Overview
Stay at Bosenkan, a riverside ryokan founded in 1818, located in Gero Onsen—one of Japan’s three great hot springs, along with Kusatsu and Arima. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the warmth of traditional hospitality. The staff welcomes you with bright smiles and heartfelt service, and the sound of the river calms your mind as you settle into a timeless setting.
At Bosenkan, the view of the Hida River flows right into the design of the property. Step into the garden, slip off your shoes, and feel your pace slow. Whether you visit in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, nature becomes part of your stay.
Accommodation
You can choose from a variety of rooms designed to match your style and needs. Whether you want to sleep on a futon in a traditional tatami room, relax in a twin bed, or enjoy the quiet luxury of your own open-air bath, Bosenkan offers a space for you to unwind.
- Shikisai (with private open-air bath) – Enjoy Gero’s hot spring in total privacy. This Japanese-style room lets you soak while surrounded by peace and quiet.
- Rokkasen (twin bed with tatami space) – Rest in comfort while still enjoying Japanese design. This room blends soft beds with traditional floor seating.
- Standard Japanese Room – Lay back on a futon laid out on tatami mats and listen to the river as you fall asleep.
All rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, safe, refrigerator, kettle, towels, and free Wi-Fi. The design invites you to relax and disconnect from busy life.
Dining
Your stay includes a seasonal kaiseki dinner and a carefully selected breakfast. Each meal is crafted with precision and care, using the best ingredients of the season.
The dinner menu changes throughout the year, but always highlights Hida beef, one of Japan’s top-rated wagyu brands. Try it grilled on fragrant houba leaves, seared as steak, or featured in creative seasonal dishes.
Your rice comes from the Maze River, known for having some of the cleanest water in Japan. This natural water gives the rice a refreshing sweetness that pairs perfectly with every course.
You’ll enjoy your meal in one of several settings, including:
- Private ryotei-style dining rooms
- The main restaurant
- Banquet rooms for group meals
Breakfast is served as a set menu, and every item reflects seasonal ingredients prepared with care.
Onsen and Wellness
Bosenkan’s hot springs flow directly from Gero Onsen, known for its gentle, skin-beautifying waters. With a pH of 9.18, the water feels soft and smooth, and it may help with circulation, joint stiffness, and fatigue recovery.
You can enjoy:
- Large public baths – Gender-separated and surrounded by nature, these baths offer space to stretch out and relax.
- Ladies’ bath – Soak in a spacious tub with a full glass window that brings the outside in.
- Men’s bath – Step from the indoor bath into an open-air space that spans 20 tatami mats. In spring, cherry blossoms surround the area.
- Private open-air baths – Choose from hinoki (cedar) or rock baths in the garden. Reserve your bath upon check-in.
- Footbath – Located in the garden, this free hot spring footbath offers views of the river and mountains while you soak.
Guests with Tattoos
If you have tattoos, use of the public baths is restricted. However, you can still enjoy the private open-air baths. Just book one when you check in.
Facilities
The ryokan offers more than rooms and baths. You’ll also find:
- A 1,100-tsubo Japanese garden – Watch koi swim, stroll under cherry blossoms, and enjoy footbaths as the seasons change.
- Private dining rooms – Eat in peace with family or friends.
- Kids’ play areas – Space for children to enjoy.
- Karaoke bar – Sing and relax after dinner.
- Night-service restaurant – Grab a bite or drink before bed.
- Free Wi-Fi – Available throughout the property.
Activities
As you walk the garden paths or gaze from your bath, each season offers its own charm:
- Spring – Watch cherry blossoms bloom while you soak in the open-air bath. At night, lights cast a magical glow on the trees.
- Summer – Cool off after your bath with a cold drink at the Beer Garden and enjoy the breeze off the river.
- Autumn – See the mountains covered in red and gold while the temperature makes the hot springs even more inviting.
- Winter – Even though Gero rarely sees heavy snow, you may still catch a quiet snowfall. The contrast of steam and snow is unforgettable.
Additional Features
- Open-air baths with views of cherry blossoms, mountains, and the Hida River
- Private baths available for reservation
- Rooms with private outdoor tubs
- Seasonal cuisine featuring A5-grade Hida beef
- Footbaths and a garden designed for every season
- Free parking and on-site amenities for families
- Flexible meal plans from full board to room-only
