🕓 2025/7/28
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About Yamaguchi Prefecture
Located at the westernmost tip of Honshu, this region is blessed with abundant nature, such as the magnificent scenery of the Kanmon Straits and the karst plateau of Akiyoshidai. At the same time, it is a land etched with deep history, having played a central role in the Meiji Restoration that opened the door to Japan's modernization.
As the base of the Choshu Domain, it was a place where numerous visionary patriots (shishi) were active, dreaming of the dawn of a new era. A stay in Yamaguchi, where such history and nature intersect, can become a special experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing, satisfying both intellectual curiosity and a desire for tranquility.
For your visit to Yamaguchi Prefecture, we present below our selection of three luxury hotels where you can feel the essence of Japan and enjoy an exceptional stay.
3 Selected Traditional Japanese Inns in Yamaguchi Prefecture
1. Matsudaya Hotel
■ The Charm of "Matsudaya Hotel"
This is a long-established ryokan that exudes a special presence. Its founding dates back to the third year of the Enpo era (1675), and it has etched an overwhelming passage of over 340 years into its very being.
The evocative sukiya-style main building constructed in the Taisho era, the stroll-style Japanese garden said to have been created in the mid-Edo period, and the authentic historical sites that still exist throughout the premises—all of these elements come together, allowing the hotel to still proudly exude the dignity of a "living museum."
1. Historical and Cultural Value: Tracing the Footsteps of the Shishi
The greatest charm of Matsudaya Hotel lies in the ability to experience with all five senses the atmosphere of the very moments when Japanese history was made. Numerous historical and cultural assets are preserved within the hotel, but the crown jewels among them are the "Ishin-no-yu" (Bath of the Restoration) and the "Meeting Place of Saigo, Kido, and Okubo."
The "Ishin-no-yu" is a private family bath where the bathtub, installed in 1860, remains as it was in those days. It is a true witness to history, said to have been used by visionary patriots (shishi) such as Sakamoto Ryoma, Takasugi Shinsaku, and Ito Hirobumi between their secret talks. Unlike a mere exhibit viewed through glass, guests can actually soak in this historic bathtub.
Furthermore, within the stroll-style Japanese garden created in the mid-Edo period, the "Meeting Place of Saigo, Kido, and Okubo" still exists. It is said that the great leaders of the Satsuma and Choshu domains held concrete discussions here that would lead to the Satcho Alliance, making it the stage for a crucial meeting that determined the fate of Japan.
2. The Beauty of Architecture and Gardens: An Evocative Space with the Scent of the Edo and Taisho Eras
The hotel is composed of the two-story wooden "Main Building," which retains the charm of the Taisho era, and the well-equipped "New Building," allowing guests to choose a style of stay that suits their preference.
Stepping into the Main Building, you are enveloped in a sense of nostalgia, as if time has stood still. The polished wooden corridors, delicate fittings, and lush green garden create an atmosphere where it feels as though the shishi are still breathing. On the other hand, the New Building is fully equipped with the modern comforts essential for today's traveler. Despite being a historic building, the guest rooms are immaculate and exceptionally comfortable.
Stroll through the Japanese garden that has existed since the Edo period, immerse yourself in a space filled with Taisho-era romanticism, and then relax in a modern guest room. This experience, where the "past and present" intersect, is the charm of Matsudaya Hotel.
3. A Variety of Hot Springs: A Bathing Journey Through History and Elegance
At Matsudaya Hotel, you can enjoy the rich blessings of Yuda Onsen while touring various bathing areas, each with a different character. The stately "Iwa-no-yu" (Rock Bath), the elegant "Kura-no-yu" (Storehouse Bath) made from a relocated storehouse, and the open "Kahaku-no-yu" (Cypress Bath) with its fragrant aroma rotate between men and women at different times, so a key attraction is being able to enjoy all the baths during your stay.
In addition, the historical and cultural asset "Ishin-no-yu" is also open as a private family bath, allowing an elegant tour of the baths that soothes the soul and leads to a memorable stay.
4. The Essence of Cuisine: Choshu Seasonal Dishes Crafted by a "Master Instructor of Japanese Cuisine"
Another charm of Matsudaya Hotel is its "Choshu Shiki Ryori" (Seasonal Cuisine of Choshu), which makes full use of Yamaguchi's seasonal bounties. Supporting this culinary excellence is a head chef who holds the title of "Nihon Ryori Shinan-yaku" (Master Instructor of Japanese Cuisine), a distinction held by only a few people in the entire country. The fact that he is a figure who contributes not only with his outstanding skills but also to the inheritance and development of Japan's food culture elevates this dining experience beyond mere deliciousness to something truly special.
The aesthetic sense that dwells in every detail, from the choice of tableware to the way the dashi broth is prepared, captures the hearts of gourmands and is highly praised in guest reviews. Each and every dish, savored in this historic space, adds a rich and lasting afterglow to your stay.
■ Access Information for "Matsudaya Hotel"
- Official Website: http://www.matsudayahotel.co.jp/
- Access: Approx. 10-minute walk from Yuda Onsen Station on the JR Yamaguchi Line
- Address: 3-6-7 Yudaonsen, Yamaguchi-shi, Yamaguchi 753-0056
- Google Maps：https://maps.app.goo.gl/fZtZfmQMNUnNpvpA7
2. Yamaguchi Yuda Onsen Kokian
出典：やまぐち・湯田温泉 古稀庵 公式HP
■ The Charm of "Yamaguchi Yuda Onsen Kokian"
Yamaguchi Yuda Onsen Kokian is a tranquil hideaway, gently set apart from the bustle despite being in the heart of Yuda Onsen. Since its opening in 2011, the moment you pass through its gate, the clamor of daily life fades away. Here, just 16 guest rooms are dotted throughout a lush, green garden. It is a private resort for adults, where one can spend a quiet and high-quality time.
1. Architecture and Spatial Design: Calculated Serenity and Ultimate Privacy
The tranquility of Kokian is not accidental but intentionally designed. It was crafted by Ishii Architects Office, a firm renowned for creating many famous ryokans. Taking on the challenge of "creating tranquility" in a central urban location, the entire property is configured in a detached villa style. The buildings are gently connected by covered walkways, which naturally disperses the flow of movement and ensures privacy.
Furthermore, the rich plantings gently block lines of sight and sound, creating a serenity as if one were staying in a mountain villa. This "crafted tranquility" is the very essence of Kokian.
2. The Absolute Luxury of Open-Air Baths with Free-Flowing Spring Water in Every Room
The true luxury of Kokian lies in the fact that all 16 rooms are spacious Japanese-Western style suites, each equipped with a terrace and an open-air bath featuring free-flowing hot spring water direct from the source. Making this specification—typically reserved for the highest-grade suites—a standard for all guest rooms is a testament to their unwavering philosophy of "providing the best private space for every guest."
The experience of having the famed waters of Yuda Onsen all to yourself, at any time you wish without being disturbed, brings a deep sense of satisfaction and liberation. Additionally, each room offers various features such as a foot bath or a private garden, and detached villas even have pools, ensuring that you can discover a new charm with every visit.
3. Culinary Commitment: Heartwarming Seasonal Japanese Cuisine Embodying "Chisan-chimi"
The cuisine at Kokian is guided by the principle of "Chisan-chimi." This not only means using abundant local ingredients but also cherishing the process of carefully bringing out the profound, natural flavors unique to the land through meticulous cooking. The dishes, which make straightforward use of the bounties from Yamaguchi, a prefecture surrounded by the sea on three sides, are highly praised for their "delicious dashi broth" and "gentle flavors." The stable, high quality of the taste has been maintained by the same head chef since the opening.
Served in a semi-private room overlooking the garden, the meal is a flavor that deeply resonates with the heart, enjoyed in a time of harmony and tranquility.
4. Thoughtful Hospitality: Meticulous Care and Service for Adults
The hospitality at Kokian is filled with a quiet thoughtfulness that resonates with an adult sensibility. This unscripted hospitality extends to the finest details, such as the homemade ice cream and drinks available in the after-bath lounge and the amenities from the French luxury spa brand THALGO JAPON.
The service is highly praised for being polite yet maintaining a comfortable distance without being intrusive. The thoroughness in cleaning and maintenance brings a high-quality sense of cleanliness and a quiet, refined order to the entire space. It is this dedication, often in unseen places, that makes a stay here truly special.
■ Access Information for "Yamaguchi Yuda Onsen Kokian"
- Official Website: http://kokian.co.jp/
- Access: 10-minute walk from Yuda Onsen Station on the JR Yamaguchi Line
- Address: 2-7-1 Yudaonsen, Yamaguchi-shi, Yamaguchi 753-0056
- Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/zqxpa8cj4CAXJDWz6
3. Otanisanso Bettei Otozure
■ The Charm of "Bettei Otozure"
Quietly situated in the land of Nagato Yumoto Onsen, this is an exclusive hot spring resort with just 18 rooms. Its philosophy of "modern toji," a contemporary reinterpretation of Japan's ancient hot spring therapy culture, was highly acclaimed at an awards ceremony where world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma was also a judge. Within the architectural beauty and tranquility spreading across its 8,000 m² property, flows a luxurious time for deep introspection.
1. Architectural Design: A Modernist Space Designed with Light, Shadow, and Serenity
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At Bettei Otozure, the architecture is the core element that embodies the philosophy of "modern toji," a reinterpretation of hot spring therapy culture. The design, handled by Ishii Architects Office, utilizes dark-toned woods like walnut and black cherry, along with Western stone, to create a space that is both profound and serene. The contrast of light and shadow woven by indirect lighting enhances a meditative beauty. The interior, praised as being "as picturesque as a painting from any angle," is imbued with a refined aesthetic sense in every corner.
At the same time, Japanese ways of living, such as walking barefoot and sitting to relax, are naturally integrated, creating a sense of nostalgia within the modernity. Entrusting oneself to this space becomes a healing experience that soothes the soul.
2. The Ultimate Private Space: The Luxury of Just 18 Rooms on an 8,000 m² Property
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The essential luxury offered by Bettei Otozure lies in its overwhelming "spatial generosity." The lavish configuration of just 18 rooms on an 8,000 m² property creates an unparalleled sense of tranquility and privacy. All guest rooms feature an open-air bath with free-flowing hot spring water direct from the source, and range in size from a minimum of 69 m² to a maximum of 107 m².
Inside the resort, it is rare to encounter other guests, and the only sounds are those of nature, such as the murmur of the river and the songs of birds. This, combined with a policy of refraining from accommodating children under 12, carefully preserves a serene time for adults. This space provides a luxurious margin for calming the mind and connecting with oneself.
3. Hot Springs and Wellness: The Synergistic Effect of Collaboration with Otanisanso
The wellness experience at Bettei Otozure possesses a unique depth and breadth thanks to its collaboration with the adjacent parent ryokan, "Otanisanso." A key feature is that in addition to the in-room open-air baths and the exclusive grand bath for Otozure guests, the diverse hot spring facilities of Otanisanso are also freely available. Guests can enjoy both a private space enveloped in serenity and an expansive bath-hopping experience through 11 different types of baths, including lie-down baths and various open-air baths.
This luxurious experience of being able to freely enjoy two different charms—cutting-edge design and the dignity of a traditional ryokan—according to one's mood is a value unique to Otozure. A single stay offers a special time where one can savor healing from both tranquility and activity.
4. International Acclaim and Hospitality: Service Recognized by the World
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The quality of Bettei Otozure is not limited to domestic recognition; it is highly acclaimed internationally. In addition to being featured in the Michelin Guide, it was selected as one of the top 5 in the "Luxury Japan Hotel of the Year 2022," judged by a panel including architect Kengo Kuma. This external acclaim is backed by guest reviews that consistently award high scores for service, dining, and cleanliness.
The meticulous and sophisticated services, such as valet parking upon arrival, have inherited the spirit of hospitality from the renowned ryokan Otanisanso and elevated it to a global standard. Bettei Otozure has firmly established its presence as a luxury resort that transcends the category of a regional ryokan.
■ Access Information for "Bettei Otozure"
- Official Website: https://otozure.jp/
- Access: Approx. 15-minute walk from Nagato-Yumoto Station on the JR Mine Line (free shuttle service available, re
- quires prior arrangement).
- Address: 2208 Fukawa Yumoto, Nagato-shi, Yamaguchi 759-4103
- Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/oypeMYuCb7CtUj5AA