Shima Onsen "Sekizenkan" (Nakanojo Town, Gunma Prefecture, Japan) is rumored to be an inspiration for Spirited Away, with at least three locations strikingly similar to scenes from the film!
As Japan’s oldest surviving hot spring inn, the Main Building offers budget-friendly rates perfect for therapeutic soaks. The Sanso (Mountain Villa) is a nationally registered tangible cultural property, brimming with historical charm, while the Kashotei provides a luxurious, high-end experience. Whatever your budget or preferences, there’s an accommodation option for you!
Inspiration for Spirited Away? Exploring Sekizenkan’s Allure
Sekizenkan garners attention for its resemblance to scenes in Spirited Away. Though not officially confirmed by Studio Ghibli, its unique architecture and atmosphere spark the imagination. The inn comprises three distinct buildings:
- Main Building: With its green roof, this is Japan’s oldest hot spring inn, steeped in history.
- Sanso: Nestled among trees, this nationally registered cultural property exudes traditional beauty.
- Kashotei: Beige exterior, offering premium comfort and luxury.
Nearby, the well-known “Shima Tamura” inn joins Sekizenkan as a hallmark of the Shima Onsen Arayu area.
Immerse Yourself in the Mystical World of Spirited Away
Sekizenkan features three locations reminiscent of Spirited Away:
- Red Arch Bridge: The bridge in front of the Main Building closely resembles the one leading to the bathhouse in Spirited Away, exuding Japanese charm.
- Genroku no Yu Bathhouse: The wooden structure beside the bridge is said to resemble the maid rooms in the film’s bathhouse (unfortunately, this area is not open to the public).
- Corridor Tunnel: The tunnel connecting parts of the inn feels like the entrance to the spirit world from the film’s opening, sparking wonder.
Musical Journey: On the national highway leading to Shima Onsen, special grooves in the road play the melody of Spirited Away’s theme song, “Always With Me,” when driven over at a certain speed. Gunma Prefecture boasts 11 such “melody roads,” adding fun to your trip.
Hot Spring Paradise: Savor a Soak Tour
Sekizenkan offers a diverse array of hot spring facilities:
- Genroku no Yu: The Main Building’s historic indoor baths, separate for men and women, available for day-use visitors.
- Iwa-buro: A unique mixed-gender rock bath for a distinctive experience.
- Sanso no Yu: Two private family baths in the Sanso, offering cozy comfort.
- Mori no Yu: Kashotei’s open-air bath with expansive views, accessible to all guests.
- Seki and Zen: Paid semi-open-air private baths for an exclusive soak.
Guests can freely explore the inn’s various baths, indulging in ultimate relaxation.
Historical Tour: A Journey Through Time
The guest-exclusive historical tour, led by the inn’s elderly owner, is vibrant and varied, covering the Main Building’s legacy as Japan’s oldest hot spring inn, its renovations, and more. Guests can ask questions during the tour to dive deeper into Sekizenkan’s story. If this tour is offered during your stay, don’t miss it!
In recent years, Sekizenkan has illuminated its exterior at dusk, transforming its traditional architecture into a dreamy spectacle, making it a must-see attraction in Shima Onsen.
