Overview
Step into 150 years of history at Iwaiya, a quiet inn where time moves gently. This traditional three-story wooden ryokan sits in the San’in region, with only 13 rooms and tatami floors that whisper the stories of generations past. Every tap in the building pours pure, natural hot spring water—direct from what many believe to be the oldest hot spring in San’in, dating back 1,200 years. At Iwaiya, everything feels simple and genuine. You’ll find no distractions here—only timeless charm, natural materials, and the warmth of heartfelt hospitality. If you’re looking for a place to slow down and experience the rhythm of old Japan, this is where it happens.
Accommodation
Iwaiya’s rooms offer traditional comfort inside a building that has stood since the Edo period. Each room features Japanese-style bedding and tatami floors. You’ll find a bidet-equipped toilet, yukata, clove-dyed towels, tabi socks, and essentials like a hairdryer, kettle, and tea. The ryokan assigns rooms based on availability, and layouts may vary slightly.
- Special Two-Room Suites (2F/3F): Sleep 2 to 4 people with two spacious tatami rooms totaling about 22 square meters.
- Two-Room Suites (3F): Designed for 2 to 3 people with slightly smaller tatami rooms around 16 square meters.
- Two-Room Suites (1F): Accommodate 2 to 6 people and offer spacious layouts on the ground floor. You may hear movement from upper floors.
- Room with Japanese-Style Beds (2F): Fits 2 people with a compact layout of around 12 square meters.
- Relaxing Japanese-Style Room (2F): Fits 2 to 3 people with about 16 square meters of space.
- Standard Japanese-Style Room (2F/3F): Ideal for 2 people, featuring about 12 square meters of simple, clean design.
Check-in starts at 15:00, and checkout is by 10:00. The Japanese-style beds include layered mattresses for comfort. If you’re in a group of three or more, you’ll also receive traditional futons.
Dining
Iwaiya’s kaiseki meals celebrate the daily gifts of the Inaba region. Every dish is carefully prepared using seasonal local ingredients. Your multi-course dinner includes highlights like Tottori Wagyu mini steak, Matsuba crab, squid, mountain vegetables, and freshly caught fish. Each bite brings the region’s natural flavors to life. Menus change with the seasons, so no two meals are exactly the same.
Onsen and Wellness
You’ll soak in 1,200 years of history every time you bathe at Iwaiya. Every onsen here uses 100% natural spring water from Iwai Onsen’s oldest source—pure and untouched.
- Gensen Choju no Yu (Main Public Bath): Sink into a deep indoor bath that lets you stand up while submerged to the chest. High ceilings and the scent of pine create a wide-open, calming space.
- Sedo no Yu (Open-Air Bath): Bathe outdoors surrounded by bamboo fencing. Let sunlight filter through the trees as you relax in warm mineral-rich water.
- Iwai no Yu (Main Public Bath): A quieter indoor bath with a more peaceful ambiance than Choju no Yu. This bath does not have an open-air section.
- Yoimachi Gusa (Private Bath): A private wooden bath perfect for families. It offers a quiet retreat with natural water and traditional charm. You can reserve this bath on the same day at the front desk for ¥3,300 (45 minutes).
Choju no Yu and Iwai no Yu rotate daily between male and female use at 20:00. All baths remain open 24 hours except during cleaning. You’ll find essentials like shampoo, conditioner, body soap, razors, and combs available.
Guests with Tattoos
If you have tattoos, use of the private bath is your best option. You can reserve the Yoimachi Gusa bath to enjoy a private and uninterrupted hot spring experience.
Facilities
Relax inside the ryokan and take in the small details that make this place special.
- Tea Lounge: Look out onto the courtyard while enjoying freshly brewed coffee in colorful, handcrafted cups.
- Folk Craft Gallery: Browse a thoughtful collection of local handmade pieces. Some are available for purchase.
- Mini Library: Curl up with a book in the tea lounge.
- Entrance Lobby: Sit on soft tatami mats and take a moment to unwind.
- Gift Shop: Pick up specialty foods and souvenirs from the San’in region.
Activities
While you’re here, slow your pace and take in your surroundings. Explore the small streets nearby, discover traditional shops, and enjoy simple pleasures like a quiet walk or a warm drink. The ryokan’s relaxed setting makes it easy to connect with the peaceful side of Japan.
Additional Features
- Free Wi-Fi in common areas
- Yukata, tabi socks, and traditional towels provided
- Flexible bathing schedule with both public and private options
- Seasonal dining with regional ingredients
- Quiet environment perfect for rest and reflection
