Some of the most recognizable companies are Apple, Google and Microsoft. The first company produces popular smartphones, the second created a well—known search system, and the third developed the ubiquitous Windows operating system. Founded no more than 50 years ago, they have achieved great fame in a very short time. However, companies that were founded hundreds of years ago are still operating in different parts of our planet. In 2011, the title of "the oldest company in the world" was given to the Japanese hotel Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, which was established back in 705. Since its establishment the business has been run by 53 generations of the same family — the hotel offers people to relax and take a bath with hot springs.

Fujiwara Mahito (son of Emperor Tenji's assistant) is considered to be the founder of Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan. According to the legend, Fujiwara Mahito was hunting in the forest near Mount Akaishi and came across a hot spring with healing water. Here he decided to build an institution that we would now call a spa resort.

Until 2019, there was no Wi-Fi in Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan and, interestingly, it was not installed on principle. The owners wanted the hotel to be a place for complete relaxation — guests were offered not to use gadgets at all. However, the managing company took into account the desires of guests, who constantly demanded access to the free Internet.

Ajayyp NOBATOVA,
student of the Institute of International Relations
of the MFA of Turkmenistan.