What Owning a Traditional Japanese Inn is Like đŸ‡ŻđŸ‡”

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  • čas pƙidĂĄn 31. 05. 2024
  • Traditional inns (Ryokans) and hot springs are a Japan highlight. But how hard is to run one?
    đŸ‡ŻđŸ‡” 🍡Use code ABROAD to get $5 off your first #Sakuraco box now: team.sakura.co/abroadinjapan-... Experience Japan from the comfort of your own home!
    ⭐ Special thanks to TAKINAMI RYOKAN for the behind the scenes access to film! ⭐
    The Inn: takinami.co.jp/english/
    Google Maps: goo.gl/maps/LaKwpe7GAB5T2NNe8
    Presented by Chris Broad
    Edited by Marcus Canning
    Filmed by Julian Domanski & Marcus Canning
    Produced by Yasuharu Matsuno
    00:00 Why Own a Japanese Ryokan?
    02:14 Meeting the Owner & Tour of the Inn
    05:02 Inside the Luxury Hot Spring
    06:58 Sake and Massages
    07:49 Inside the Presidential Suite
    12:05 The Ultimate Hands-on Owner
    15:30 The Finest Food in Japan
    16:52 How to Know Your Customers
    18:27 5-Star Luxury is about the Small Touches
    20:06 Back in time at Japan’s Stunning Sunken Forest
    22:10 Touring the Future Renovations of the Inn
    â–ș WEEKLY Podcast: hyperurl.co/nhgr30
    â–ș BEHIND the scenes Patreon: goo.gl/NWEoQm
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Komentáƙe • 1,6K

  • @AbroadinJapan
    @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +835

    đŸ‡ŻđŸ‡” Remember to use code ABROAD to get $5 off your first #Sakuraco box now: team.sakura.co/abroadinjapan-SC2308 | Experience Japan from the comfort of your own home!🍡
    NOTIFICATION SQAUD: It's always the ultimate learning experience spending time with entrepreneurs and business owners in Japan and I'm certainly keen to continue this series following on from this fun documentary.
    With Yamagata prefecture being my spiritual home in Japan, having spent my first three years there as a teacher, I jumped at the chance of filming in a Ryokan in the region. I feel incredibly lucky to have met Minami san and heard his story - stick around until 20:05 for the moving story of how his home village was submerged and turned into a lake!
    Hope you enjoy the episode! 🍿

    • @Scottsgamerlounge
      @Scottsgamerlounge Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Can’t wait to watch this one! Hope you’re doing well mr Japanese spy man

    • @BradJ90
      @BradJ90 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      I love Natsuki

    • @user-ww4wt5hm3l
      @user-ww4wt5hm3l Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Hey man! Thank you for sharing about Japan. Got back from 10 months in Taiwan but never made it up there. Hoping to get to next year :D

    • @askatamvan1054
      @askatamvan1054 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      NOTIFICATION SQAUD đŸ”„

    • @techytube7764
      @techytube7764 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      where was Connor?

  • @RenneVangr
    @RenneVangr Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +3625

    Seriously, every time Chris introduces us to one of these businessmen they are ALWAYS so genuine, nice and passionate. Such amazing people.

    • @TheChristopherHope
      @TheChristopherHope Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +56

      Pure class

    • @Tz3952ii
      @Tz3952ii Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +65

      And this person was also a super elite he went to Tokyo University.

    • @rivetRnC
      @rivetRnC Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      ​@@Tz3952iihuh

    • @DerUnbekannte
      @DerUnbekannte Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +32

      that's probably why they get in touch and why he chooses to show them in the first place ;)

    • @danielsolano1284
      @danielsolano1284 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +33

      Would you act like an asshole if someone was coming to record and review your place? I’d act so good if win an Oscar

  • @Noneya_07
    @Noneya_07 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1008

    The owner was seriously so adorable and very inspirational. I wish all bosses were like that. I would love to travel there one day

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +206

      He was a very genuine guy! Really enjoyed spending a week getting to know Minami san!

    • @kueapel911
      @kueapel911 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +16

      But with owners like this, the moment they step down is the moment when the business start to go south. They do 100 people's worth of job all by themselves after all.

  • @zedre7633
    @zedre7633 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +486

    Something that stood out to me, which I'm not sure whether a cultural thing or specific to Minami-san, is how he talked about the mindset of a businessman is to offer something to the world and serve customers. Not to just be successful or make a profit, but specifically give others something to remember first and foremost. Him working among his staff really solidifies that as they're all working equally towards that goal.

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +145

      He’s a leader but he’s also a team player. Huge respect for the guy and how he motivates his crew!

    • @_Hewman_
      @_Hewman_ Pƙed 5 měsĂ­ci

      only 1 comment? capitalists disagreeing lol

  • @CHEFPKR
    @CHEFPKR Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +497

    My wife and I are celebrating our anniversary in Japan this year and this inn is at the top of my list now.

    • @ChaosMind10531
      @ChaosMind10531 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +7

      We would wait for your review Chef!!!

    • @OwlskiTV
      @OwlskiTV Pƙed 7 měsĂ­ci +6

      You can look forward then to them singing "Happy Wedding" to you and your s/o. xD

  • @Marsofearthh
    @Marsofearthh Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2169

    It's upsetting that something with such cultural significance that can be shared with everyone is on the decline. You can really see the pride and hard work that goes into this practice; not just another vacation excursion but an actual window into the traditions of Japan.
    We definitely need some more videos like this promoting the more generational skillsets Japan has to offer. Cheers for the video, you 100% should inquire about tourism Japan funds to turn this into a seasonal series!

    • @Mar1s3z
      @Mar1s3z Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +60

      The sea of travellers that flooded Japan in the past 10-ish years are more on the cost-conscious side I rekon. Ryokan are top notch accomodations, the prices reflects that. Not to mention a lot of picturesque ryokan require tourists to get there by car, some can't even be booked online, yet more costs (and a lot more) to add up, and ryokan are THE destination, not where tourists just drop their bags off and travel around it. Time are of the essences for tight-budget tight-schedule tourists, they might doesn't have enough time to relax in the ryokan in the first place.
      But yea, even I wish to stay at ryokan for a day or two, however as I said, those restraints I mentioned also burden me as well. Just hopefully that one day I can spend 2-3 weeks in Japan and able to deticate a good part of my trip for ryokan.

    • @pv2639
      @pv2639 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

      What is it with people and always wanting random funds? Genz "fund me" mentality so damn weird...

    • @Marsofearthh
      @Marsofearthh Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      ...Thats... thats how content creators make their money? Its their job?? Views, brand deals, and collaborations. Do you think Chris showed you the Sakura snack box for fun? No, it paid for production of this, and his staff. The Stay at the Riyokan? Content trade. Chris gets content, Takinami gets their business promoted to 2.88million people. Chris has done other content with Japan Tourism collabs. If by "Gen Z mentality" you mean getting paid for the work you do, then yes. Most people who work a job do like to be compensated. Collaborations are what helps content creators make content they want to make but otherwise couldnt, or help make the content be of greater quality. @@pv2639

    • @Marsofearthh
      @Marsofearthh Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      I definitely get this. My last two trips to Japan I've wanted to stay at a ryokan but the ones I could find online never fit my budget. The importance with videos like this are definitely in the notoriety of it. It's hard to book when you don't know something exists, and as an English speaker, my search for Japan stays are unfortunately limited to the establishments that cater to english ): (Google translate only gets me so far).
      Might be a good tourism business idea for someone to translate the lesser known, more historical "out of the way" establishments in Japan. Some of the best places I've found were from wandering in off the street into small closet sized shops. Though the Ryokan obviously takes more financial planning :P @@Mar1s3z

    • @rodolfo7077
      @rodolfo7077 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +13

      Things like this are dying bc the towns where they're located are ghost towns, younger people move out of rural Japan to urban cities for jobs. Most of these cities have mainly older people

  • @fluffybearcubs3491
    @fluffybearcubs3491 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +835

    I'm already thinking of having my honeymoon here, and I'm single. Thanks Chris, you're really great with the stories of life and people and bringing things that's never even on my radar. I hope this channel lives a long time.

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +339

      Haha, that first line had quite the plot twist at the end.

    • @fluffybearcubs3491
      @fluffybearcubs3491 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +71

      Unfortunately not all of us are engaged like Mr. Affable right here. =^^=@@AbroadinJapan

    • @CheapSushi
      @CheapSushi Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +17

      Does Japan have Las Vega style shotgun weddings? Cuz I'm down for a good time! We can always get divorced!

    • @teamshaboobalu2887
      @teamshaboobalu2887 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

      @@AbroadinJapan- 50,000 Yen per night?

    • @Djuntas
      @Djuntas Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      @@teamshaboobalu2887 I wonder if its pr day too now:P

  • @olimpiacookiethrower
    @olimpiacookiethrower Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +763

    I work as a waiter and always get disgruntled whenever I see a boss just not caring about very much doable things the guest is requesting. Going the extra bit and remembering what drinks they like already puts a smile on people, so Minami-san's dedication to the whole service and hospitality is deeply respectable. If only there were more leaders like him

    • @faith9505
      @faith9505 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Eternal Purposes
      But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!
      -Matthew 16:22-
      Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He knew who would betray Him, He knew He would rise from the dead, and He knew exactly when these things would happen.
      And at Caesarea Philippi, He began to tell His disciples what He was facing.
      Matthew’s Gospel says, “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead”
      (Matthew 16:21)
      In the original language, Jesus used a word for “killed” that could be translated “murdered.”
      Peter couldn’t believe that Jesus was saying this. In Peter’s mind, this simply couldn’t happen. It was commendable that Peter was truly concerned about the Lord. But he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he went too far when he took Jesus aside and “began to reprimand him,” saying, “Heaven forbid, Lord. . . . This will never happen to you!”
      (verse 22)
      Interestingly, the word translated “reprimand” in this verse carries the idea of someone in a position of authority rebuking a subordinate. That is the way Peter began to reprimand Jesus. And the language implies that he did this repeatedly.
      Imagine it for a moment. Jesus had just made a statement about His impending suffering and death. He obviously was in anguish over it. And then Peter took an authoritarian position and repeatedly began to reprimand Him. Peter had lost touch with reality.
      Jesus said to him, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s”
      (verse 23)
      We have to love a guy like Peter, because he was so utterly human. He said what many of us probably would have said in such a situation. He was impulsive, impetuous, and hotheaded but also very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus.
      May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t do things the way we think He should and when we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?”
      God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We can only see what will benefit us in this moment. But God is looking at the big picture. And He knows what He’s doing.
      It is during these times that we must trust Him, cast ourselves at His feet, and say, “Lord, I admit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.”
      There are a lot of things that will happen in life that we won’t understand. It is during those times that we must fall back on what we do understand: God loves us. And He is looking out for our best interests.`

    • @OwenShartle
      @OwenShartle Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      @@SuperKendoman yeah .. I've reported that as spam so many times 😕. But the actual comments on this are great to see 😄.

    • @sweetarchangel6748
      @sweetarchangel6748 Pƙed 7 měsĂ­ci +1

      I work in retail and I know it makes people happy when you remember their name and the things that they like - purchase wise.
      And also little things that they might have mentioned in the past - asking "how did X thing go?" Means that you're paying attention to them.

    • @grimsladeleviathan3958
      @grimsladeleviathan3958 Pƙed 5 měsĂ­ci +1

      I go to this small street side burger place near my house pretty often. I'm not the chatty type, but one time, I went there and the guy said my usual order before I could say anything, and it just made me so happy. I forced myself to try and chat with him, and even though usually I just buy my burger and go home to eat it, we chatted so long that I finished my burger there and we were still talking. It's one of the few times I managed to chat with someone without it being awkward, and now I consider him a good friend. It's the little things sometimes that mean the most.

  • @eri-in-her-happy-bubble
    @eri-in-her-happy-bubble Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +907

    Minami san just exudes kindness, dedication, compassion, and something truly spiritual. The tragedy of his old neighborhood flooding and how he was able to reinvigorate his family's business to where it's thriving is truly, like you said, inspirational. And then the way he sent you off with such a warm heartfelt farewell got me so teary-eyed.😂 If you ever decide to write another novel, you've gotta include his story!❀

    • @faith9505
      @faith9505 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Eternal Purposes
      But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!
      -Matthew 16:22-
      Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He knew who would betray Him, He knew He would rise from the dead, and He knew exactly when these things would happen.
      And at Caesarea Philippi, He began to tell His disciples what He was facing.
      Matthew’s Gospel says, “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead”
      (Matthew 16:21)
      In the original language, Jesus used a word for “killed” that could be translated “murdered.”
      Peter couldn’t believe that Jesus was saying this. In Peter’s mind, this simply couldn’t happen. It was commendable that Peter was truly concerned about the Lord. But he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he went too far when he took Jesus aside and “began to reprimand him,” saying, “Heaven forbid, Lord. . . . This will never happen to you!”
      (verse 22)
      Interestingly, the word translated “reprimand” in this verse carries the idea of someone in a position of authority rebuking a subordinate. That is the way Peter began to reprimand Jesus. And the language implies that he did this repeatedly.
      Imagine it for a moment. Jesus had just made a statement about His impending suffering and death. He obviously was in anguish over it. And then Peter took an authoritarian position and repeatedly began to reprimand Him. Peter had lost touch with reality.
      Jesus said to him, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s”
      (verse 23)
      We have to love a guy like Peter, because he was so utterly human. He said what many of us probably would have said in such a situation. He was impulsive, impetuous, and hotheaded but also very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus.
      May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t do things the way we think He should and when we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?”
      God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We can only see what will benefit us in this moment. But God is looking at the big picture. And He knows what He’s doing.
      It is during these times that we must trust Him, cast ourselves at His feet, and say, “Lord, I admit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.”
      There are a lot of things that will happen in life that we won’t understand. It is during those times that we must fall back on what we do understand: God loves us. And He is looking out for our best interests.`.

    • @tonederf6419
      @tonederf6419 Pƙed 3 měsĂ­ci

      @@faith9505 i like turtles

  • @Even-Steven
    @Even-Steven Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +591

    You have to admire Minami san's dedication, vision, persistence and unique involvement. The guy does a little of everything and embodies the Japanese spirit. It's a great success story to turn around a situation where it might have been easier to throw in the towel. A very impressive person.

    • @faith9505
      @faith9505 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      Eternal Purposes
      But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!
      -Matthew 16:22-
      Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He knew who would betray Him, He knew He would rise from the dead, and He knew exactly when these things would happen.
      And at Caesarea Philippi, He began to tell His disciples what He was facing.
      Matthew’s Gospel says, “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead”
      (Matthew 16:21)
      In the original language, Jesus used a word for “killed” that could be translated “murdered.”
      Peter couldn’t believe that Jesus was saying this. In Peter’s mind, this simply couldn’t happen. It was commendable that Peter was truly concerned about the Lord. But he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he went too far when he took Jesus aside and “began to reprimand him,” saying, “Heaven forbid, Lord. . . . This will never happen to you!”
      (verse 22)
      Interestingly, the word translated “reprimand” in this verse carries the idea of someone in a position of authority rebuking a subordinate. That is the way Peter began to reprimand Jesus. And the language implies that he did this repeatedly.
      Imagine it for a moment. Jesus had just made a statement about His impending suffering and death. He obviously was in anguish over it. And then Peter took an authoritarian position and repeatedly began to reprimand Him. Peter had lost touch with reality.
      Jesus said to him, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s”
      (verse 23)
      We have to love a guy like Peter, because he was so utterly human. He said what many of us probably would have said in such a situation. He was impulsive, impetuous, and hotheaded but also very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus.
      May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t do things the way we think He should and when we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?”
      God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We can only see what will benefit us in this moment. But God is looking at the big picture. And He knows what He’s doing.
      It is during these times that we must trust Him, cast ourselves at His feet, and say, “Lord, I admit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.”
      There are a lot of things that will happen in life that we won’t understand. It is during those times that we must fall back on what we do understand: God loves us. And He is looking out for our best interests.`

    • @bmo3778
      @bmo3778 Pƙed 7 měsĂ­ci

      getting involved and occasionally doing the chores directly can give a better perspective to the owner, of how their employees face the daily struggle of running the business

  • @KyleAlexJohn
    @KyleAlexJohn Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +599

    I'm touched to see an inn being rewarded for its personal touch. In a world where everything is manufactured, processed and then shipped out to reach as many people as possible, knowing that businesses still exist which pride themselves on the quality of the experience they provide is refreshing.

    • @princessthyemis
      @princessthyemis Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Yeah!!!!đŸŽ‰â€â€

    • @debbiehenri345
      @debbiehenri345 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +12

      Yes, it's so refreshing to see 'the high quality personal touch' in these privately owned places, rather than the 'bog standard' that you only get with chain hotels/eating places.
      Franchises and chains have been the ruination of many parts of the world, places that specialise in the cultural differences fading away as narrow-minded tourists demand what the same thing they can get at home.
      Where's the treat, the experience - if all you're going to do is eat McDonald's or KFC, drink Starbucks, or stay in a corporate-built hotel everywhere you go?
      Now, in my nearest Scottish town, we have the same shops, same eating places as you would find in Yeovil, Devon or Brentwood, Essex. There's no longer the local culinary diversity that was still very apparent 30 years ago. Local speciality shops have either died out or become so rare you have to travel halfway across the county for them.
      So I'm glad to see there are places in Japan, such as this inn, where they still resist the bland minced cow patty and persist in specialising in more traditional foods and styles. I love to see the care they take in making these dishes.

    • @j134679
      @j134679 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      ​@@debbiehenri345i also noticed it this decade. Back then, you travel within your country to see something different. Now it's mostly the same. Local popular shops grew to have branches in other areas. Nothing is a specialty anymore, only "instagram spots" are left & I'm not interested in traveling just for that 😂

    • @faith9505
      @faith9505 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      Eternal Purposes
      But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!
      -Matthew 16:22-
      Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He knew who would betray Him, He knew He would rise from the dead, and He knew exactly when these things would happen.
      And at Caesarea Philippi, He began to tell His disciples what He was facing.
      Matthew’s Gospel says, “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead”
      (Matthew 16:21)
      In the original language, Jesus used a word for “killed” that could be translated “murdered.”
      Peter couldn’t believe that Jesus was saying this. In Peter’s mind, this simply couldn’t happen. It was commendable that Peter was truly concerned about the Lord. But he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he went too far when he took Jesus aside and “began to reprimand him,” saying, “Heaven forbid, Lord. . . . This will never happen to you!”
      (verse 22)
      Interestingly, the word translated “reprimand” in this verse carries the idea of someone in a position of authority rebuking a subordinate. That is the way Peter began to reprimand Jesus. And the language implies that he did this repeatedly.
      Imagine it for a moment. Jesus had just made a statement about His impending suffering and death. He obviously was in anguish over it. And then Peter took an authoritarian position and repeatedly began to reprimand Him. Peter had lost touch with reality.
      Jesus said to him, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s”
      (verse 23)
      We have to love a guy like Peter, because he was so utterly human. He said what many of us probably would have said in such a situation. He was impulsive, impetuous, and hotheaded but also very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus.
      May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t do things the way we think He should and when we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?”
      God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We can only see what will benefit us in this moment. But God is looking at the big picture. And He knows what He’s doing.
      It is during these times that we must trust Him, cast ourselves at His feet, and say, “Lord, I admit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.”
      There are a lot of things that will happen in life that we won’t understand. It is during those times that we must fall back on what we do understand: God loves us. And He is looking out for our best interests.`

  • @KantanJapan
    @KantanJapan Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +284

    Despite having to wake up at 4am to film that kayak scene, the whole thing was a hell of a lot of fun!
    Marcus crushed it on that edit too!
    I look forward to the next time I can meet Minami-san 😄

    • @K1ddkanuck
      @K1ddkanuck Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +23

      I'm seriously jealous of you guys being able to do this. I will be adding a visit to Takinami Ryokan to my life's bucket list for sure. This place looks positively magical.

    • @faith9505
      @faith9505 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      Eternal Purposes
      But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!
      -Matthew 16:22-
      Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He knew who would betray Him, He knew He would rise from the dead, and He knew exactly when these things would happen.
      And at Caesarea Philippi, He began to tell His disciples what He was facing.
      Matthew’s Gospel says, “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead”
      (Matthew 16:21)
      In the original language, Jesus used a word for “killed” that could be translated “murdered.”
      Peter couldn’t believe that Jesus was saying this. In Peter’s mind, this simply couldn’t happen. It was commendable that Peter was truly concerned about the Lord. But he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he went too far when he took Jesus aside and “began to reprimand him,” saying, “Heaven forbid, Lord. . . . This will never happen to you!”
      (verse 22)
      Interestingly, the word translated “reprimand” in this verse carries the idea of someone in a position of authority rebuking a subordinate. That is the way Peter began to reprimand Jesus. And the language implies that he did this repeatedly.
      Imagine it for a moment. Jesus had just made a statement about His impending suffering and death. He obviously was in anguish over it. And then Peter took an authoritarian position and repeatedly began to reprimand Him. Peter had lost touch with reality.
      Jesus said to him, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s”
      (verse 23)
      We have to love a guy like Peter, because he was so utterly human. He said what many of us probably would have said in such a situation. He was impulsive, impetuous, and hotheaded but also very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus.
      May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t do things the way we think He should and when we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?”
      God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We can only see what will benefit us in this moment. But God is looking at the big picture. And He knows what He’s doing.
      It is during these times that we must trust Him, cast ourselves at His feet, and say, “Lord, I admit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.”
      There are a lot of things that will happen in life that we won’t understand. It is during those times that we must fall back on what we do understand: God loves us. And He is looking out for our best interests.`.

    • @sepg5084
      @sepg5084 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      ​@@faith9505reported for spam

  • @ilvecchiorandyrandon2109
    @ilvecchiorandyrandon2109 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +123

    "Osteria SinceritĂ " is in Italian!! What an incredible honor to see the Japanese still be influenced by our culture!
    For anyone curious it roughly translates too "sincerity tavern"

    • @XxxRagdexxX
      @XxxRagdexxX Pƙed 7 měsĂ­ci +2

      @@ln5321 you are not wrong, it also means the same in Latin: sincerity = sincerita || Osteria = tavern

    • @Steve.._.
      @Steve.._. Pƙed 7 měsĂ­ci

      ​@@XxxRagdexxXyeah... I'm glad I dropped out of latin half a year in 😂

  • @gigagreg1164
    @gigagreg1164 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +219

    Chris...Thanks for this inspirational video. CEO of successful company comes back to run family business. This should be the premise of a movie or tv series. Minami san seems like the Ted Lasso of ryokans. Its awesome you are exposing this side of Japanese culture to individuals who make a difference.

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +78

      Oh my god 'The Ted Lasso of Ryokans' is the perfect analogy đŸ€Ł

  • @baardkristian
    @baardkristian Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +334

    I've been watching you since the teaching days, and I just wanted to make a comment to show some appreciation for what you do. The videos just keep getting better and better, and I really like the way you present Japan in the kind of real, and non-sensationalist way. It really reflects my own impression of how it was when I lived there some years ago, so I feel like I'm being transported back there when I watch your videos. Once again, great video and looking forward to your next one!

    • @autohmae
      @autohmae Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +28

      And kind of full circle, because this video is from/about Yamagata. 🙂

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +150

      Many thanks for the kind words man, it's comments like this that've kept me going for 11 years on here!🙏

    • @kimhornhem5399
      @kimhornhem5399 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      Ahhh the good ol times, i still remember when chris replied to my comment 9 years ago. Feels like yesterday.

    • @faith9505
      @faith9505 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      Eternal Purposes
      But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!
      -Matthew 16:22-
      Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He knew who would betray Him, He knew He would rise from the dead, and He knew exactly when these things would happen.
      And at Caesarea Philippi, He began to tell His disciples what He was facing.
      Matthew’s Gospel says, “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead”
      (Matthew 16:21)
      In the original language, Jesus used a word for “killed” that could be translated “murdered.”
      Peter couldn’t believe that Jesus was saying this. In Peter’s mind, this simply couldn’t happen. It was commendable that Peter was truly concerned about the Lord. But he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he went too far when he took Jesus aside and “began to reprimand him,” saying, “Heaven forbid, Lord. . . . This will never happen to you!”
      (verse 22)
      Interestingly, the word translated “reprimand” in this verse carries the idea of someone in a position of authority rebuking a subordinate. That is the way Peter began to reprimand Jesus. And the language implies that he did this repeatedly.
      Imagine it for a moment. Jesus had just made a statement about His impending suffering and death. He obviously was in anguish over it. And then Peter took an authoritarian position and repeatedly began to reprimand Him. Peter had lost touch with reality.
      Jesus said to him, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s”
      (verse 23)
      We have to love a guy like Peter, because he was so utterly human. He said what many of us probably would have said in such a situation. He was impulsive, impetuous, and hotheaded but also very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus.
      May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t do things the way we think He should and when we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?”
      God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We can only see what will benefit us in this moment. But God is looking at the big picture. And He knows what He’s doing.
      It is during these times that we must trust Him, cast ourselves at His feet, and say, “Lord, I admit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.”
      There are a lot of things that will happen in life that we won’t understand. It is during those times that we must fall back on what we do understand: God loves us. And He is looking out for our best interests.`.

  • @Koala.Lumpur
    @Koala.Lumpur Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +95

    Great project! I love these documentary style films you make. It's a shame they don't always favour the algorithm, but hoping this does really well.

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +28

      I don’t hold out much hope but fingers crossed 😅

    • @UAP
      @UAP Pƙed 2 měsĂ­ci +1

      900k views later 😂

    • @Koala.Lumpur
      @Koala.Lumpur Pƙed 2 měsĂ­ci +1

      @UAP That's still a poor performer for this channel, although realistically, still a lot of people.

  • @13FallenAngela
    @13FallenAngela Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +67

    Yamagata prefecture seems to be one of the hidden, but not so hidden jewels of Japan. This was yet another amazing video.
    Takinami Ryokan would be an experience of a lifetime.

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +19

      Genuinely one of the most underrated spots in Japan

  • @makisa.6853
    @makisa.6853 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +490

    you're SERIOUSLY making me want to come to Japan for good..

    • @AbroadinJapan
      @AbroadinJapan  Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +204

      It is rather good

    • @makisa.6853
      @makisa.6853 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +23

      @@AbroadinJapan I'm envious and happy for you my brother. Keep going on, you are extremely good at what you are doing. I owe you a drink when I eventually decide to come over

    • @Womberto
      @Womberto Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +13

      @@AbroadinJapan If I ever visit Japan they're gonna have to catch me to get me to leave.

    • @rachelbaziak4159
      @rachelbaziak4159 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      I just came back from Kyoto and didn’t want to come back to the crime in America,much respect to Japan!

    • @rachelbaziak4159
      @rachelbaziak4159 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Me too! I love Japan! Just came back from Kyoto and I didn’t want to go back to the States, I have to go back to reality!

  • @goukenslay7555
    @goukenslay7555 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +245

    Every time he films ryokan, it really makes me want to book one.
    Seeing the hard work to maintain and run them is eye opening

  • @KellyJoule
    @KellyJoule Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +51

    "My job as a business owner is to bring value into the world" this, and the fact that he actually WORKS inside his own business alongside his employees? I have so much respect for this man. Meanwhile, here in the States, CEOs get paid billions, and it's hard workers have to go on strikes to make a living wage :(

    • @styno9295
      @styno9295 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      Well, I'm sure it's the same in the japanese corporate world. I'm atleast happy this local business can have success though!

  • @PasiX2
    @PasiX2 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +84

    Minami is incredible, a real jack of all trades. Endlessly sympathetic, hard working, dedicated and also a great example of real hands-on leadership. No wonder he was able to turn the tides on the failing family business.

    • @faith9505
      @faith9505 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      Eternal Purposes
      But Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things. “Heaven forbid, Lord,” he said. “This will never happen to you!
      -Matthew 16:22-
      Jesus knew exactly what was in His future. It came as no surprise to Him. He knew who would betray Him, He knew He would rise from the dead, and He knew exactly when these things would happen.
      And at Caesarea Philippi, He began to tell His disciples what He was facing.
      Matthew’s Gospel says, “From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead”
      (Matthew 16:21)
      In the original language, Jesus used a word for “killed” that could be translated “murdered.”
      Peter couldn’t believe that Jesus was saying this. In Peter’s mind, this simply couldn’t happen. It was commendable that Peter was truly concerned about the Lord. But he was missing what Jesus was trying to say. And he went too far when he took Jesus aside and “began to reprimand him,” saying, “Heaven forbid, Lord. . . . This will never happen to you!”
      (verse 22)
      Interestingly, the word translated “reprimand” in this verse carries the idea of someone in a position of authority rebuking a subordinate. That is the way Peter began to reprimand Jesus. And the language implies that he did this repeatedly.
      Imagine it for a moment. Jesus had just made a statement about His impending suffering and death. He obviously was in anguish over it. And then Peter took an authoritarian position and repeatedly began to reprimand Him. Peter had lost touch with reality.
      Jesus said to him, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s”
      (verse 23)
      We have to love a guy like Peter, because he was so utterly human. He said what many of us probably would have said in such a situation. He was impulsive, impetuous, and hotheaded but also very honest, courageous, and intelligent. And perhaps he was the most accessible of all the followers of Jesus.
      May God help us to trust Him when He doesn’t do things the way we think He should and when we’re tempted to say, “Why, Lord?”
      God is thinking of His eternal purposes. We can only see what will benefit us in this moment. But God is looking at the big picture. And He knows what He’s doing.
      It is during these times that we must trust Him, cast ourselves at His feet, and say, “Lord, I admit to You that I don’t understand. I don’t know why. But I thank You that You are in control.”
      There are a lot of things that will happen in life that we won’t understand. It is during those times that we must fall back on what we do understand: God loves us. And He is looking out for our best interests.`.

  • @HeisenbergFam
    @HeisenbergFam Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +310

    11 years later and Chris is still exploring Japan, gotta respect the dedication

    • @garryferrington811
      @garryferrington811 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +3

      Apparently Japan is infinite.

    • @FindecanorNotGmail
      @FindecanorNotGmail Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Not long ago, it was only Chris doing everything himself. This video was a four-person operation, not counting the owner and staff of the ryokan.

    • @MrAsh1989
      @MrAsh1989 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

      Dedication? He only makes these videos so he can eat, sleep and bathe for free, lol......

    • @Marsofearthh
      @Marsofearthh Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      im confused, is that not why everyone works?... If you have some secret life hack to eating, sleeping, and bathing for free please let me in on it lmao (but I bet you also have a job). @@MrAsh1989

    • @9.5.9.5
      @9.5.9.5 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +10

      ​@@MrAsh1989He built this channel so he could eat, sleep and bathe for free. Dedication

  • @sanashi27
    @sanashi27 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +345

    It's amazing how much work he puts into running the inn and he's having fun doing it all. I'm glad it's working out for him and I hope it continues on in the future.

    • @n1ngnuo
      @n1ngnuo Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      I just checked the prices, it's 500-700 USD per night. Tough sell.

    • @g76agi
      @g76agi Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

      ​@@n1ngnuothats like saying first class tickets for planes are a tough sell, i mean, they aint made for us normal people

    • @putinski666
      @putinski666 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +9

      ​@@n1ngnuoit's a five star experience with a Michelin star chef cooking your food. Prices like that are to be expected for the experience

    • @Gixin
      @Gixin Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      @@n1ngnuoIf I'm being perfectly honest, for everything you get there, that is honestly rather cheap when compared to "luxury" places in America that are twice that price for less hospitality

    • @n1ngnuo
      @n1ngnuo Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      @@Gixin That might be, but I live in Taiwan and been to many other East Asian countries. This is a bit overpriced for me.

  • @hate2191
    @hate2191 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +48

    Easily one of Chris' best videos. This surpasses a lot of documentaries made by big studies. Chris should be truly proud of this incredible video

  • @RursusPsittacus
    @RursusPsittacus Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +51

    Being a hotel manager myself I very much appreciate this look into a ryokan and how they mix the traditional and the modern into a successful hospitality business. I would love to see a few more these.

  • @BadTakeRisan
    @BadTakeRisan Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +728

    Abroad in Japan never disappoints

    • @gekke_pingu
      @gekke_pingu Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +3

      Indeed

    • @VicksasT
      @VicksasT Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

      Never ever

    • @drowninginkiddypool
      @drowninginkiddypool Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Stop bringing this dead normie like-bait comment to actual quality videos and ruining the comment section

    • @Meta9871
      @Meta9871 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      I know right?

    • @ErPaSt
      @ErPaSt Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      We are talking about Mr affable...

  • @amandahayward
    @amandahayward Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +101

    What an amazing CEO. I like how he concentrates on the little things and records it on a spreadsheet. He's someone who we all could learn from. Excellent video Chris 👏

  • @nvincible1354
    @nvincible1354 Pƙed 5 měsĂ­ci +4

    It's people like Mr Minami that truly inspire with how much dedication and effort they put. The fact he went around learning from other businesses and then went hands-on in his business is admirable.

  • @traceypotter7669
    @traceypotter7669 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +12

    Hiroshi is truly the epitome of a gentleman and a scholar. His attention to detail, the hard work, the dedication, the list is endless. If I had worked for someone like him, I would never have left the hospitality industry. This is more my idea of hospitality, that it is about the experience, how the guest is treated, and how they showcase their best. Yes, there is always going to be "that" guest, but I would love to think Hiroshi wouldn't stand for that! I'd love to visit, but doubt it will happen, but wish him and the entire team and family all the best! Absolutely stunning. Thanks Chris for showing this, a true cultural beauty!

  • @mangamama9881
    @mangamama9881 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +46

    I really respect that Chris shows us not only the side of tourists or guests but also the side of the people who work there and provide others with all these amazing services.
    That's what I call great information and good content.

  • @TheShadowCamo
    @TheShadowCamo Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +51

    Missed AIJ! I know you've been busy with the podcasts and Sharla but it's good to have an episode of Abroad. This guy and his Ryokan deserve some exposure for sure! what a hard working guy! And such a good story, Im so glad he turned it around and made it successful again. 400 years of history is something worth fighting for!

    • @Fluffymonkeyem
      @Fluffymonkeyem Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

      He posted one on climbing mount Fuji a week ago if you haven't seen that one. It was really good!

    • @TheShadowCamo
      @TheShadowCamo Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +4

      @Fluffymonkeyem I did miss it actually. Cool! bonus episode! Thanks!

  • @mrthadthebad1
    @mrthadthebad1 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

    The chef also talking so highly of local farmers and assigning that to how good his food can be is so heart warming

  • @agamersinsanity
    @agamersinsanity Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +4

    Mad respect to the owner for working hard with the staff.
    It's a beautiful building and also well-preserved.

  • @DarknessDust
    @DarknessDust Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +38

    Nothing better than an Abroad in Japan video while eating dinner. You, sir, have just made my evening!

  • @MartaGee
    @MartaGee Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +46

    My eyes wouldnt stop watering the entire video because the amount of passion Minami san has is so strong I could truly feel it. His ryokan is truly exquisite, such a gem to be treasured. I have so much respect for an owner that goes beyond his role and title and gets hands on with all aspects of the business. I truly truly hope this Minami san's ryokan is around for at least another 400 years. Truly a treasure.

  • @JaniceWithTheTarlovCyst
    @JaniceWithTheTarlovCyst Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +52

    This was moving, Chris. Through hard work and dedication Minami san turned what could have been a failure into something wonderful. He was a real delight; and I was touched by the story of his village getting flooded because of a dam being built.
    You meet such incredible people. I'm kind of at a loss for words, which is unusual for me.
    This was sublime. ❀

  • @justarandomonion4809
    @justarandomonion4809 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +4

    Minami-san is the best example of what a leader is. He doesn't tell people what to do, he shows them how to do it. Such an amazing person.

  • @automaticshelter130
    @automaticshelter130 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +39

    Minami-san is truly an honorable man. I look forward to visiting his ryokan when I’m in Yamagata again!

  • @nogare-
    @nogare- Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +31

    The inn is beautiful and the hospitality style of collecting information about the inn's customers in the spreadsheet reminds me of the manager's journals from Hanasaku Iroha, where they record names and preferences of visitors who come to stay. The commitment to hospitality really does highlight the owner's passion for his job.

  • @Jeeters87
    @Jeeters87 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +16

    You know I’ve been in a professional rut as of late and watching this wonderfully produced video of an Inn that came back from 10 years of decline really gave me some hope that things will get better. I also want to take a dip into a hot spring!

  • @taylorm167
    @taylorm167 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    I think what makes this establishment so successful is the owner and the fact that he actually helps around with things. Cleaning, cooking and actually being involved with his customers. He's not just some big boss man who sits in his office and makes orders. He loves his job and the people that stay there.

  • @AbiNephilim
    @AbiNephilim Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +64

    This was utterly inspirational, the owner Minami san really is a picture of actually chasing your ambition and making it a reality, thank you so much Chris for this documentary

  • @Hero32388
    @Hero32388 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +10

    Minami-san is one of those rare & true leaders. There's not enough people like him.

  • @DrMcKayLordOfTime
    @DrMcKayLordOfTime Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

    Minami-san reminds me of Chris in a way, taking passion for his work to such a high level. These business owners are so dedicated and charismatic that people come back for them as well as their work. Thank you Chris and all the others on the Abroad in Japan film team for continuing to use your own passion to showcase that of others at the highest quality of film this platform has to offer.

  • @calebgale7807
    @calebgale7807 Pƙed měsĂ­cem

    Man I realized why I loved these videos. We meet ppl. Hear stories. It's not just a tourist hype. There are ppl who are striving to make it behind all that and no one hooks us like Chris

  • @montylaw2968
    @montylaw2968 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +10

    Amazing video Chris. I have never seen a ceo so humble and the employees so comfortable being around and talking about their boss. A man who is willing to speak english, is not afraid do manual work, and is a gracious host, Mr. Minami is unique in today’s age; not just in terms of a large business owner but also as a regular person. He deserves all the success he has and will have! Chris, please keep in touch with Mr. Minami and show him thanks in return one day!

  • @therealshard
    @therealshard Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

    Honestly did not expect to be able to see the "three months later". You really took the hard but worthy path and for me that made this video even more special. I appreciate your work!

  • @kristindiamandis4297
    @kristindiamandis4297 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

    The story about his family home town turning into a lake and how he goes kayaking there nowđŸ„č hit right in the feels. It’s so pretty toođŸ©”

  • @jaricoecke4985
    @jaricoecke4985 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +26

    Yet again Chris manages to make a spectacular documentation in 28 min with more content then a professional program has in more then 3 episodes in my own country. Beautiful and inspirational. As a travel consultant I'll be keeping this ryokan in my head.

  • @leonpb1409
    @leonpb1409 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

    Minami-san seems like a wonderful Ryokan owner and person in general. Truly honorable.

  • @marypoppins123
    @marypoppins123 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +3

    The owner of the Ryokan tends to his Ryokan with such care, passion and vision that I find it so endearing and inspiring! Truly he does have the DNA in his genes of caring for customers and providing the atmosphere of rest and tranquility. Hope to someday experience this for myself. Magnificent!!!!!

  • @firefangz
    @firefangz Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +13

    Wow, what a video. Minami-san is an incredible man with such an incredible work ethic. I knew you were going to be releasing a documentary this year but I didn't think it would go this hard. This is one of my top 5 videos of yours of all time. Thank you, Chris!

  • @persnikitty3570
    @persnikitty3570 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +30

    Your cinematography keeps getting better and better. My personal fav had been the very punnishing Pete's mug adventure to northern Japan with some simply stunning shots and stills. This one just took its place.

  • @katarixy
    @katarixy Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +4

    Chris you may have just found the most wholesome man in Japan. We need to have another video with him!

  • @BubbleBunny514
    @BubbleBunny514 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +17

    Wow, Minami-san's passion and dedication is incredible, and actually quite moving. His family's Ryokan is absolutely stunning, how incredible that it has been cared for so well for over 400 years! Yamagata and the sunken forest that was once his home town are gorgeous. If I am ever lucky enough to be able to visit Japan I would sincerely love to visit this prefecture and stay at this historical inn 😍

    • @ericng5707
      @ericng5707 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      To be fair, if you look at the actual location of his ryokan he probably had to splurge on the interior to make it unique. The ryokan is in the middle of an urban area so it's not like he can count on scenic views of nature as a selling point. Across the street is a Toyota dealership for crying out loud.

  • @jonathan-kh3zy
    @jonathan-kh3zy Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

    A family business that has ties to the nearby town, brought back the dying business with his ideas, cleans the rooms, baths and cooks even though he is the owner.
    This man is literally a VN mc.

  • @Danny-zb1ze
    @Danny-zb1ze Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +21

    What a fascinating and inspiring businessman Minami-san is, truly a man to admire for his hands on philosophy for running a business. Also, great job Chris to always step up your already AMAZING production quality up. I immensely enjoy watching your videos with your professional presentation and charisma, as well as your witty and ironic humour! I look forward to your next videos to come, I will watch every one of them.

  • @ShreyasGaneshs
    @ShreyasGaneshs Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

    Bro keeps levelling up the content when I don't think it's possible W

  • @serena9090
    @serena9090 Pƙed 6 měsĂ­ci +5

    The quality of your videos has become amazing, and what completes everything is that you are able to transmit the passion of the owner to your viewers.
    You should be very proud of your work

    • @nikisz3858
      @nikisz3858 Pƙed 6 měsĂ­ci +1

      These videos should be on TV or streaming channels. Really quality content with a pinch of humour. 😊

  • @TheMathsVictor
    @TheMathsVictor Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

    Is from the warm welcome at your arrival to phrases such as "My hobby is to work." and "It's when things get their hardest that you get the opportunity to try something new in order to change things around." that we can safely assume how much some people do deserve to succeed in what they do. What is shown in this video is a great exemple of that. Such an inspiring, passionate character.

  • @jeremya-k4196
    @jeremya-k4196 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +25

    That was a great video!!
    Cinematography 🎉
    Pacing ❀
    The actual story đŸ’Ș
    It is great to see behind the scenes, get to see more than just the standard "here's a room at a Ryokan, it is nice" type video. Actually going in depth with the character of the owner

  • @Del-Lebo
    @Del-Lebo Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +28

    What a heartwarming and positive documentary of the historic ryokan revival! Always impressive Chris. Master class in documenting Japanese culture and life. Inspiring!!!!

  • @Doc_89
    @Doc_89 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    That man is not a boss or a chief - He is a leader, living and doing by example.

  • @manci.manwlhs
    @manci.manwlhs Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

    He is an inspiration and kind of reminds me of the fictional character Oshin, who so happened to be from Yamagata as well. Both of them have the spirit of a phoenix. Bravo!

  • @sebastienbolduc5654
    @sebastienbolduc5654 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +4

    He's a smart man. When they showed that his new extension will have private baths, that's more what people are looking for. The stone baths are a unique idea too! That Wagyu and rice dish looked amazing!

  • @IQSim
    @IQSim Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +39

    Amazing work. Your documentaries keep getting better. It's obvious that you are as passionate about Yamagata and the story of this Ryokan as the owner himself is.

  • @chelseamcluckie
    @chelseamcluckie Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    this man isnt a owner, hes a true leader! what hes done is amazing and getting involved with alot of things is heart warning

  • @RMJ1984
    @RMJ1984 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

    I admire his work ethics and dedication. What worries me when you see an owner this dedicated, is that often times when that owner either retires or passes away, the business gets into trouble, because they never learned to operate without the owners constant supervision. A business must never be solely dependant on any on person, if you want it to succeed beyond generations.

  • @rupinnagireddy5719
    @rupinnagireddy5719 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +42

    So cool seeing how Chris has built up an incredible backup team to help push his production pace from 1 vid a month to almost 1 a week. Absolutely insane. Cheers for this wonderful documentary and the many others you and your team will make in the future.

  • @zain1045
    @zain1045 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

    what an incredible inspiration the owner is , RESPECT

  • @jimmyking8074
    @jimmyking8074 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

    What I found so incredible about Minami-san is that he even spoke English throughout the video, almost as though he was trying to welcome Chris even more. Just phenomenal Chris! Thanks for sharing!

  • @Juserjus
    @Juserjus Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    I'd book a stay there just to meet the owner. Such a humble and inspiring person!

  • @ranuuki_sempai9297
    @ranuuki_sempai9297 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +8

    If they also offer a tour in Kayak to the lake that would be a huge plus, in general, it looks awesome, and the new extension is definitely something to look forward to.

  • @ceirwynsinclair4198
    @ceirwynsinclair4198 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

    I have no idea how Chris does it! How can he manage to keep finding people who are as ... cinematic as his videos?! I hope all the best for Minami-san and the entire town!

  • @scorba3
    @scorba3 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    there aren't many CEOs in the world that I'd like to hug, but Mr Minami is one of them! what a great guy!

  • @TitaniumSeraph
    @TitaniumSeraph Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    The way he turned his business around reminds me of the Japanese movie Tampopo. Where the characters go all over town to find the best way to make the ramen shop succeed.❀

  • @blackfoxstudioX
    @blackfoxstudioX Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +8

    The owner is so cool, best of luck to him ! We need more such hard working people and leaders! Also fantastic video, 28 mins of Chris Broad goodness :D

  • @nrahman975
    @nrahman975 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

    You should do more of these style of videos of exploring people's businesses. This video really gives the feeling of a man who carves out a piece of the world to his imagination.

  • @BurmawalaKitchen
    @BurmawalaKitchen Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    the quality of each episode surpasses anything on tv these days.

  • @TheRealTobias
    @TheRealTobias Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +4

    The attention to detail in this video is really noticeable - All the little things: The way ne letters pop up, the splash animation when Kumamon appears, the way the canoes are aligned when giving the interview, the camera angles. This shows how much effort goes into your videos!
    Kudos to you and the Abroad in Japan team Chris!

  • @alhollywood6486
    @alhollywood6486 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +9

    My night at a Ryokan in Kyoto in 2002 was so great, shame it's going away.

    • @triple_gem_shining
      @triple_gem_shining Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

      Well tbh if people pleasured themselves to it more than once in 20 years it wouldn't go away , ya know?

    • @alhollywood6486
      @alhollywood6486 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

      @@triple_gem_shining gross, grow up

  • @C3R3ALM4K3R
    @C3R3ALM4K3R Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +5

    Amazing and truly inspiring, the line where they say the owner is not some who will tell others to seek their dreams but the one who seeks them himself is such a simple but powerful line that I should embody so hard man

  • @reilley7734
    @reilley7734 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

    the differnece between a boss and a leader, what an amazing guy

  • @I.make.AI.Cover.song.videos
    @I.make.AI.Cover.song.videos Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

    WOW.. Mr.Minami deserves every ounce of praises and success he got..

  • @ThorPalsson
    @ThorPalsson Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +10

    We always get the best taste of Japan through Abroad in Japan

  • @TheM8Y87
    @TheM8Y87 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +21

    These are the type of videos I love, it's always amazing to see the Japan, its people, and its culture in a different light. Vidoes like these really show what Japan is about and why it's such a amazing place to go and explore. Great video again Chris, can't wait for the next one.

  • @AstorReinhardt
    @AstorReinhardt Pƙed 7 měsĂ­ci +2

    I have a serious obsession with onsens and ryokans. The rock baths look awesome and obviously the owner really loves the ryokan and puts a lot of care into it. He's giving off grandpa vibes (in a good way!).
    I will say I'm more in favor of traditional looking ryokans...the maybe "out of style" ones these days...I just really love traditional stuff when it comes to Japan...it's all so beautiful.
    But...I do think I'll put this place on my list...

  • @izabellavanryn3531
    @izabellavanryn3531 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

    The best businesses have hands-on owners/managers. Not only will they have awareness, but it also boosts the morale of the employees to see a humble boss willing to get their hands dirty along side them. Maybe not to the extent of being involved in every aspect, that certainly takes a lot of skill! But it shows how much they deeply care. There's a burger joint not far from my house that is also situated next to a McDonald's. I have seen the manager outside picking up littered McDonald's wrappers, and the employees seem genuinely happy working for him. The kitchen is spotless, and runs like a well-oiled machine as well.

  • @Rickt2445
    @Rickt2445 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +6

    The quality and range of your content never dissappoints from The Fukishima documentary food vlogs. Always educational and entertaining. Thank you Chris Broad, you make a lot of people happy while learning something along the way. Also we absolutely love british humour here in America 😊

  • @Scyths1
    @Scyths1 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +3

    I've been to a decent Ryokan a few months ago, and while it's generally quite expensive, it's also the very best of the best when it comes to just relaxing all day, from morning to night.

  • @AGleeBustHard69
    @AGleeBustHard69 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    The flooded forest was beautiful although having a tragic origin story and the whole place looks gorgeous

  • @VorpalSnickerSnack
    @VorpalSnickerSnack Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

    That wave goodbye enraptures the enthusiasm of a child waving to a friend or grandparents.

  • @bugradio
    @bugradio Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +7

    Good to see some more videos that are more in your documentary/in-depth report style. Big thanks!

  • @darius5979
    @darius5979 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +8

    Chris, you absolutely nailed it! Your storytelling and cinematography in this video are both a solid 10/10! The way you showcased that Traditional Japanese Inn was nothing short of breathtaking. Keep up the fantastic work!

  • @szczunokin
    @szczunokin Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

    I don't know what's better - this amazingly done docummentary or the level of management and the quality of this Ryokan. I guess good job for everyone involved in this video!

  • @manifest8082
    @manifest8082 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

    Owner is jack of all trades! đŸ’Ș

  • @Vikotnick
    @Vikotnick Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +4

    I hope it goes up and up for this lovely inn. Hugs from Spain.

  • @catorinalafe3095
    @catorinalafe3095 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +17

    This area is absolutely beautiful! I love these types of videos. ❀

  • @Soulhope85
    @Soulhope85 Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +2

    "silly o'clock in the morning" i like that ^^

  • @sunshinesideofdarkside
    @sunshinesideofdarkside Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci +1

    Can I work for him đŸ˜ąâ€ he seems like a fair boss and genuine worker. I want to visit 😭😭😭😭 Minami-san is a treasure.