Aman is well known for its ultraluxury resorts and hotels found in some of the world's favorite cities, like Tokyo and Venice, Italy, as well as destinations as close as Utah and as far as Phuket, Thailand.
25.09.2024 - 14:44 / matadornetwork.com
In the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, lies Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) with a history that stretches back over 1,300 years. Founded in 705 AD, the hotel is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest hotel in the world.
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While Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan had been a cherished destination for Japanese travelers for generations, its fame reached new heights in 2011 when it was officially recognized by the Guinness World Records.
The ryokan’s story is intrinsically linked to the water that sustains it — the Hakuho Springs. These hot springs have provided Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan with its onsen, a bathing experience deeply woven into Japanese culture. For centuries, the ryokan has served as a sanctuary, welcoming a fascinating array of guests. From ordinary townsfolk to esteemed military commanders, even the current Emperor of Japan, Naruhito, has experienced the restorative wellness offerings.
The healing waters are sourced from four different hot springs, whose properties of sodium, calcium nitrates, and chloride are said to have the effects of relief on gastrointestinal disorders, muscle pain, and skin irritations. There are four open-air baths offering breathtaking views and two tranquil indoor pools. And for a more indulgent stay, consider booking the upgraded rooms with expansive balconies and private baths, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings in privacy.
Today, the hotel offers a glimpse into the past, with meticulous attention to detail and impeccable Japanese omotenashi (hospitality). While a stay at the ryokan feels like time has stood still, the facilities have been thoughtfully modernized over the years. Visitors can expect a luxurious stay amidst the natural beauty of the Akaishi Mountains, with access to multiple onsen baths and fine dining.
Staff at the ryokan continue the 1,300-year-old traditions, all while catering to the influx of guests who stay here for the hospitality, history, and the region’s natural beauty.
The Yamanashi Prefecture is best known for being the home of Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic landmark, and abundance of sakura (cherry blossom) trees. From tree-lined parks to stunning views of Mount Fuji framed by delicate blooms, come spring, the prefecture comes alive with Japan’s national flower.
Aman is well known for its ultraluxury resorts and hotels found in some of the world's favorite cities, like Tokyo and Venice, Italy, as well as destinations as close as Utah and as far as Phuket, Thailand.
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To encourage travelers to Japan to get off the beaten path, delve deeper into the country’s cultural heritage, and venture beyond the popular tourist destinations, Japan Airlines is offering complimentary domestic flights all across the archipelago.
Mount Yoshino in the Nara Prefecture is one of Japan’s most popular spots for cherry blossom (sakura) viewing. There’s a wide range of varieties and approximately 30,000 cherry trees and according to Japan Travel, they were planted over 1300 years ago. In spring, the area gets extremely busy with people traveling to see the light pink to white flowers with a backdrop of the region’s stunning natural landscape peppered with historic temples, hillside towns, and must-visit cities. This other-worldly natural phenomenon is so famous that people plan bucket-list vacations to Japan during the season in order to see the trees in full glory. But if you don’t like the idea of walking through crowds of people on cramped paths, you might want to consider a more luxurious way to enjoy the sakura and book a helicopter flight with AIROS Skyview. Matador Network reached out to AIROS Skyview to chat about the various routes they offer and how you can tailor-make your own cherry blossom voyage to take in the collage of colors from the sky.
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If you time it right, there are several dozens of great places to enjoy cherry blossom season in Japan — and not just in Tokyo, but in Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Sendai, Aomori, and more. And the blossoms are not just found in parks, but also around temples, shrines, castles, etc. Few cherry blossom viewing experiences, however, are as cool as the one you get from the Sagano Scenic Railway. West of the city of Kyoto, the Sagano Scenic Railway, nicknamed the Romantic Train, offers a beautiful 25-minute ride amongst cherry blossoms. It might just be the loveliest way to take in the millions of delicate pink flowers that make spring in Japan so special.
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