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The World’s Top 5 Oldest Hotels Still Welcoming Guests

Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Oct. 02, 2025
Discover the world’s top 5 oldest hotels, from Japan’s 1,300-year-old ryokans to Europe’s medieval inns, still offering history and luxury to travelers today.

Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan – Japan (est. 705 AD)

Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan-JapanFounded over 1,300 years ago, the hotel has been owned and managed by the same family for more than 50 generations. (Image: Keiunkan)

Located in Yamanashi Prefecture near Mount Fuji, Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest hotel in the world.

Founded over 1,300 years ago, it has been owned and managed by the same family for more than 50 generations. Renowned for its natural hot springs, the ryokan continues to welcome guests seeking a blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and wellness.

Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan-JapanObservatory bath, Hikou springs. (Image: Keiunkan)
Observatory outdoor bath, Boukei springsObservatory outdoor bath, Boukei springs
Suite with free-flowing open-air bath, KitadakeSuite with free-flowing open-air bath, Kitadake

Hōshi Ryokan – Japan (est. 718 AD)

Hōshi RyokanHōshi Ryokan in Komatsu, Japan, founded in 718 AD, is one of the world’s oldest hotels, blending traditional Japanese hospitality with centuries of history.

Not far behind is Hōshi Ryokan in Komatsu, Japan, established in 718 AD. Passed down through 46 generations, the inn is steeped in tradition, featuring tatami-matted rooms, kaiseki dining, and rejuvenating hot spring baths.

Guests often describe their stay as an immersion into Japanese culture and history.

Hōshi Ryokan RoomTatami rooms and natural hot springs define Hōshi Ryokan’s timeless charm, preserved through 46 generations of family ownership.
Hōshi Ryokan outdoorFounded over 1,300 years ago, Hōshi Ryokan continues to offer guests an authentic Japanese inn experience with serene gardens and onsen baths.

The Old Bell Hotel – United Kingdom (est. 1135 AD)

The Old Bell HotelThe Old Bell Hotel, established in 1135 AD beside Malmesbury Abbey, is England’s oldest hotel still in operation.

In Malmesbury, Wiltshire, The Old Bell Hotel claims the title of the oldest hotel in England.

Built for the monks of nearby Malmesbury Abbey, it has been hosting travelers since 1135 AD. With its timber beams and stone walls, the inn blends medieval charm with modern comforts.

The Old Bell Hotel roomBlending medieval stonework with modern luxury, The Old Bell Hotel has hosted guests for nearly 900 years.
The Old Bell HotelFounded for monks of Malmesbury Abbey, The Old Bell Hotel continues its legacy of English hospitality since the 12th century.

Zum Roten Bären – Germany (est. c. 1120 AD)

Zum Roten BärenZum Roten Bären, founded around 1120 AD in Freiburg, is recognized as Germany’s oldest inn still welcoming guests.

In the historic city of Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, Zum Roten Bären (The Red Bear Inn) dates back to around 1120 AD.

Known as the oldest inn in Germany, it has withstood medieval wars, invasions, and centuries of change.

Today, it continues to serve as both a hotel and a living relic of European history.

Zum Roten Bären roomGermany’s oldest guesthouse, Zum Roten Bären blends centuries-old charm with modern comfort in the heart of Freiburg.
Zum Roten BärenWith nearly 900 years of history, Zum Roten Bären has survived wars, invasions, and centuries of change while preserving its medieval character.

The Maids Head Hotel – United Kingdom (est. 1090s AD)

The Maids Head Hotel – United KingomDating back to the 1090s, The Maids Head Hotel is one of England’s oldest hotels, with a history of royal and noble guests.

Nestled in Norwich, England, The Maids Head Hotel traces its history back to the late 11th century.

Over the years, it has hosted monarchs and nobles, with records suggesting Queen Elizabeth I once stayed there. The property’s unique mix of medieval and modern architecture makes it a landmark in English hospitality.

The Maids Head Hotel – United KingomHistoric records suggest Queen Elizabeth I once stayed at The Maids Head Hotel, a landmark of English hospitality.
The Maids Head Hotel – United KingomThe Maids Head Hotel in Norwich blends medieval heritage with modern elegance, preserving over 900 years of hospitality.

A Legacy of Hospitality

These five hotels are more than places to stay, they are living museums. Each has preserved its legacy while adapting to the needs of today’s traveler, proving that true hospitality stands the test of time.