Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Tanigawa mountain range in Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, lies a sanctuary of rare pedigree. Bettei Senjuan is one of a select few Japanese ryokans (traditional hot-spring inns) inducted into the prestigious Relais & Châteaux and The Ryokan Collection portfolios. Located just one hour from Tokyo’s Joetsu Shinkansen station via the nearby Jomo-Kogen station, it is a destination blessed with a pristine natural environment and renowned for its pure water sources.

Set within sprawling grounds of 16.6 hectares, the property houses just 18 exclusive guest suites. Every opulent room features a private open-air bath fed continuously by free-flowing gensen kakenagashi (volcanic hot springs). This absolute privacy allows guests to surrender their bodies to the curative waters at any moment, offering a level of seclusion suited to the traveller who understands the essence of indulgence.

The culinary experience is equally curated, with meals featuring strictly selected local seasonal ingredients served in 18 private dining rooms. From the garden that mirrors the four seasons to the spa, private sauna, library and bar, the facility is dotted with enchanting spaces that add profound depth to every stay.

A New Chapter in Holistic Wellness

In spring 2026, the property will launch resident retreats incorporating the expertise of Chiva-Som, Thailand’s legendary wellness resort. Designed under medical supervision, the programme centres on hot-spring immersion combined with breathwork, light exercise, nature excursions and local dietary culture to recalibrate both body and mind. This initiative is a modern sublimation of toji – Japan’s ancient tradition of hot-spring healing – that transforms travel into regeneration.

The Signature Five-Day Journey

The recommended itinerary is a comprehensive four-night, five-day course designed to reset the biological clock.

Opening Assessment

Utilising thermography and diverse data points, the team gains a clear picture of your current physical state. These metrics serve as a compass, determining the priorities for aligning the body.

Immersive Calibration

The healing environment meets curative action as guests restore their inner balance through morning meditation and yoga, shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and time in the hot-spring water. Recovery is accelerated through a combination of lectures, stretching, hydrogen inhalation and physiotherapy, bridging the gap between intellectual understanding and bodily sensation.

Final Re-evaluation and Review

Repeat testing confirms the physiological changes achieved during the stay. Before departure, a plan for the next 30 days is established to maintain momentum at home.

The Lasting Impact

Approximately one month later, the full results of the stay crystallise, and the experience’s true impact becomes clear. At this point, a 15-minute follow-up consultation with a doctor helps determine the next strategic steps.

For highflyers whose demanding schedules make physical and mental maintenance a significant challenge, this plan offers more than an escape. It is a catalyst – a way to reset one’s rhythm and set a course for even greater heights.

Visit Bettei Senjuan part of Relais & Châteaux

Text by Toshie Fujino