This preserved historic 140-year-old Ryokan from the Meiji Era is home to a secluded hot spring, which welcomed famed creative intellectuals and Japanese royalty over the decades and offers the rare opportunity for mixed-gender baths.

Houshi Onsen Chojukan in Minakami Tanigawa Onsen (Gunma)— A hidden bath set along a stream running through the bountiful deep mountain greenery. This famous spring was popular amongst the intellectual poet-painters (bunjin) of yore. An inn that has been in business for over hundred forty years.

The Hoshi Onsen Chojukan is a secluded hot spring onsen, set along a stream running through the bountiful deep mountain greenery. In a beautifully preserved 140-year-old building, this famous spring was popular amongst the intellectual poet-painters (bunjin) of yore. It is located in the picturesque mountains of Gunma Prefecture in Joshin’etsukogen National Park.

The main building was constructed during the Meiji period (1868-1912) and maintains the architectural style of that time. The inn welcomes overnight guests as well as those who are just looking to enjoy the bathing facilities. Rare among Japanese hot spring resorts, it offers both gender-separate and mixed bathing depending on the time of day, making it perfect for couples.

The indoor baths feature exquisite cypress tubs, while the outdoor baths offering spectacular views of the starry skies at night. There's even a riverside bath reserved for women.

For overnight guests, the inn offers extensive dining options featuring local ingredients and sublime Japanese sake. For those dropping by for the day, there are special packages that include bathing and a choice of lunches. Visitors are encouraged to check availability ahead of time.