You will find a tatami mat room to the right, past the entrance. A scroll that reads “O great gods, please protect this inn” hangs within. What could be the story behind that?

It started with a decision to delve into the mountain to build in it. As the people prepared for a site purification ceremony for safety during the building process, dark clouds gathered over the clear skies. Then, a wind blew away all of their preparations. When they asked a certain shrine’s chief priest about the mysterious event, the priest informed them that three “Ryūjin” dragon gods protect this land, and the event was a show of their anger.

The reason for their wrath? By ruining the mountain, humans were robbing the animals of their habitat. Their fury was a request that the mountain not be destroyed solely for humanity’s gain; to recognize that this land exists to soothe all creatures who live upon it. After that, the owners of Myojinkan at the time, the Saitō family, built a shrine behind the inn dedicated to the three dragon gods.

That same priest gave this hanging scroll to the inn. The words “O great gods, please protect this inn” hold much meaning for the inn’s employees, as it reminds them of their early days.

The Ryūjin are not alone in their celestial company, for they say that many gods come to this place to relax in its hot springs. One legend says that the mighty Ama-no-Tajikarao did not in fact throw down the gate of the celestial cave, but instead carried it down to this land, then promptly forgot about it after entering the baths. This is the source of the inn’s name, Myojinkan. It is the lodge of the gods.

Look around the area near the hanging scroll. You will find cat ornaments secretly placed around Myojinkan.

Why? Partially because the ryokan’s proprietress loves cats, but also because her duties prevent her from owning a cat. So, whenever the owner went on business trips, he would buy cat ornaments for her at every destination.

The proprietress tells us she was so eager to share her joy with the guests that she hid the figurines at different places in the inn, beckoning the guests as only cats can. We invite you to also try finding the secretive felines yourself.