Yamagen Stay & Retreat

The Nakasendo an ancient road walked by travelers since the Edo period. At its 60th post town, you'll find Yamagen Stay & Retreat, a 120-year-old kominka we have lovingly restored. At the heart of what we do is connection and experience. If you'd like, we cook together. On a walk, we forage for wild plants and fry them in tempura batter. We shave the katsuobushi — dried bonito — and make miso soup from scratch. That one extra step makes the world come alive. The space We renovated this kominka almost entirely by hand, with guidance from professionals, guided by the hope that guests with chemical sensitivities and wheelchair users would feel equally welcome. The guest room is on the ground floor with a built-in ramp. The vanity is designed with clearance beneath for wheelchair access. There are no steps inside. Doorways are wide. We use persimmon tannin, charcoal, and beeswax finishes throughout, and no fabric softeners. We recommend a maximum of 2 adults and 1 child. Guest access Guests have access to the guest room, private bathroom, doma lounge, and garden. The second floor and part of the first floor are our private family quarters. Other things to note Meals are not included. But if you'd like, we'd love to cook together and share a meal. Yamagen is our home — we live here, and you'll hear the sounds of daily life. Guest rooms are divided by shoji and fusuma screens, not solid walls. Sound travels. We have children in the house. This is not a hotel. If you're looking for that kind of comfort and privacy, this probably isn't the right fit. If you're looking for something more like staying with a family in a 120-year-old Japanese house — we'd love to have you. This is about 120-year-old house with areas that may be hazardous for young children, and fixtures that cannot be replaced if damaged. We ask that children are supervised at all times. Parents or guardians are responsible for any injuries or damage that may occur. Please feel free to ask us about anything before booking. Please note that we do not provide personal care or assistance services. That said, if you need help with anything during your stay, don't hesitate to ask. Registration Details Hotels and Inns Business Act | 滋賀県長浜保健所 | 第16号