Matsumoto Jujo

Set in the historic Onsen town of Asama Onsen, this was an Accommodation that lets you enjoy not just “staying at an Accommodation,” but truly “staying in the town.”The map we received at check-in was wonderful, and with it in hand we used the Accommodation as our base to stroll around the Onsen town. Rather than everything being contained within the Accommodation, thoughtful touches make the entire town part of the journey—and even Asama Onsen’s gentle atmosphere became a cherished memory.The interior is refined yet relaxed, creating a comfortable space where you can unwind without pretense. The 24-hour book space is full of clever details that make even non-readers want to pick up a book. Our child was absorbed in the ball pit, and it felt like a place where both adults and children could enjoy their own time.The open-air bath in our room was excellent, but one of this Accommodation’s unique pleasures was taking a bucket and heading out to the public bath “Koyanagi-no-Yu.” The Onsen water is soft on the skin and warms you through to your core long after your soak—so soothing you’ll want to return again and again.Dinner was an immersive experience: watching the chef finish each dish right in front of us at the open kitchen while expertly working over a wood fire. The fragrant smokiness brought out each ingredient’s natural appeal, and every plate reflected careful craftsmanship. Centered on local ingredients, the cuisine isn’t about competing for extravagance—it values savoring this land’s climate and seasons with all five senses. It stayed with us as an experience you can only have here.The curated shop inside was also appealing. It carried Okubo Brewery seasonings used at dinner as well as Jiyujin original items, making souvenir shopping fun. We were happy to buy some granola we had at breakfast so we could relive a bit of our trip back home.The staff were warm and genuine; rather than excessive service, their unobtrusive support—being there exactly when needed—felt especially comfortable.More than for those seeking flashy luxury typical of an Onsen Ryokan, this is an Accommodation I’d recommend to anyone who wants “true richness” and who wants to enjoy staying itself while connecting with local culture.Above all, true to an Accommodation created by Jiyujin, we could feel throughout our stay their commitment not just to this single place but to carrying Asama Onsen as a whole into the future. Visiting with that context makes time spent here feel even more special.It’s an Accommodation that made us want to return in another season—to meet a different face of this town.

I had some free time, so I stayed for one night and two days. The delicious food and paired drinks, the book-filled space, and the Room with a great view made for an amazing getaway!The staff were very thoughtful and responded sincerely even to small questions, which made my trip truly comfortable and enjoyable.Next time I visit, I’d like to make more time to stay longer!