Overview
For over 400 years, Kishigon Ryokan has carried on the traditions of Japanese hospitality, welcoming travelers since the Azuchi-Momoyama period. Located in Ikaho Onsen—one of Gunma’s most historic hot spring towns—this ryokan blends antique charm with warm, modern service. The motto here is simple: good water, good food, good views. You’ll feel it in every moment of your stay, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains.
Accommodation
Kishigon Ryokan offers a wide range of room styles, from classically styled Japanese rooms to modern suites with semi-open-air cypress baths.
Kishigon Suite “Kakitsubata”
This signature room combines tradition and creativity, inspired by the mythical dragon and the movement of water. It includes two Simmons semi-double beds, a massage chair, and a semi-open-air cypress bath. With artisanal armchairs and a serene layout, this room offers a luxurious retreat for two to five adults. Children under 12 are not permitted in this suite.
Room Types
- Scenic Japanese Modern: A fusion of traditional and modern elements with views of the surrounding mountains
- Japanese-Style Room: Comfortable tatami space perfect for peaceful rest
- Japanese-Western Style Room: Ideal for those who want beds and tatami in one space
- Specially Designed Guestrooms: Unique rooms with customized features
- Casual Twin (Western-style): Simple, functional rooms for solo travelers or pairs
- Spacious Japanese-Style Room: Ideal for groups or families
Each room is non-smoking and includes yukata, towels, toothbrushes, and free Wi-Fi. Yukata are provided in the room or available at the Yukata Corner depending on the floor.
Dining
Dinner
Enjoy seasonal Japanese course meals crafted with local ingredients. The chefs prepare ten or more beautifully presented dishes using Akagi beef, Uesu beef, seasonal vegetables, river fish, and fresh seafood delivered daily from Toyosu Market. The meals reflect the changing seasons of Gunma and are served with care and precision.
Breakfast
Start your day with a Japanese-Western buffet that features specialties like plum-pickled umeboshi from Misato and tofu made from the rare Ojiro soybean. Every dish is prepared with regional pride, offering a balanced and delicious morning meal.
Breakfast is served on the second floor in restaurants “Haruna” and “Ohiro.”
Onsen and Wellness
Kishigon Ryokan is known for its iron-rich sulfate spring, Ougon no Yu, which is celebrated for its skin-smoothing properties. You can choose from several unique hot spring experiences:
Separate Open-Air Bath: Gonzaemon no Yu
This outdoor cypress bath recreates a Nishiki-e painting from 1881 and offers a soak surrounded by nature. It doesn’t include a washing area, so it’s perfect for quiet reflection and rinsing only.
Open-Air Scenic Bath: Rokuzaemon no Yu
Take in panoramic views of Gunma’s mountainous terrain while relaxing in a bath designed for peace and renewal.
Large Bath: Matazaemon no Yu
Spacious and welcoming, this is where you can fully relax in the healing waters of Ikaho Onsen.
Private Baths
- Ukigumo: A garden-view bath with a rest area for quiet moments
- Hototogisu: A cypress bath designed to be easy on the body
- Kintou Koutou: A smaller, more affordable private option for individuals or couples
Footbath: Kishigon Tatsu no Yu Located along the famous Stone Steps of Ikaho Onsen, this public footbath invites you to soak your feet while exploring the town. Look for the dragon plate hidden in the stones.
Guests with Tattoos
The ryokan does not specify restrictions for tattoos. If you have concerns, private baths are available and can be reserved at check-in.
Facilities
Kishigon Ryokan provides everything you need to unwind, whether you’re traveling for relaxation or tradition:
- Lounge: A quiet space to enjoy a cup of tea
- Shop: Pick up local goods and souvenirs
- Karaoke Box: Sing and relax with friends or family
- Club Biidoro: A casual evening bar space
- Reading Room: A peaceful area for quiet time
- Ping-Pong Tables: A classic hot spring pastime
Rental items include nail clippers, bottle openers, chargers, hair dryers, and even playing cards or board games. A microwave, vending machines, and ice machines are available in common areas.
Activities
Step outside and explore Ikaho Onsen’s famous Stone Steps, just minutes away. This historic town is filled with cultural landmarks, footbaths, and scenic views. Take a walk through town, enjoy the sound of the onsen stream, and experience a slower pace of life that reflects the ryokan’s centuries-old traditions.
Additional Features
- Non-smoking rooms with free Wi-Fi
- Yukata available in-room or at dedicated Yukata corners
- Seasonal Japanese cuisine using fresh local ingredients
- A variety of hot spring experiences including private and open-air baths
- Footbath located right on the Stone Steps
- Shuttle service from the nearest bus stop with a simple phone call
- Easy access from Tokyo via Shinkansen and local buses
- Rental items and leisure facilities including karaoke and games