ピーポロ乗鞍
8,7/10 Excellent - Based on 21 reviews
ピーポロ乗鞍 (Peepolo Norikura) sits tucked into the forested slopes of Norikura Kogen, presenting a compact, mountain-style ryokan experience that balances traditional tatami rooms and practical modern comforts. The property is oriented toward nature: low-rise architecture, wood-lined interiors and communal lounges create a quietly rustic atmosphere. Facilities are geared to seasonal guests — walkers in summer, leaf‑peepers in autumn and skiers in winter — and the ryokan provides parking and access arrangements that make it a convenient base for exploring Mt. Norikura and nearby alpine trails.
Bathing is a defining feature here: the ryokan operates a milky-white natural hot spring drawn from local sources, and offers both an open-air rotenburo and indoor communal baths that frame views of surrounding birch and conifer stands. Water quality is typical of the highland springs around Norikura, and the layout emphasizes restorative soaks and quiet privacy in the bathing areas rather than spa-style facilities. Photographs and guest notes highlight seasonal contrasts from summer green to snowy winter, so the onsen experience shifts with the landscape.
Guest accommodation ranges from core shared-bath futon rooms to newer rooms with private wash facilities, with meals focused on regionally sourced ingredients served in individual dining rooms or small private spaces on request. Staff arrangements include assistance with local transfers from the nearby tourist-bus stop and the ryokan can coordinate seasonal activities such as ski access or guided walks. As a succinct option for travelers seeking a compact ryokan with onsen Nagano, the property pairs plainspoken mountain hospitality with easy access to Norikura’s outdoor attractions, making it practical for short stays or activity-focused visits to the area — a representative ryokan with onsen Norikura, Nagano.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: ピーポロ乗鞍
Positive Reviews
Delicious, varied meals
Multiple guests praised the dinner and breakfast as tasty, varied and generous (including highlights like freshly grilled fish). Food is frequently mentioned as a strong point.
Relaxing onsen (hot springs)
Guests enjoyed the onsen—both indoor and outdoor—describing the mineral, milky water as very relaxing and a highlight of the stay.
Attentive, friendly service
Staff were repeatedly described as kind and polite, providing warm, traditional Japanese hospitality and good service.
Traditional atmosphere and peaceful setting
Reviewers liked the ryokan's traditional character, well-kept interior, forest views and quiet, remote location (good for stargazing and relaxation).
Clean rooms with basic amenities
Although not always newly renovated, rooms and public areas were noted as clean and equipped with essential facilities (toilet, washbasin, fridge, safe, heating/cooling).
Negative Reviews
Aging facilities and need for renovation
Several guests noted that parts of the property are dated, with some fixtures showing wear or stains; at least one guest suggested renovating and enlarging the onsen.
Sulfur/mineral smell from the onsen
The mineral/sulfur scent of the hot spring water was mentioned as potentially bothersome for guests with sensitive noses.
Tobacco smoke entering rooms
A smoking area located below rooms caused cigarette smell to drift into guest rooms for some visitors, which reduced comfort.
Sleeping and seating comfort issues
Some guests found the futon mattresses thin and uncomfortable by European standards, and traditional floor seating (sitting cross‑legged or seiza) in the dining room uncomfortable—requests were made for table and chair options.
Accessibility, finding the property and communication
A few reviewers reported difficulty finding the ryokan, limited accessibility (no elevator, problematic for those with mobility issues) and language barriers with the owner (often requiring a translator).
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style and typically accommodate between 2 and 5 guests depending on the room type; please select the room that matches your party size when booking.
Yes — the property has a natural milky-white hot spring with indoor baths and a roofed outdoor (rotenburo) where guests can relax.
A dedicated private onsen is not listed among standard facilities; guests should contact the ryokan directly to request private use or inquire about exclusive bookings.
The nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport, about 40–45 km away; from there you can travel via car or public transport toward Shinshimashima and follow onward bus or transfer options to Norikura Kogen.
Shuttle service is available by prior arrangement; please notify the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance to confirm pick-up.
Staff are primarily Japanese speakers; some English is often available but level and availability may vary, so contact the property if you need specific language assistance.
Dinner features seasonal local Japanese dishes using mountain produce and is normally served in a private dining area, while breakfast follows a simple Asian-style offering.
The ryokan sits in a quiet mountain area with limited shops nearby; larger supermarkets and a wider choice of restaurants are found in the valley towns, so plan accordingly or dine at the ryokan.
Pets are not allowed at the property; please make other arrangements for animals before your stay.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00; guests are asked to inform the ryokan of their expected arrival time when booking or before arrival.