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.
Ishikawa Prefecture lies along the Japanese seacoast, and its spectacular Noto Peninsula extends out into the Sea of Japan. The capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture is Kanazawa which is located on the coast. Along with Kyoto, Kanazawa escaped the bombing during the Second World War and as a result some of the city remains as it as been for hundreds of years. Visitors can explore the tiny narrow crooked streets and passageways of the Nagamachi Samurai district and discover the former samurai mansions and old geisha quarters. Kanazawa has a history of arts and crafts including superb lacquer ware, exquisite kimono cloth, and some of the finest pottery in Japan.
Welcome to Notoya-Awazu. This Ryokan Hotel first opened for business over 1,300 years ago in 692 AD! Notoya-Awazu has 78 mostly Japanese-style rooms, and all guest rooms have their own private bath and toilet. Some of the guest rooms have their own private outdoor hot spring bath as well. There are indoor and outdoor hot spring baths for both women and men (same gender only), and there are indoor and outdoor hot spring baths which can also be privately reserved (ask at Notoya's front desk...
Welcome to Houshi Ryokan. This Traditional Ryokan (see definition of ryokan styles below) is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest ryokan in the world. It has been in business for over 1,300 years and has been operated by the same family for 46 generations. Houshi Ryokan has 74 Japanese-style guest rooms as well as a "hanare" (private guest residence). There are 2 indoor and 2 outdoor hot spring baths for both women and men (same gender only), and they are open 24 hou...
