NIPPONIA Sawara Merchant Town Hotel

Just about 80 minutes from Tokyo to travel back in time to the Edo period. A nostalgic yet novel journey to experience history.

The historic merchant town of Sawara, a waterway hub that thrived during the Edo period connecting Tohoku and Edo, offers a nostalgic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With 600 years of history, its Edo-era streets invite you to immerse yourself in a timeless atmosphere. Our accommodations feature 4 buildings with 13 unique rooms scattered throughout the townscape. These include restored traditional structures such as former restaurants and storehouses, offering you a special stay surrounded by Japan's traditional architecture and echoes of Edo-period life. For dinner, enjoy French cuisine crafted with local sake, fresh ingredients from Chiba, and flavors inspired by the fermentation culture rooted in Boso-Sawara’s culinary heritage—the "kitchen" of Edo. We also offer exclusive experiences like visiting Katori Shrine, one of Japan's three great shrines. Discover an authentic journey through this historic town that can only be found here.

Introduction to VMG HOTELS & UNIQUE VENUES

VMG HOTELS & UNIQUE VENUES is a group brand that operates 20 Properties across The whole country, utilizing unique venues of high historical and cultural value scattered throughout towns. By envisioning entire towns, such as Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings, as a Hotel, the brand primarily develops decentralized Hotels nationwide. Our philosophy is to preserve these valuable buildings for future generations by transforming historical structures, which were once merely sightseeing attractions, into places where guests can actually stay. As a small-scale decentralized Hotel with a limited number of guest rooms, and with staff who blend into the town and carry on its history, we promise to offer a one-of-a-kind travel experience and meticulous hospitality.