Sekizenkan Kashotei Sanso
9,4/10 Exceptional - Based on 372 reviews
Sekizenkan Kashotei Sanso occupies a group of historic buildings set beside a mountain river in the Shima Onsen area near Nakanojo. The property blends restored Taisho- and Showa-era architecture with refreshed guest rooms laid out in traditional Japanese style: tatami floors, low wooden furniture and sliding screens. Rooms range from classic Japanese-style chambers to larger suites in the Kashotei wing, some of which offer a terrace with a private bath fed by the inn’s hot spring. Public spaces and gardens are arranged to emphasise seasonal views and quiet circulation between the main wing, the Kashotei and the Sanso villa, creating a measured, restorative rhythm for overnight stays.
Bathing facilities are a defining element: the inn operates multiple communal and semi-open-air baths, a historic large bathhouse with distinctive period details, and several lockable family baths for private use. In addition to shared onsen pools, select Kashotei rooms and reserveable stone baths provide in-room or time-limited private soaks; guests commonly reserve these slots in advance. The property is frequently referenced as a ryokan with onsen in Gumma and is known for offering both communal and private bathing options, making it suitable for visitors seeking either a social onsen experience or more secluded relaxation.
Meals focus on local, seasonal ingredients presented in multi-course Japanese service, with many bookings including dinner and breakfast served in small dining rooms or private dining areas. Service emphasises attentive, unobtrusive hospitality and assistance with arranging room-type choices and private-bath reservations. Travellers choosing a room with an in-room bath or a reserveable family bath will find Sekizenkan functions as a ryokan with private onsen in Gumma for those prioritising privacy, while the communal baths preserve the traditional public onsen atmosphere. Booking early is advisable for rooms with terraces and for private-bath time slots.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sekizenkan Kashotei Sanso
Positive Reviews
Exceptional hospitality and service
Multiple guests praised the attentive, kind and well-prepared staff who enhanced the stay and helped non‑Japanese speakers feel welcome.
Outstanding cuisine (kaiseki)
Several reviews highlighted exquisite multi‑course dinners and refined breakfasts served in private dining areas or in‑room, described as a culinary highlight.
Beautiful historic setting and atmosphere
Reviewers loved the ryokan's ancient charm, Ghibli/“Spirited Away”‑like aesthetics, gardens and mountain/river views that create a unique, dreamy ambiance.
Excellent bathing experience (onsen)
Guests valued the variety of public baths and many rooms with private open‑air onsen; onsen baths, including private terrace baths, were described as magical and deeply relaxing.
Comfortable, well‑appointed rooms and bedding
Rooms were frequently described as spacious, immaculate and comfortable, with very comfortable futons/beds and modern in‑room facilities.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited transport
Several guests noted Shima Onsen's remote setting with few bus connections, making travel logistics more difficult and recommending travel from major hubs like Tokyo.
Arrival/parking and navigation can be unclear
A few reviewers experienced confusing arrivals—unclear parking instructions and a labyrinthine hotel layout that can make finding places or getting settled harder.
Occasional room/bath issues (temperature, bugs, lighting)
Isolated reports mentioned a bath temperature problem (resolved quickly), insects on balconies/occasionally in rooms, and bathroom lighting that some found too dim.
Language and communication limits
Some guests wished reception or staff had stronger English for explaining access to certain public onsens or resolving questions.
Cost and extra charges
A few reviewers mentioned a high price tag overall and noted that drinks (e.g. wine, vending items) felt pricey compared with expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms vary from double/twin layouts to family-style tatami rooms; many are sized for two to four guests. Cribs and extra beds are not available; children are welcome but those aged six and over are treated as adults for occupancy rules.
The property offers multiple hot-spring facilities including indoor baths, open-air baths and garden-facing baths, plus reservable private baths for shorter exclusive sessions. Public bathing areas and some private, lockable family baths are part of the ryokan’s facilities.
Tattoos may be restricted in the public baths; guests with visible tattoos are advised to use the private/reservable baths or ask staff for guidance. Private baths provide a discreet alternative when needed.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; access is typically by public transport and local buses or taxis from Nakanojo. Highway buses to Shima Onsen and local bus services from Nakanojo Station are common options for arriving guests.
From Tokyo, take the shinkansen or limited express to Takasaki, transfer to the JR Agatsuma Line to Nakanojo Station, then a local bus or taxi to Shima Onsen. Direct highway buses to Shima Onsen are also available from Tokyo on some routes, which can be a simpler option.
Standard check-in is in the afternoon (typically around 15:00) with check-in usually accepted until early evening, and check-out is by 11:00. If you expect to arrive late, notify the ryokan in advance to confirm arrival arrangements.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; English is sometimes spoken but may be limited, so simple phrases or advance requests in English can help. The ryokan staff are generally helpful and will assist with basic travel information.
Meals focus on seasonal Japanese cuisine, often served as multi-course dinners and set breakfasts in the ryokan’s dining areas or private dining sections for certain rooms. Nearby restaurants are limited, so many guests choose plans that include dinner and breakfast.
Pets are not permitted at the property. Shima Onsen is a small, quiet town with limited shops that close early, so plan to bring essentials or buy groceries in Nakanojo before arriving.
The ryokan sits in historic Shima Onsen with walkable retro streets, the iconic red bridge and the Genroku/Keiun bathhouse area; nearby highlights include the Kamagafuchi gorge, Ishidan-gai steps and seasonal hiking or nearby ski areas in winter. Day-trip sightseeing, local walks and short guided tours of the historic buildings are common activities.