Zazan Minakami (Formerly: Mizukami-kan)

Zazan Minakami, formerly Minakami-kan, occupies a dramatic position where the Tone River runs below and Mount Tanigawa rises beyond. The property is large, but its many bathing spaces break the experience into different views, materials and temperatures rather than one hotel bath.

Fifteen tubs include indoor and open-air bathing, private options, a sauna and selected rooms with their own open-air bath. Free-flowing water appears within the circuit, while river sound and mountain weather give each visit a different atmosphere.

Rooms range from traditional Japanese layouts to the newer Zaraku concept floor. Zazan suits groups who want bath-hopping and broad room choice in a scenic valley. Its strength is abundance and landscape; travellers seeking the quiet service rhythm of a very small ryokan may find the scale less personal.