Experience living in a century-old house in the heart of an authentic rural onsen resort.
Himecho@Yasushi is located in the heart of the Ogama district of Noswaonsen. Himecho@Yasushi is a unique machiya-style townhouse in this exceptional village. After recent works to bring modern infrastructure to this ancient ryokan, Himecho@Yasushi is ready to welcome groups of up to 12 persons.
Himecho’s five comfortable tatami guest rooms are typical of bedrooms in old village homes. You’ll be sleeping traditional style with futons on tatami (although we promise futons large enough for taller guests). Our futons are also designed for the softer feel generally preferred by our non-Japanese guests. All guest rooms here are cosy spaces that recall the tradition of hospitality original guests at ryokan Himecho would have enjoyed.
We have however updated some old practices for the comfort of our guests. Many Japanese homes and guest houses often do not have ensuite facilities. Toilets were often a few steps down the hallway, and everyone shared a spacious ofuro bathroom. While we have kept some of these traditional elements, there are now 5 bathrooms/showers for the 5 guest rooms (ensuite and separate) - there will be no need to queue to get a wash!!
Some of the best of Nozawaonsen’s famed public onsens are also just around the corner! Don’t forget to try soaking in therapeutic waters that will leave you feeling relaxed and recharged. The closest "soto-yu” or public baths within easy reach of Himecho are the iconic Oyu, the elevated Taki-no-yu and popular Asagama-no-yu. Since the Edo period, Nozawaonsen has been famed for its waters. You will often spot visitors and locals wandering around the village in yukatas - towels thrown around their necks and toting a basket of toileteries, on their way to enjoying the different waters. As a guest of Himecho@Yasushi, you are also welcome to try the private ”kashikiri”
onsens at Residence Yasushi.
Himecho@Yasushi is ideal for a private group. This villa offers the intimacy of a self-contained house with living spaces that provide comfortable areas to gather. You can enjoy board games together or chill out after an active day exploring the area.
Although Nozawaonsen’s restaurants offer a broad choice of cuisines on your doorstep, there may be days you'd like to prepare your own. Guests at Himecho@Yasushi will have access to basic kitchen facilities. Still, there is so much to tempt your palate. We have our firm favourites and encourage you to explore the many options Nozawaonsen offers! There are always exciting new places to try.
Our winter skiers will find the Yu Road travelator to the ski fields a short walk away. With the travelator overlooking our back garden, you’ll find yourself at the Hikage slopes in no time! Have fun! Nozawaonsen is home to over a dozen former Winter Olympians for good reason!!
In the green season, you can enjoy walks and bike rides through the village and forests behind. The majestic trees of the Yuzawa Shinto Shrine and Kenmei-ji Buddhist Temple complex lean over our back garden, but spectacular trees can be found all over the mountains. Nonetheless, in these hallowed grounds, a large zelkova tree said to be over 1,000 years old stands. It is revered in accordance with age old traditions. Old stone slabs carved with haikus by Matsuo Basho recall the wonders of these northern reaches of Honshu.
Himecho@Yasushi aims to bring you a taste of traditional rural Japan without foregoing the comforts of today's world. There is of course WiFi throughout the house and ample consideration for those needing to charge up their technological hardware! The entire property is also non-smoking for the comfort and health of our non-smoking guests. While you will have the privacy of an independent abode, a housekeeper will be able to help you on a day to day basis and throughout your stay, the concierge at Residence Yasushi will be at your service.
