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[Stories of Matsuzaka-ya Honten] The Daughter and Grandson of a WWII German Soldier Visit Across Generations: A Story of Bonds Transcending 3 Generations

Sep.17.26

Founded in 1662 in Ashinoyu, one of the Seven Hot Springs of Hakone, Matsuzaka-ya Honten has walked alongside Japanese history for 364 years. Having hosted historic meetings between Kido Takayoshi and Saigo Takamori in the late Edo period, as well as visits from Katsu Kaishu and many other historical figures, our inn has always stood alongside the turning points of time.

During the late years of World War II, our inn served as a refuge for German soldiers stationed in the area. Even during those turbulent times, our predecessors embraced them warmly as honored guests, regardless of nationality or background.
Eighty years later, we had the profound honor of welcoming the daughter and grandson of one of those soldiers back to Matsuzaka-ya Honten.

This multi-generational reunion was brought to life by the daughter's heartfelt wish: "I want to show my son the place where his grandfather lived, and the memorable pond he dug with his comrades to serve as a fire prevention reservoir for the local community."

Greeting them was Mr. Matsuzaka, a staff member and the grandson of the inn’s head at that time. Today, he works behind the scenes maintaining our historic buildings and natural hot springs.

For this special day, he spent months translating historical records left by his grandfather into German to give to the family as a gift. Together, they visited "Aji-ga-ike Pond," where her father once worked, and paid their respects at his comrade's grave.

"When I was a child, I asked my father, 'Which country was the most fascinating among all the ones you visited?' and he replied, 'Japan.' Through this visit, I fully came to understand why he said that."

Seeing her warm smile as she shared this story reminded us of the true essence of Omotenashi (hospitality) and the precious warmth of human connections that we have cherished since the Edo period.

No matter how times change, Matsuzaka-ya Honten will always be a place where guests are welcomed back with a heartfelt "Welcome home," no matter how many years have passed.

We extend our deepest gratitude for this wonderful connection that transcends borders and eras.