Where to Stay in Shuzenji Onsen?
Nestled in the hilly heart of the Izu Peninsula, Shuzenji Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious hot spring resort towns. Often referred to as the "Little Kyoto of Izu," it is a pleasantly bustling town with both history and new businesses started by newcomers.
Where to Stay in Shuzenji Onsen
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Asaba Ryokan - Often ranked as one of the best ryokan in all of Japan. This is an expensive and high end option but worth every penny. It is famous for its floating Noh Stage which sits over a pond. The history is impressive as the same family has run the inn since the 1400s.
Arai Ryokan - For history lovers, this is probably the spot. Again on the higher end, this inn is a registered national heritage property. From the winding corridoors to the koi that swim in the waters around the inns. The place is magnificent.
Goyokan - One of the highest ranked inn in Shuzenji Onsen is this boutique ryokan with only a few rooms, known for its incredible food and very personal, attentive service. Each room is designed with a unique theme.
Yukairo Kikuya - This 380-year-old inn is known for its beautiful meandering corridors and a mix of vintage atmosphere with modern amenities. They offer several private "family baths" that you can use without an extra fee.
Shuzenji Onsen Katsuragawa - More into the mid range, this is a contemporary hotel-style ryokan. It offers seven different private themed baths that guests can use for free on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hostel Knot - For travelers on a budget this is a clean and stylish hostel much loved by many a budget traveler in Japan. It doesn’t have an onsen of its own but visitors can always use the day spa in Shuzenji, Hakoyu.
What to do in Shuzenji Onsen
Shuzenji Temple - The town’s namesake temple sits on a small rise overlooking the center. It is a place with a tragic history tied to the rise and fall of the Minamoto clan during the Kamakura period.
The Bamboo Forest Path & The Five Red Bridges of Love - A short, stunning walk along the Katsura River takes you through a grove of towering bamboo. In the center of the grove, there is a large circular bamboo bench where visitors lie back to look straight up at the canopy. In the same region five vermillion bridges span the Katsura River, each associated with a specific wish for love or luck. Crossing them all in order is a popular ritual for travelers seeking a little romantic boost.
Make Washi - A young migrant has in recent years started a washi making business right in the town. He offers workshops and lectures of how washi is made.
Walk - Using Really Rural Japan’s guidebook to Izu you can go walking in the mountains a little behind Shuzenji or catch a bus and climb Mount Daruma for stunning views of Mount Fuji.