Araya Totoan is a time-honoured traditional Ryokan located in Yamashiro Onsen, Hokuriku’s famed hot springs. The Ryokan’s history goes back eighteen generations to the Edo period, when the Maeda Family Feudal Lord ordered the founder of Araya to be master of the hot springs resort. It is said that previous Ryokan master of the inn, Gen’emon XV, supported the work of famed Kitaoji Rosanjin, who was still an unknown artist at the time, by commissioning signs and other work. The lobby signage, exuding an atmosphere of quietude, is also by Rosanjin, and his work can be found throughout the premises. One pride feature of the accommodation is the fresh hot spring water, which continually flows from its source only ten meters (33 feet) underground. The term “Totoan” actually means place where the hot springs flow well and freely. The source produces about 100,000 liters (over 26,000 gallons) of hot water a day, making it the largest in Yamashiro. The Japanese garden seen from the guest rooms was created in the Kan'ei era, using precious trees and natural stones collected from all over Japan, in a style known as the “mountain pond style,” and still retains the aesthetics of that time. In the guest rooms that feature semi- outside (Rotenburo) baths, you can enjoy bathing while gazing at the surrounding nature, as it changes its appearance with the seasons.

Araya Totoan

http://www.araya-totoan.com/