[2025 Komatsu Stay] Travel Guide for Hoshi (Updated Mar)

Hidden in the Hokuriku region of Japan is a place that can transport you through time—Hōshi Ryokan. More than just an inn, it's a living testament to history, quietly narrating tales of over 1,300 years. A Thousand Years of Splendor: Echoes of History In 718 AD, during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, the high monk Taicho discovered a hot spring here and built an inn, marking the origin of Hōshi. Through countless dynasties and the passage of time, it has been passed down through 46 generations. Although once recognized by Guinness as the world's oldest hotel (now second), its charm remains undiminished. Stepping into the inn is like stepping into the river of history. The courtyard, known as the "Little Kenrokuen," offers picturesque scenery with every step, changing with the seasons. The "Hōjucho" plaque hanging in the lobby silently speaks of the passage of time. The dark brown wood of the roof comes from the Genkan-dō, a national treasure of Japan built in 1883, exuding an antique aura. The Enmeikaku, located in the center of the courtyard, is a tangible cultural property of Japan and a breathtaking beauty, witnessing the arrival and departure of countless visitors. A Hot Spring Feast: Nourishment for Body and Soul Hōshi's hot springs are exceptional, with water suitable for both bathing and drinking. A dedicated outlet by the bath allows guests to draw water. Imagine sipping warm spring water while soaking, letting the warmth spread from your tongue throughout your body, instantly dispelling fatigue. In the evening, the shop offers Kutani-yaki pottery experiences (for just ¥1,000–2,000), allowing you to create a unique souvenir of your journey. After your soak, head to the lounge for some relaxation. Read manga, enjoy delicious instant noodles, or practice calligraphy, finding peace and tranquility amidst the fragrance of ink and Zen. The Beauty of Lodging and Dining: A Culinary and Dreamlike Adventure Hōshi's overnight stay with two meals offers a comprehensive experience of traditional Japanese cuisine and hospitality. For around ¥15,000 per person, savor exquisite kaiseki meals, each dish a work of art, satisfying both the palate and the eyes. Fresh ingredients and unique culinary techniques make every bite a deep dive into Japanese food culture. The rooms are designed with Japanese aesthetics: tatami mats, wooden furniture, and sliding paper doors create a warm and peaceful atmosphere. Sleeping in such a room feels like time slows down, promising a refreshing new day after a good night's sleep. Helpful Guide: Worry-Free Travel If you plan to check in to Hōshi, remember to book the shuttle bus a day in advance. Whether from Kaga Onsen Station (Shinkansen) or Awazu Station (Ishikawa Railway), you can easily reach the inn. This thoughtful service makes your journey more convenient and comfortable. When visiting the Hokuriku region, make Hōshi Ryokan a must-see on your itinerary. Stay a night, embrace history, soak in the hot springs, and experience the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity. Trust me, it will be an unforgettable travel experience!

Hey guys, today I want to recommend an amazing hot spring resort - Awazu Onsen Hoshi! As soon as I stepped in, I was deeply attracted by the simple and elegant architectural style, as if I had traveled to a quiet paradise. When I walked into the room, wow, there was a soft mattress on the tatami, and outside the window were lush green plants. The breeze was blowing gently, and the leaves were rustling, which made me feel relaxed. The hot spring is the highlight! The hot spring pools are of various sizes, and the water is clear and bright, steaming hot. Soaking in it, I felt completely relaxed, as if all my fatigue was taken away by the warm spring water. Moreover, the hot spring here is rich in various minerals, which is great for the skin. After soaking, my skin was smooth and tender, as if it had been nourished. The food is also amazing! Fresh seafood and exquisite Japanese cuisine, every dish is mouth-watering. Enjoying the beautiful scenery outside the window while eating is a great pleasure in life. In short, Awazu Onsen Hoshi is a place that makes people reluctant to leave. Here, you can relax your body and mind and enjoy a wonderful time. Guys, bring your family and friends and come here to start a healing journey! (Heart gesture)

Today we visited "Hoshi", one of the only three thousand-year-old hot spring inns left in Japan. From Kaga Onsen Station, we took the shuttle bus provided by the hotel and quickly arrived at "Hoshi". After entering the entrance hall, you will see many furnishings: Bodhidharma, Buddha statues, and more porcelain... Bathing in the corridor leading to the guest room, you will see more artistic and time-honored exhibits, which are dazzling... The most amazing thing is its courtyard: in the evening, the sunlight penetrates the branches and leaves and sprinkles on the moss plants at the foot of the tree, instantly injecting life into them, as if their time has just begun. As I walked, it seemed like the courtyard would never end. It was like a new world after a dark tunnel. The "single room" allocated by the master to the guest was really generous. After entering the room, the only reaction was "wow". Maybe the ancients needed such a large space to live! Dinner was no less impressive, both the sashimi and wagyu were delicious. I even think the sashimi is slightly better than the one at the sushi restaurant in Ginza last night! "Master" and another hotel I stayed in before, "Qingyun Pavilion", are both thousand-year-old hot spring hotels, each with its own characteristics and merits. There is nothing to say about the hot springs at Qingyun Hall. The six different temperatures throughout the hall are definitely the first choice for hot spring lovers! Although "Master" cannot be compared with "Qingyun Pavilion" in terms of hot springs, its courtyard is definitely one of the best in the hot spring world. If you want to explore the Japanese garden where Tokugawa Iemitsu once strolled, "Hoshi" is the best choice.