This real-life ryokan feels just like Spirited Away

Sekizenkan, a historic onsen escape in Gunma Prefecture, might be the most spectacular place I’ve ever been to. Tucked away in the forested mountains of central Japan, this isn’t just a traditional ryokan — it’s a step into another world. Founded in 1691, Sekizenkan is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring inns, and walking through its red bridge and wooden halls feels like entering a scene from a Ghibli film (it’s often said to have inspired Spirited Away). What makes it special? Timeless atmosphere. The moment you arrive, you're surrounded by forested hills, fresh air, and architecture that has stood the test of centuries. Inside, the ryokan offers tatami-mat rooms, peaceful hot spring baths (onsen), and the kind of calm that only comes from slow, quiet places. You can enjoy a truly unforgettable onsen experience with both indoor and open-air baths, all fed by natural hot springs. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. 🍱 If you stay, traditional kaiseki meals are served — multi-course Japanese dinners made with seasonal, local ingredients, beautifully prepared and presented. 📸 Don’t miss the chance to take photos of the iconic arched red bridge and the historic wooden corridors — especially in autumn or winter, when the scenery feels extra cinematic. 🌙 And when night falls, Sekizenkan becomes even more enchanting. With the lights glowing and steam rising from the baths, the whole place transforms — you genuinely feel like Chihiro stepping into the world of Spirited Away. 🗺️ Sekizenkan is located in Shima Onsen, reachable by train and bus from Tokyo in about 3 hours. It’s well worth the journey if you’re looking for authentic onsen culture, deep rest, and a sense of timeless Japan.