Houshi Ryokan was founded in 718. It is one of the oldest family businesses in the world; 46 generations have managed the ryokan in its 1,300 years. Filmmaker Fritz Schumann profiles the current caretakers, Zengoro and Chizuko Houshi, as they struggle to determine the ryokan's future after the death of their only son. Their daughter, Hisae, helps with the family business—and has reluctantly gone along with her parents' attempts to arrange suitors—but admits that she's dreamt of other careers. "It is a heavy burden on my mind," she says.

We want to hear what you think about this article. Submit a letter to the editor or write to letters@theatlantic.com.