The Oldest Hotel in the World, and one of the Oldest Companies as well
People are always wondering, what is the secret to a longstanding successful business. They take seminars, webminars, business courses, university classes, etc. One family in Japan though, seems to have it all figured out. There is not other alternative, since they have maintained a successful business for 1,300 years! Well yes, that is the actual number. 1,300 years, spanning across 52 generations. It is officially recognized by the Guinness Word Recors as the oldest hotel in the world. And is considered one of the oldest companies in operation.
We are referring to the Nishiyama Onsen Keiukan, a hot spring hotel at the foot of the Akaishi Mountains in Kyoto Japan.
“The history of the Keiunkan inn dates back 1300 years to the year 705AD (the 2nd year of the Keiun era), when Fujiwara Mahito founded the inn. Because it was founded in the Keiun era, the inn was thus named Keiunkan. The hot spring has flowed freely without interruption since then and is loved by many townsfolk, military commanders and cultured peoples as a secluded place deep in the mountains of the Kai region. Keiunkan, to this day, still embodies the unchanging hospitality of the heart of Japanese harmony for all of our guests.” As found on their website.
The hotel has been of course renovated in these last years but has succeeded in maintaining its original and historic character. Showcasing traditional tatami mat-floors, serving high quality, locally sourced Koshu beef and of course preserving their renowned hot springs.
In the Guinness World Records, Keiunkan is certified as the world’s most historical inn. — World’s Longest-Standing Inn Founded in 705AD—
“The Nishiyama Hot Spring, Keiunkan is said to have had many townsfolk and military commanders of the warring period visiting it. Amidst the unification of Japan after the warring period, it is said that Tokugawa Ieyasu visited twice. Later, it was called the secret hot spring of Takeda Shingen and Tokugawa Ieyasu. No matter how much time has passed, Keiunkan embodies the unchanging hospitality fueled by the spirit of Japanese harmony towards our guests.”
Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan: Website
