offer private bathing facilities. The property features public onsen baths that are highly praised for their beauty and historical significance.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Packages for Long Stays?
The inn doesn’t appear to offer any special discounts or packages for longer stays. However, guests may be able to negotiate a better rate for extended bookings by contacting the property directly.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Ryokan?
According to the provided information, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the ryokan. The ryokan serves Japanese breakfast and dinner, and guests must inform the property of any food allergies in advance.
The Sum Up
After soaking in the timeless charm of this historic ryokan, we can confidently say it’s a gem hidden in Gunma’s picturesque countryside. The steaming hot springs and mouthwatering local dishes transport you to a bygone era, while the surrounding natural beauty beckons exploration.
Our visit left us enchanted by the authentic culture and peaceful ambiance. It’s the perfect retreat for those seeking to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with Japan’s rich traditions.
Ready to experience this slice of paradise yourself? The button below will whisk you away to Booking.com, our go-to site for hassle-free reservations. We’ve found their prices to be competitive, and the best part? Booking is absolutely free. So go ahead, treat yourself to a stay that’ll have you saying "Sugoi!" in no time.