Overview
Step across a red bridge and enter a place where time slows down. Sekizenkan, located in the mountains of Gunma along the clear Shima River, has offered healing and quiet since it opened in 1694. Surrounded by forest and history, this ryokan carries more than 300 years of tradition. The architecture, with its thick beams and old-world design, still reflects its Genroku-era origins. The air smells of wood, the river glows jade green in the sunlight, and the only thing you need to do is—nothing at all.
Sekizenkan is said to have inspired the iconic bathhouse in Spirited Away, and once you see the arched windows of the Genroku Bath, you’ll understand why. Artists, poets, and storytellers have stayed here, drawn by the spirit of the place. Whether you’re seeking rest, healing, or creative inspiration, Sekizenkan welcomes you into a space where tradition and stillness live side by side.
Accommodation
Stay in one of three distinct buildings, each with its own character:
- Honkan (Main Building): Built in the late 1600s, this structure preserves the charm of early ryokan design. Step inside and see the original beams, stone baths, and a rare style where the changing room and bath are connected.
- Sanso: Built in 1936 in the Momoyama style, this hilltop retreat offers Japanese rooms surrounded by pine trees and bamboo groves. Some rooms now feature semi-open-air baths.
- Kashotei: Tucked behind Sanso, this newer addition blends traditional design with comfort. Select rooms include open-air or indoor onsen baths.
Each room offers a peaceful space to unwind, with views of mountains, gardens, or forest. Over the years, Sekizenkan has carefully renovated parts of these buildings while preserving their soul, updating rooms to meet modern needs without losing the history in the walls.
Dining
You can enjoy two unique dining experiences at Sekizenkan:
- Yakuzenya Koshin: This renovated historic structure now serves medicinal meals based on traditional Chinese medicine. Ingredients are chosen for both flavor and health benefits, helping you feel nourished from the inside out.
- Sekizenya Udon: For lunch, stop by this casual spot for kamaage udon and comforting regional dishes. You’ll find pork soups, sweet potato dishes, and set meals created in collaboration with food researcher Shoko Murakami. Even a single cup of coffee comes with care and intention.
Each meal reflects the seasons and the region, served in spaces that honor the building’s heritage.
Onsen and Wellness
Sekizenkan draws its hot spring water from Shima Onsen—famous for healing “forty thousand ailments.” You can experience the baths in several settings:
- Genroku no Yu (Main Building): This iconic bath, built in 1930, features arched windows, high ceilings, and stone tubs where the water bubbles up from the floor. It’s a rare example of Taisho Romanesque style, open 5:00 to 25:00.
- Mori no Yu (Kashotei): This indoor-outdoor bath gives you forest views while you soak. Its design encourages a sense of unity with nature.
- Sanso no Yu (Sanso): Two private, lockable baths available for families. Quiet and tucked away, they offer a more intimate experience.
- Private Reserved Baths (Kashotei): “Seki” and “Zen” are stone baths surrounded by nature, available for 45 minutes. Advanced reservation recommended.
The water here is sodium-calcium chloride sulfate—known for helping rheumatism, cuts, fatigue, digestive issues, and more. You can even drink the mineral water, which is said to aid gut health and skin condition.
Guests with Tattoos
You can use the baths even if you have tattoos. For added privacy, choose the reserved private baths or family-use facilities in the Sanso.
Facilities
- Historic architecture designated as a cultural property
- Footbath overlooking the river near Genroku no Yu
- Lounge spaces with restored ceilings and vintage speakers
- Rest areas for day-use bathers
- On-site shop for regional goods and crafts
- Art from Suminasu Inc., supporting artists with disabilities
- Nearby municipal parking (about 5 minutes on foot)
Activities
Take a walk through the nearby forest. Stroll across the red bridge at sunrise. Browse art and design around the ryokan. Relax in the lounge or sit quietly by the river. In warmer seasons, enjoy the blooming garden; in winter, warm up beside the footbath or with a bowl of udon.
Sekizenkan’s history also lives in stories. Rakugo storyteller Sanyutei Encho and poet Byakuren Yanagihara both drew inspiration from their time here. The ryokan is more than a place to stay—it’s a setting where memory, story, and stillness meet.
Additional Features
- Day-use bathing available
- Footbath and photo gallery area
- Non-smoking rooms
- No guest access to other guest room areas during day-use
- Herbal bath menu includes 12 types of traditional ingredients
- Spa services not available, but herbal meals promote wellness
