The Provenance Museum ®

Hōshi Ryokan is one of the world’s oldest continuously operating businesses and the oldest continually run family business. Founded in AD 718 in Awazu Onsen, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, the inn traces its origins to the Buddhist monk Taichō, who is said to have discovered a healing hot spring and entrusted its care to his disciple, Garyō Hōshi. The Hōshi family subsequently established an inn beside the spring, beginning a tradition that has continued for more than 1,300 years.

Over forty-six generations, the Hōshi family has preserved the ryokan’s commitment to traditional Japanese hospitality (omotenashi), welcoming travelers, pilgrims, merchants, and dignitaries while adapting to the changing needs of each era. The inn grew from a simple therapeutic lodging into one of Japan’s most celebrated hot-spring destinations.

Although it was once considered the world’s oldest hotel, that distinction is now generally attributed to Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan (founded in 705). Hōshi Ryokan nevertheless remains remarkable for its uninterrupted family stewardship and is widely recognized as the oldest continuously operated family business in the world.