Hotel hospitality to travellers have been a feature of the earliest civilizations. In Greco-Roman culture and ancient Persia, hospitals for recuperation and rest were built at thermal baths. Japan's Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, founded in 705, was officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as the oldest hotel in the world. During the Middle Ages, various religious orders at monasteries and abbeys would offer accommodation for travellers on the road. The precursor to the modern hotel was the inn of medieval Europe, possibly dating back to the rule of Ancient Rome. These would provide for the needs of travellers, including food and
Geto Onsen Geto Onsen Geto Onsen is a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) with "onsen" - natural hot spring baths. It was founded in 1134 and is located in Kitakami, Iwate Prefecture, Japan. The area is in the center of Kurikoma Quasi-National Park and the hotel is located near the narrow and shallow river with a crystal clear water. There are 5 baths with a fine hot water and also colder water coming from underground springs. Hotel rooms are simple, but comfortable with traditional tatami and can be rented for a few hours to rest after the bathing. Some tourists come not only