Asaba

Set amidst the hot springs and radiant greenery of Shuzenji, Asaba Ryokan offers a journey into the heart of Japan’s most beautiful traditions. The property has been handed down through generations of the same family, contributing to its curated richness and authentic atmosphere. Each of its 17 rooms is uniquely designed and given a name instead of a number. Handwoven tatami flooring, a central table with cushions, plush futons, and views over a central pond and temple gardens create a serene and traditional setting. Occasionally, Noh performances and traditional music complement the ever-present murmur of the nearby Katsura River and birdsong. On the gastronomy front, dining at Asaba is a showcase of Japan’s finest recipes and ingredients. Hotpots, kaiseki, and charcoal-grilled fish are just a few examples of the culinary artistry that changes with the seasons. However, the true highlight of the ryokan is how the hot river that courses through Shuzenji feeds Asaba’s private hot pools. Enjoy baths caressed by pleasant breezes and shielded by bamboo bushes, providing a particularly relaxing experience after a day of cycling and hiking just outside the temple gates.