Ryounkaku Matsunoyama onsen
7,7/10 Very good - Based on 9 reviews
Ryounkaku Matsunoyama is a traditional ryokan housed in a three‑storey wooden main building constructed in 1938 and registered as a tangible cultural property. The property preserves Showa‑period carpentry: guest rooms—seventeen in total—feature distinctive joinery and individually finished interiors created by master craftsmen, with a mix of original main‑building rooms and newer annex rooms that include en‑suite options. Public areas retain a nostalgic, timbered character and a small lounge overlooks the surrounding streets of Matsunoyama Onsen village, offering a quietly historic base for seasonal visits.
Bathing is central to the experience: the ryokan operates time‑split large baths with regular gender rotations alongside a medium bath and an internal family bath for private use, which is unlocked from the inside and does not require advance booking. The springs of Matsunoyama are long regarded for their high mineral content and warming properties; the property supplies natural spring water on site and offers day‑visit bathing during daytime hours. Bath facilities include basic toiletries and towel rental, and staff can explain onsen etiquette for first‑time visitors.
Set in the Matsunoyama Onsen district of Tokamachi, the ryokan is within easy walking distance of the village boardwalk and serves as a base for Kiyotsu Gorge, nearby ski areas and seasonal hiking. Shuttle pickup from Matsudai station is available by prior arrangement, and a small on‑site shop highlights local produce and mountain ingredients used in guest meals. For travelers seeking a traditional stay, Ryounkaku is a well‑preserved ryokan with onsen in Niigata and a characterful ryokan with onsen in Tokamachi.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryounkaku Matsunoyama onsen
Positive Reviews
Authentic historic architecture
Guests appreciated original rooms and preserved craftsmanship; several stayed in long-standing rooms where traditional woodworking and design are kept for admiration.
Excellent onsen and bathing options
The hot springs were frequently praised (including medicinal/therapeutic qualities), with guests enjoying full access, gender‑rotations of baths and complimentary family bath use.
Delicious meals
Dinner and breakfast were noted as very tasty and good value for the price, contributing positively to the overall stay.
Warm, attentive staff
Multiple reviews highlighted friendly, courteous and helpful service from the proprietress and staff, with good communication and attentive care.
Charming, nostalgic atmosphere
The ryokan’s retro, atmospheric character and overall ambiance were appreciated by guests, contributing to a relaxing experience.
Negative Reviews
Sporadic/weak Wi‑Fi
Some guests reported intermittent or weak wireless internet, though one reviewer noted this was manageable for those wanting to disconnect.
Aging building with maintenance limits
As an older, large facility, reviewers observed areas where maintenance was not fully up to date; guests felt effort was made but some upkeep issues remained.
Occasional unexplained low ratings
There are instances of very low scores with no accompanying comments, indicating that some visitors experienced dissatisfaction not described in the reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary from single to family/triple layouts; some rooms have private bathrooms while others share facilities. According to current listings, children are generally not accepted—please check your chosen room policy before booking.
The ryokan offers public hot spring baths and a source-fed family (private) bath option; the waters at Matsunoyama are traditionally considered medicinal. Bath temperatures can be high, so test and mix water before entering and follow onsen etiquette (wash first, no towels in the water).
Some booking listings mention shuttle or pick-up options may be available on request, but availability is not guaranteed. Contact the ryokan directly before travel to confirm and arrange any transfer.
The property is in Matsunoyama Onsen; Niigata Airport is the nearest major airport (around 130–140 km). Local access typically involves a combination of train and bus or a car—the ryokan provides free on-site parking for guests who drive.
Some staff can assist in basic English and staff receive good reviews for helpfulness. For detailed arrangements or language-sensitive requests, notify the ryokan in advance or prepare simple written instructions or a translation app.
Ryounkaku is a traditional Japanese ryokan with historic wooden rooms and an emphasis on local, mountain-harvested ingredients at meals. The property is noted for its authentic atmosphere and preserved interior craftsmanship.
Matsunoyama Onsen is close to scenic spots and seasonal attractions—popular nearby outings include Kiyotsu Gorge and several ski resorts such as Gala Yuzawa and Ishiuchi Maruyama. Ask the ryokan for seasonal recommendations and local transit options.
Typical check-in starts at 15:00 and check-out is by around 10:00, though published times can vary by booking source. The ryokan requests advance notice of late arrivals since reception is not open 24 hours.
The property offers a source-fed family/private bath option by request, but in-room private hot springs are not guaranteed. Pets are not allowed at the ryokan.
The ryokan serves traditional breakfast and usually offers dinner featuring local mountain ingredients; notify them in advance for dietary needs. There is a small minimarket or shop at or near the property, while larger supermarkets and more services are located in Tokamachi town.