Yudanaka Onsen Yamazakiya
9,6/10 Exceptional - Based on 395 reviews
Yudanaka Onsen Yamazakiya is a compact, family-run ryokan set in the traditional onsen district of Yamanouchi, offering a quietly authentic Japanese inn experience in Nagano. The property occupies a small, timbered building with a handful of Japanese-style rooms furnished with tatami and futon; some room types share bathroom facilities while others provide greater private space. Located within easy reach of the local train station and the nearby Jigokudani Monkey Park, it functions as a straightforward base for seasonal pursuits from snow-watching to spring hiking.
Bathing facilities are central to the stay: the ryokan operates natural hot-spring baths with a continuously flowing spring source and maintains at least one reservable private bath for guests seeking exclusive use, so it can be described as a ryokan with private onsen Nagano. Communal male and female baths are available in rotation and the property accepts bookings for private slots, allowing small groups or couples to schedule an undisturbed soak. Meals follow a traditional Japanese format, served in the dining area with the option to request in-room service for an additional charge.
Practical arrangements are straightforward and service-oriented: the house offers on-site parking and can assist with short shuttle transfers on request, while staff primarily speak Japanese so non-Japanese speakers may find translation tools helpful. Check-in is generally from mid-afternoon with check-out by mid-morning, and small-group hospitality, simple communal facilities and close proximity to Shibu Onsen and local walking streets make this ryokan with onsen Yamanouchi a measured choice for travellers seeking an unpretentious hot-spring stay.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yudanaka Onsen Yamazakiya
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, attentive hospitality
Multiple guests praised the warm, kind and highly attentive hosts who go out of their way to help (English spoken by staff or assisted via translation), provide local advice, give rides to nearby attractions and respond to special requests.
Beautiful traditional ryokan and rooms
Reviewers enjoyed the authentic, well-maintained traditional decor, comfortable tatami-style rooms — some spacious and with river views — that contribute to a very Japanese stay.
Private, clean onsen facilities
The ryokan offers private onsen baths that guests can reserve free for short time slots; visitors described them as very clean, relaxing and a highlight of the stay.
Excellent traditional meals
Breakfasts and dinners were repeatedly described as delicious, generous, homemade and able to accommodate dietary needs; many called the food a memorable part of the experience.
Charming location and family atmosphere
Located on a picturesque, quiet onsen street near restaurants and within reach of the snow monkey park, the family-run inn provides a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with personal touches (tea, snacks, local hospitality).
Negative Reviews
Small or awkward toilet facilities
A few guests noted that some toilets are quite small and can be uncomfortable for taller people.
Onsen not to every guest’s taste (sulfur/appearance)
At least one group mentioned disappointment with the property onsen due to sulfur-related smell/appearance and found it less attractive than expected.
Walk from the train station / slightly out of the way
Several reviews mention a 20+ minute walk from the station; some felt the location is a bit remote (though others appreciated the peaceful setting).
Some rooms/furnishings feel dated and lighting harsh
One guest described older-style furniture and bright white room lighting that felt clinical; a few reviewers implied décor could be refreshed in places.
Limitations or confusion about access to local public baths
A guest reported that a provided key did not grant access to the expected Shibu Onsen baths but to another source, and another noted that access to the town’s multiple public baths is not included with the room rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan has eight traditional Japanese-style rooms with futons; rooms typically accommodate 2–4 guests and some larger rooms are available, so confirm exact occupancy when you book.
Yes. The property has natural onsen baths (separate indoor baths) and offers a private bath option or reserved time slots on request.
A shuttle service is available but must be reserved in advance; the hosts have also been known to provide rides to nearby attractions like the Snow Monkey Park.
Most guests travel via Nagano (shinkansen from Tokyo) then the Nagano Dentetsu line to Yudanaka, with Yudanaka Station within walking distance; the nearest regional airport is Matsumoto, about 100 km away.
Staff are primarily Japanese-speaking, so non-Japanese guests should prepare key information in writing and notify the ryokan of any requests in advance.
Expect a small, family-run, traditional ryokan with tatami rooms, communal and optional private onsen, and Japanese-style dinners and breakfasts served in the dining area.
The ryokan sits in the Shibu Onsen area and is a short trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park (Snow Monkeys); Ryuoo Ski Park and other regional sights are also within a short drive.
Yes. Shibu Onsen’s historic streets have small shops, public bathhouses and local restaurants within easy walking distance; larger supermarkets are a short drive away.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 and check-out by 10:00; please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance, as arrivals after early evening may require prior notice.
Pets are not permitted at the property; private dining or special-diet meals can usually be arranged if you notify the ryokan of dietary needs or requests when booking.