JIZAIKAN(自在館)― A 400-Year-Legacy of Onsen-Toji Retreat Deep in the Mountains of Niigata
A Timeless Sanctuary of Healing

Where History Meets Holistic Wellness Jizaikan: A 400-Year-Old <em>Toji</em> Retreat in Tochiomata Onsen, Niigata Prefecture

Introduction

About JIZAIKAN(自在館)

According to legend, these waters were first discovered in the 8th century by the Buddhist monk Gyoki. For over 400 years, JIZAIKAN(自在館)has served as a guardian of this sacred spring. Nestled within the grounds stands the Yakushido temple, protected by sacred trees over four centuries old. Here, the Medicine Buddha (薬師如来) watches over the springs—historically revered as "Waters of Vitality" and "Springs of Fertility." We have proudly passed down the mantle of Yumori (湯守) through generations to protect this therapeutic legacy, and today, we serve as the 25th generation of guardians. We believe that our history has only been possible because of the countless guests who have traveled here for healing and Toji(湯治). For your continued support over the centuries, we are deeply and humbly grateful.

This ceaselessly flowing hot spring is not ours to own, but a precious gift entrusted to us by the Earth. Our philosophy as Yumori (hot spring guardians) is simple: to share this water with you in its purest, most natural state. We remain devoted to preserving this sanctuary so that it continues to be a cherished place of refuge for you. We look forward to walking this path with you for many years to come.

With gratitude,
The Yumori (湯守) Team at Jizaikan(自在館)

The Warmth of
the Taisho Wing(大正棟)

Architecture that breathes with the cycle of nature and the land.

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A Centennial Heritage

The Taisho Wing

Living History

Facility overview:Three-story wooden building, Zazen room, Library

Room overview:4rooms/3type:All rooms are Japanese-style with tatami mats.

Our heritage building, the "Taisho Wing(大正棟)," marks its 100th anniversary. We have carefully renovated it to preserve its original spirit and carry it forward into the next century.

It is a space that evokes the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese home—a sanctuary designed for admiring both history and nature. In winter, you can fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the snowscape.

Staying here offers a genuine connection to the Japanese aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi—finding beauty in history, simplicity, and imperfection.

For those seeking inner clarity, we also host Zazen (seated meditation) sessions twice a month on Thursdays.

Meditation Space

Zazen Experience

Sessions twice a month on Thursdays.
It is held regularly twice a month on Thursdays from 16:00 to 17:00.
Please note that the schedule may change. Check the event calendar for updates.
If you check in on a Thursday, please make sure to arrive by 15:00.
A resident monk from Uonuma City will provide an explanation of zazen and support during the session.
The participation fee of 1,000 yen for the mini-lecture should be offered directly to the monk as a donation.

Please be quiet

Library

Coworking Space

Hours of Operation: around 7:00–21:00

Planned Opening: Reading Room & Quiet Workspace We are preparing to open this area as a space for reading and focused work. Please note that this is a designated silent area, and we kindly ask guests to refrain from conversation. Due to the historic wooden structure, sound carries easily. We invite you to cherish this serenity and enjoy a moment of deep tranquility.

Taisho Modern Japanese-style room

Solo Retreat

3rd floors of the Taisho Wing(Room 72)

Max Capacity: 1 Guest

Layout: One-Room · Tatami Room with Futon Bedding,
Writing Desk, Private Toilet *No in-room bath (Public Onsen & 45-min Free Private Onsen available)

Amenities: Safe, Electric Kettle, Mini Fridge

This historic structure from the Taisho era has been renovated into a sanctuary specifically for the modern solo Toji(湯治) traveler.
It is a simple, serene Japanese-style room located on the corner of the 3rd floor.
Gaze out at the changing seasons framed by the window and savor the luxury of complete solitude.

― Important Notes Before Booking ―

Access to this room requires climbing steep stairs. Please refrain from bringing large suitcases or heavy luggage.
As this is a wooden structure built in the Taisho era, sound insulation is not perfect. Sounds from the hallway or neighboring rooms may be audible. We do not recommend this room for light sleepers.
To ensure a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, there is no television in this room.
We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 13 years of age (junior high school age) in this wing.
Meals are served exclusively in the dining hall. Due to the steep stairs, we are unable to provide room service. Thank you for your understanding.

Taisho Modern Japanese-style room

Maisonette Suite

2nd and 3rd floors of the Taisho Wing(Room 57 or 58)

Max Capacity: 1-2 people

Layout: Two-Story · Tatami Room with Futon Bedding,
Writing Desk, Private Toilet *No in-room bath (Public Onsen & 45-min Free Private Onsen available)

Amenities: Small refrigerator, hair dryer, kettle, stand lamp

This historic structure, preserving the nostalgic charm of the Taisho era, has been renovated into a Maisonette (two-story) style suite designed for the modern Toji experience.
Located across the 2nd and 3rd floors of the Taisho Wing, the lower level features a traditional Tatami living room, while the upper level offers a cozy, intimate bedroom. Enjoy a heartwarming stay wrapped in the comfort of history.

― Important Notes Before Booking ―

Access to this room requires climbing steep stairs. Please refrain from bringing large suitcases or heavy luggage.
As this is a wooden structure built in the Taisho era, sound insulation is not perfect. Sounds from the hallway or neighboring rooms may be audible. We do not recommend this room for light sleepers.
To ensure a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, there is no television in this room.
We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 13 years of age (junior high school age) in this wing.
Meals are served exclusively in the dining hall. Due to the steep stairs, we are unable to provide room service. Thank you for your understanding.

Taisho Modern Japanese-style room

Japanese Twin Suite

3rd floors of the Taisho Wing(Room 68)

Max Capacity: 1-2 people

Layout: Two-Room · Tatami Room with Low-Profile 2 Beds,
Private Toilet *No in-room bath (Public Onsen & 45-min Free Private Onsen available)

Amenities: Hair dryer, small refrigerator, kettle

This historic structure from the Taisho era has been renovated into a two-room Tatami suite designed for the modern Toji experience.
It is a corner room located on the 3rd floor.
One room features modern Japanese-style chairs where you can relax and admire the scenery from the window.
The adjoining room is furnished with low-profile beds, offering a spacious and comfortable environment for rest.
Enjoy a soothing stay surrounded by the nostalgic charm of a bygone era.

― Important Notes Before Booking ―

Access to this room requires climbing steep stairs. Please refrain from bringing large suitcases or heavy luggage.
As this is a wooden structure built in the Taisho era, sound insulation is not perfect. Sounds from the hallway or neighboring rooms may be audible. We do not recommend this room for light sleepers.
To ensure a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, there is no television in this room.
We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 13 years of age (junior high school age) in this wing.
Meals are served exclusively in the dining hall. Due to the steep stairs, we are unable to provide room service. Thank you for your understanding.

Toji reflects a cultural practice
of finding balance and well-being
through extended time in hot spring settings.

At Tochiomata Onsen Jizaikan, we have been practicing “self-care” through Toji (therapeutic hot spring bathing) for at least 400 years.
Times have changed, and many things have evolved. Yet, what remains unchanged is the importance of taking care of oneself. Even today, many visit us seeking a quiet refuge for convalescence and deep rest.

Descend into silence.
A long journey back in time.

As you descend the long flight of paulownia steps, you leave the world behind and arrive deep in the valley floor. Here, accompanied only by the murmuring of the stream, lies "Reisen no Yu," built directly atop the source.
The 36°C (95°F) radium hot spring water gushes forth ceaselessly. Immerse yourself in the ancient tradition of "Nagayu"—soaking for hours in the lukewarm water. Listening to the singing of birds and the sound of the spring, enjoy a profound sense of returning to nature.

The large public bath facility "Reisen no Yu" consists of "Shita no Yu," "Ue no Yu," and "Oku no Yu."
These are shared baths for the three inns of Tochiomata Onsen.
You can also drink the spring water at each bath.

Tochiomata Public Bath

Large Public Bath "Reisen no Yu"

Shita no Yu / Ue no Yu / Oku no Yu

Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
※Cleaning may occur during the day, but other large baths are available during cleaning times.

Gender Rotation: Daily

Spring Quality: Simple Radioactivity Spring (Hypotonic Alkaline Hot Spring)

Indications: Hyperuricemia (Gout), Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Autonomic Instability, Health Promotion

Source Temp: Approx. 36°C  pH: 8.6 (Alkaline)

Radon Content: 185×10-10Ci/kg (50.9 Mache)

Tochiomata No.1 Spring / 100% Free-Flowing Source
※Flows directly into the tub without heating. ※The finishing water (Agari-yu) is heated.

― Important Notes & Requests ―

"Shita no Yu," "Ue no Yu," and "Oku no Yu" rotate between men and women daily.
"Shita no Yu" has only one small washing station. We strongly recommend (especially for female guests) washing your hair and body in your room, or at "Ue no Yu," "Oku no Yu," or the Private Baths ("Tanuki" or "Usagi") before using this bath.
The use of electronic devices such as smartphones, e-readers, and cameras is strictly prohibited in the baths.
Preschool children are not permitted in "Shita no Yu," "Ue no Yu," or "Oku no Yu." Please use the Private Baths.

― About Tattoos ―

Guests with tattoos cannot use the large public baths.Guests with tattoos must use the private baths (reservation required).However, small tattoos can be covered with surgical tape, allowing you to use the public baths. (Please bring your own tape.)Bathing with visible tattoos is not allowed.

Private Onsen
― Free / 45 min ―

Reservations can be made in advance using the tablet in your room.
*One session lasts 45 minutes per bath.Please be punctual.

Guest Reviews

"This was my 32nd visit to a hidden hot spring, and I was truly surprised. So this is 'modern Toji'. First of all, the food is amazing. Even without expensive ingredients, the taste is outstanding!..."

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Guest Reviews

"Four days of just soaking in the hot spring, no sightseeing. Deep in the greenery, the sound of the river, birds chirping, cicadas... At first, it was hard to just do nothing, but day by day, my daily tension melted away, and I could relax..."

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Guest Reviews

"Thank you for the delicious meals. I haven't been able to visit due to my cancer treatment. But somehow, I feel like I've returned to my hometown. I have no relatives left. The time spent quietly surrounded by trees, listening to the sound of the stream, is the best. I will come again..."

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House Rules and Services

Jizaikan(自在館) is a Toji(hot spring therapy) inn for the purpose of rest and recuperation.
In order to protect the time of "silence" here, we have established several rules.
We ask for your cooperation.

This is a secluded inn with nothing in the surrounding area. We do not have lavish decorations or excessive customer service.
What we do have is the hot spring that has been gushing out since ancient times, and the "margin" of time to leave the hustle and bustle of the city and return to your true self. We hope that you will have a comfortable stay by adding a touch of sincerity to this silent space.
Please be quiet inside the building and in the bathrooms.

Please be quiet inside the building and in the bathrooms.

Especially in the "Taisho Wing," which is a wooden building about 100 years old, sound echoes easily. You may hear sounds of daily life from other guest rooms and footsteps in the hallway.
The entire building is non-smoking.

The entire building is non-smoking.

The entire building, including electronic cigarettes, is non-smoking. Also, due to the wooden structure, the use of fire is strictly prohibited.
We do not serve general Ryokan Kaiseki cuisine. It is a <em>Toji</em> meal designed for health balance for the purpose of recuperation.

Not lavish Kaiseki cuisine.

Our meals are "Toji" meals designed for health balance and recuperation. Unlike general ryokan kaiseki cuisine, the content is closer to Japanese home cooking.
※Please consult us in advance about allergies; accommodations are not guaranteed. We do not offer special meals for personal preferences (e.g., vegan, religious). Thank you for your understanding.

Language Support

Language Support

We do not have staff who can speak foreign languages.Communication will be assisted using a translation app.
Wireless LAN (Optical line): Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms and common spaces, except for some areas.

Internet Environment

Wireless LAN (Optical line): Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms and common spaces, except for some areas.
※However, please refrain from bringing smartphones or tablets into the public baths.
Tatami Fitness Room

Tatami Fitness Room

There is a "Fitness Room" in the hall on the basement floor of the main building. You can also do yoga and stretching exercises in the spacious tatami space.
|Fee: ¥1,100/person
|Time: 9:00 - 19:00
※We operate on a time system (rotation) so that more people can use it. Please inquire in advance if you wish to use it.

Facilities & Services Overview

Video & Photo Gallery
Guest Rooms Main Building 22 rooms / Taisho Wing 4 rooms
Onsen Facilities Gender-segregated public baths (Reisen no Yu): "Shita no Yu", "Ue no Yu", "Oku no Yu"
Private Baths: "Tanuki no Yu", "Usagi no Yu"
Private Open-air Bath: "Ukezu no Yu"
Dining Area Both breakfast and dinner are served in the dining area.
We also offer lunch for guests staying multiple nights. Additional food and drink charges will be settled at checkout.

Bringing alcohol into the dining area will incur a corkage fee of 2,000 yen.

Please consult us in advance about allergies; accommodations are not guaranteed. We do not offer special meals for personal preferences (e.g., vegan, religious). Thank you for your understanding.

Others Tochiomata Yakushido Hall/Irori Hut, Lobby/Irori Lounge, Shop, Zazen Room, Library, Fitness Room, Coin Laundry, Shared Toilet (with bidet) & Washbasin
Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) Available

However, please refrain from bringing smartphones or tablets into the public baths.

Air Conditioning Available

However, as this is a snow country, it gets very cold in winter. Please bring a fleece or light down jacket to wear inside the building.

Rental Items Hair dryer, Go, Shogi
Amenities Towel, Samue (work clothes), Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Soap, Razor, Toothbrush, Sewing Set, Coffee/Tea
Pre-payment Credit Card: PayPal (Visa / Mastercard / JCB / American Express / Diners Club / Discover / UnionPay)
On-site Payment Credit Card: VISA / MasterCard / JCB
Electronic Payment (Japan domestic services): PayPay / d-barai / Merpay etc.
Check-in Around 15:00

Please contact us if your arrival will be after 17:00.

Check-out Around 11:00
Shuttle Bus (Reservation Required) We operate a shuttle bus to "Urasa Station (JR Joetsu Shinkansen)".

It does not operate if there are no reservations. If you wish to use it, please make a reservation by the day before arrival.

It only operates at specific times. Please check "Shuttle Bus Information" before booking.

JIZAIKAN Video Guide

Video Gallery
Watch more Jizaikan videos

Directions to the Detached Baths

Directions to "Reisen Shita no Yu"

Directions to Private Baths
"Usagi no Yu" & "Tanuki no Yu"

Directions to Private Open-Air Bath
"Ukezu no Yu"

Jizaikan Today

News Facebook Instagram YouTube

About Accommodation Rates and Reservation Method

Reservation Flow: Temporary Reservation → Availability Check & Reply Email → Pre-payment → Reservation Confirmed

    About Bathing Tax

    In addition to consumption tax, a bathing tax will be added.
    This is a local tax imposed on those who use hot spring facilities.

  • Adults: ¥150 per night (per person)
  • Children (6 years old and above, elementary school students): ¥100 per night (per person)

    About Consecutive Stay Discount & Seasonal Rates

  • Consecutive Stay Discount: Available. If you stay for 2 or 3 nights, the rate per night will be significantly cheaper. Please check the reservation screen for details.
  • Rates may vary depending on days before holidays, long holidays, and seasons. Please check the reservation screen for details.

    Cancellation Fees

    29 to 15 days before: 30%
    14 to 7 days before: 50%
    6 days before to Arrival Day, or No Show: 100%
  • Up to 30 days before arrival date: No cancellation fee.
  • We cannot accept cancellations via email. We apologize, but you can operate it online up to 2 days before. After that, we can only accept cancellations by phone.
  • Reservations for customers living overseas are generally pre-paid by credit card (PayPal).
  • Refunds will be made in Japanese Yen. Any difference due to exchange rates or remittance fees will be borne by the customer.

Contact

Inquiry form
Contact
*Reservations cannot be made here.
FAQ
FAQ
*Please also refer to this before making an inquiry.
Address
Tochiomata Onsen, Uonuma City, Niigata 946-0087, Japan

By Car


About 20 minutes from Uonuma IC (R352)
From Tokyo
Tokyo - (Kan-Etsu Expressway: 3h 20m) - Uonuma IC
From Niigata
Niigata - (Kan-Etsu Expressway: 1h 20m) - Uonuma IC

    From around June every year, the Oze route from Uonuma by boat opens.

    The Oze route from Tochiomata has few ups and downs, making it gentle for beginners in trekking and those who are not confident in their physical strength. The vast nature of Oze shows beautiful scenery in each season. Oze in autumn, with its pastoral scenery, is also recommended. Furthermore, if you go to Oze from Tochiomata, the autumn foliage of Okutadami is also magnificent. The autumn leaves of Oze's grass start from mid-September, and Okutadami/Ginzandaira starts from mid-October.

    Let's Visit Oze Route
    (Oze Route Activation Committees)

    Information on Snow Roads

    Snow removal is carried out from highways and major national roads to Tochiomata Onsen, so you can pass through as usual even in winter, but National Route 352 and National Route 252 at the prefectural border connecting Fukushima to Niigata are closed in winter.

  • Route 352: Usually from early November to mid-June
  • Route 252: Usually from late December to early May
  • The period varies depending on the climate of the year, so please check "Uonuma City Tourism Association - Traffic Regulation Information" before you come.

    Traffic Restriction
    Information
    (Uonuma City Tourism Association)
    Weather forecast
    for Uonuma City
     (Japan Meteorological Agency) 
 

By Shinkansen / Train / Bus

About 30 min by taxi from Urasa Station *Shuttle available from Urasa Station (Reservation required)
About 15 min by taxi or 35 min by bus from Koide Station
From Tokyo Station
Tokyo - (Joetsu Shinkansen: 1h 30m) - Urasa - (Joetsu Line: 8m) - Koide
From Niigata Station
Niigata - (Joetsu Shinkansen: 40m) - Urasa - (Joetsu Line: 8m) - Koide

Shuttle Bus (Reservation Required)

Urasa Station-Jizaikan

Please make a reservation by the day before your arrival.

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To the Inn

  • Train: Toki 319 (Departs Tokyo Station at 11:40) → Arrives at Urasa Station at 13:10
  • Shuttle Pickup: Meet at the tourist information center near the ticket gate (around 13:20)
  • Arrival at Jizaikan: Around 14:10

From the Inn

  • Departure: Jizaikan departs around 11:30
  • Arrival at Urasa Station: Around 12:30–12:40, connecting to Toki 320 (Departs Urasa Station at 13:01)
  • Stopover: A short visit to a souvenir shop (approx. 15 minutes, only when open)
  • Note: Departure times may be adjusted, especially in winter, due to road conditions.

Local Bus Information

Koide Station-Tochiomata Onsen

*Schedules are subject to change, and service may be suspended during certain periods. Please check the official public transport website for the latest "Timetable / Fare" information.

Prayers for Fertility at Tochiomata Yakushido

The unveiling of the Buddhist image is held annually on the evening of May 7th, the morning of May 8th, the evening of November 7th, and the morning of November 8th.