Tokinoniwa
8,8/10 Excellent - Based on 339 reviews
Tokinoniwa is a contemporary Japanese inn that combines traditional tatami-floored rooms with modern comforts and an emphasis on hot-spring bathing. The property arranges rooms with private open-air baths fed by Kusatsu’s natural waters, and the on-site spa offers a range of facial and body treatments using natural ingredients. Dining follows seasonal, kaiseki-style principles with options for private dining and a bar focused on local sake and shochu; vegetarian and halal requests can be accommodated upon advance notice.
Facilities include multiple public baths with rotating gender schedules, several private-use baths, saunas, complimentary Wi‑Fi, and free on-site parking, plus a shuttle linking the property to the Kusatsu Onsen bus terminal. Guest rooms are fitted with climate control, flat-screen TVs and safes, and the entire property maintains non-smoking guest areas. As a ryokan with private onsen in Kusatsu, the layout suits both couples seeking seclusion and travellers who plan on onsen-hopping around town, while day-bathing options allow non-residents to sample the facilities.
The setting on the hill above the town provides relatively easy access to Kusatsu’s central attractions while keeping the accommodation oriented toward rest and thermal therapy. Practical details such as check-in/out times, shuttle schedules and treatment menus are available on arrival; advanced booking is recommended for private baths and kaiseki seating. For a straightforward stay focused on bathing and seasonal cuisine, this ryokan with onsen Gumma provides a clear, service-oriented option within the Kusatsu onsen area.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Tokinoniwa
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen experience (private & public)
Many guests praised the variety and quality of the baths — both the public onsen areas and private in-room/on-reservation baths were described as relaxing, well maintained, and a highlight of the stay.
Attentive and friendly staff
Multiple reviews highlight helpful, courteous service and staff willing to assist with requests; some noted staff provided English menus and extra amenities when asked.
Authentic, clean traditional rooms and atmosphere
Guests enjoyed the ryokan’s traditional Japanese design (tatami floors, small garden), with rooms described as clean, spacious and comfortable — many called the setting serene and restorative.
Good dining options and breakfast spread
Several reviewers appreciated the dinner and breakfast offerings (buffet and set meals), with many calling the food good and the dining experience enjoyable.
Convenient amenities and shuttle service
The hotel offers useful extras such as a free shuttle to/from the station and town, in-room coffee equipment, complimentary snacks/free ramen at times, and multiple on-site bathing options.
Negative Reviews
Location is a bit remote from Kusatsu center
Many guests noted the ryokan sits some distance from the Yubatake/center (often a 15–20 minute walk), requiring use of the hotel shuttle or local buses — plan transfers accordingly.
Language/service inconsistency for English speakers
A number of reviews reported variable experiences when staff switched to limited English — service quality sometimes felt reduced for non-Japanese speakers and communication could be challenging without translation help.
Limited availability and queues for certain baths
Popular open-air and special private baths can have queues or limited slots; some guests could not try specific baths because of demand from the ryokan and sister properties.
Occasional cleanliness issues in private baths
At least one guest reported finding hairs and foreign matter in a private onsen, indicating an isolated but notable hygiene concern to be aware of.
Price/value and inconsistent food impressions
A few guests felt the hotel was expensive for what was delivered and described some meals as bland or underwhelming compared with other ryokans, leading to mixed views on value for money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary but typically accommodate 1–4 guests; some room types combine beds and additional futons for families or small groups.
Yes — the property offers multiple on-site hot spring options including public baths, outdoor baths, several private baths and many rooms with their own private outdoor onsen.
Guests with tattoos are usually asked to refrain from using communal baths; private or in-room baths are recommended for tattooed visitors.
Yes — Tokinoniwa operates a free shuttle connecting the hotel with Kusatsu town and certain train stations (including services from Karuizawa on request); advance reservation and schedules should be checked with the hotel.
The nearest airport listed is Shinshu-Matsumoto (about 107 km). A common route is train to JR Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi, then the JR bus to Kusatsu Onsen and the hotel shuttle for the final short transfer; private transfers are also possible.
English-speaking staff assistance is available, though language ability varies; staff can generally help with directions, basic requests and reservations.
The ryokan has an on-site restaurant serving kaiseki-style dinner and an Asian breakfast; meal format and availability depend on the rate plan, so notify the hotel in advance for dietary needs.
Tokinoniwa is close to Kusatsu Onsen and its Yubatake area, about 15 km from Mt. Kusatsu Shirane and roughly 48 km from Jigokudani Monkey Park; Karuizawa and local hiking spots are also accessible by regional transport.
Standard times are check-in from 15:00 and check-out by 11:00.
Pets are not permitted at the property; basic groceries and convenience stores are located in Kusatsu town and are reachable using the hotel shuttle or local buses.