Shimosuwa Onsen Chosenkaku Kameya 下諏訪温泉 聴泉閣かめや

Area
Nagano
Access and surrounding information
Access and surrounding information
A Revered Retreat Cherished by Royalty and Literary Greats
Over 300 years ago, Shimo-Suwa Onsen prospered as a post town where the Koshu Kaido and Nakasendo roads met. Established in the Edo period as the principal inn (honjin) of Shimo-Suwa on the Nakasendo route, "Chosenkaku Kameya" later became a renowned retreat cherished by literary icons such as Ryunosuke Akutagawa, Tekkan and Akiko Yosano, and Toson Shimazaki during the Meiji era. Following a full renovation in November 2013, the inn now harmoniously combines the grace of its storied past with the comforts of the present. Guests can unwind in an atmosphere steeped in history and culture, gazing upon the traditional Rinsen-style garden once admired by travelers of old, or visiting the "Jodan-no-Ma" room, associated with Princess Kazunomiya and imbued with the romantic spirit of the late Edo period (19th century).

Guest Room

The "Fuji Room" Cherished by Toson Shimazaki

During the early Showa period (early 20th century), Toson Shimazaki often stayed in the "Fuji Room" while writing his masterpiece "Before the Dawn." The Rinsen-style garden spreading out below is a celebrated landscape garden once said to be the only one of its kind along the Nakasendo route.

Rooms Infused with the Solemn Breeze of Suwa Taisha Shrine

Renovated in 2022, this guest room features a semi-open-air bath that allows guests to savor the waters of Shimo-Suwa Onsen, a hot spring dating back to the Edo period. The terrace enjoys a privileged location where the sound of drums from Suwa Taisha Shrine can be heard. In autumn, the bath offers a picturesque view of colorful foliage and ripening persimmons.

Guest Rooms Combining Elegance and Comfort

The standard Japanese-style rooms in the new building have a beautiful Japanese atmosphere, with a rock garden just outside the window. The main building, which has carefully preserved its history, is a space where history comes alive, with its staircases, narrow passageways, and low doorways. There are many history enthusiasts who are fans of the main building.

Spa

Shimo-Suwa Onsen, a Hot Spring Steeped in Ancient Romance

According to legend, in ancient times, a deity placed a ball of cotton imbued with the sacred waters flowing from the Upper Shrine of Suwa Taisha, and from that spot a hot spring began to emerge. The spring, affectionately known as Wata-no-Yu ("Cotton Water") or Kami-no-Yu ("God’s Water"), continues to flow abundantly and can be savored in the baths of the inn.

Relax in a Spacious Bath Overlooking the Sunset

Completely renovated in November 2013, the large public bath, complete with an open-air bath, offers a soothing retreat. Soak in the gentle waters while watching the ever-changing hues of the sunset and listening to the rustling of trees from the Suwa Taisha forest and the chirping of wild birds.

Indulge in the Serenity of Silence and Hot Springs

Newly built in 2013, this private bath offers a serene retreat where only the gentle sound of flowing water can be heard. The waters of Shimo-Suwa Onsen, renowned for their skin-beautifying and restorative qualities, can be savored in luxury. Reservations are required; 45 minutes per session, 1,500 yen (excluding tax).

Cuisine

Kaiseki Cuisine Made with Seasonal Ingredients and Served with Care

Chef Shiobara's kaiseki cuisine is a modern take on local cuisine. Each dish reflects his dedication to using the finest ingredients of the season. Guests can dine at leisure while appreciating the garden’s seasonal beauty.

A Place to Savor Fine Cuisine Amid Garden Scenery

The garden reveals a different beauty in every season and is illuminated at night, offering an enchanting view even from the private dining rooms. A banquet hall is also available, designed for lively gatherings with family or friends.

Facility

Princess Kazunomiya and "Chosenkaku Kameya"

Princess Kazunomiya, on her way to marry Tokugawa Iemochi, is said to have stayed overnight in the "Jodan-no-Ma" room at this inn, located in what is now Shimo-Suwa on the Nakasendo road, the only hot spring resort among the post towns. Today, it serves as a tranquil space overlooking the garden.

Yukata Rental Service with a Choice of Colors

A colorful yukata rental service is available for all guests. Select a yukata in your favorite color and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the inn and the nostalgic hot spring town.

View of the Japanese Garden from the "Jodan-no-Ma" Room

The "Jodan-no-Ma" once served as the sleeping quarters for Princess Kazunomiya, feudal lords during their sankin-kotai (alternate attendance) journeys to Edo, and Kyoto nobles. From this room, a celebrated Rinsen-style garden can be admired, with its pond, waterfall, stone bridge, and stepping stones, each imbued with symbolic meaning. In early summer, the garden bursts into color with blooming azaleas and Kirishima azaleas.

Information

Shimosuwa Onsen Chosenkaku Kameya
Nagano

  • Address
    3492 Yokomachi Kinoshita, Shimosuwamachi, Suwa County, Nagano
    View map

    Access

    [Train] 10-minute walk from Shimo-Suwa Station on the JR Chuo Main Line; [Car] 10 minutes from Okaya IC on the Chuo Expressway
  • TEL
    +81-266-75-0161
    Please inform the staff that you found us through "Tabiiro."
  • FAX
    +81-266-78-7110
  • Official Website
  • SNS
  • Total number of rooms
    9 rooms
  • Check In/Out
    check-in
    3:00P.M.
    check out
    10:00A.M.
  • Staying Plan
    Please visit our website for more details.
  • Room with Open-Air Bath
  • Private Bath
  • Open-Air Bath
  • Non-Smoking Room
  • In-Room Dining
  • Spa
  • Pets Allowed
  • Under 20 Rooms
  • Solo Travelers Welcome
  • Gourmet Cuisine
  • Unique Architecture
  • Accessible
  • Pool
  • Fitness Center
  • Hot Spring
  • Natural Hot Spring
  • Public Bath
  • Free Shuttle
  • Childcare Facility
  • 5 min from Station
  • No Children Under 12
  • Golf Course
  • High-Speed Internet
  • Room Service

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