Hotels + Resorts The World's Oldest Hotel Has Been in the Same Family for 52 Generations By Andrea Romano Andrea Romano Twitter Website Andrea Romano is a writer and editor in New York City. For the last eight years, she has been a lifestyle journalist for Mashable, Brit+Co, Reviewed, and Bustle. For Travel + Leisure, she has used her experience as a writer and pop culture aficionado to discover many interesting destinations including unique Airbnbs and pop-up restaurants that have a nostalgic or pop culture twist. In addition to travel writing, she writes and performs comedy around New York City and spends her free time exploring places both at home and abroad. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on May 25, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email The hotel industry goes back way further than you might think. Sure, there are classic properties in historic cities such as Paris and Rome, but there's an inn in Japan that has those places beat by centuries. Courtesy of JNTO The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, a Japanese resort not far from Mount Fuji, has been in business since 705 A.D. The hotel has been passed down within the same family for 52 generations. Guinness World Records has officially recognized it as the oldest continuously running hotel in the world. In 705 AD, Fujiwara Mahito founded the inn and his family have been experts in the hospitality industry ever since. Although the inn has undergone quite a bit of modernization and upkeep over the years, the main attractions, namely the soothing hot springs and gorgeous views, have remained the center of its appeal. Courtesy of JNTO Courtesy of JNTO Many people, from historical samurai to A-list celebrities and politicians, have come to the inn for its history and healing waters. Keiunkan's famous bath, Mochitani no Yu, has water fed directly from the hot springs. Guests are invited to drink directly from the springs as well. Courtesy of JNTO Courtesy of JNTO The hotel itself has 37 rooms, all decorated in the traditional Japanese style. Prices begin at $408 per night. For more information on booking a trip, visit the Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan website. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit