Nakamatsuya Ryokan
9,2/10 Exceptional - Based on 86 reviews
Nakamatsuya Ryokan occupies a traditional wooden building in Bessho Onsen, Ueda, and traces its origins to the Edo period, preserving tatami-matted guest rooms and historical interior details. The property markets itself as a ryokan with onsen and offers a range of room types from standard tatami rooms to kominka suite rooms that include twin beds and an attached onsen room fed by free-flowing spring water. Rooms face mountain scenery and local temples, and the inn emphasizes a serene, traditional atmosphere with yukata for guests and barefoot comfort on tatami floors.
Bath facilities include both rock and cypress open-air baths and a large public bath on the top floor that presents sweeping views of surrounding peaks. Two separate baths on the upper floors can be reserved for family or couple use, and certain suite rooms provide a private onsen in-room using the same natural spring source; the property therefore functions as a ryokan with private onsen options for guests seeking solitude. Amenities for families include baby baths and toys, and access to rooftop baths is via stairs.
Dining is presented as seasonal kaiseki cuisine built on Nagano produce, served in semi-private rooms or a larger hall adorned with traditional fusuma paintings that reference local history. Practical services include free parking, complimentary Wi‑Fi, an optional shuttle from the local station, and staff assistance for arranging kimono photography and local temple visits. Additional on-site features include a souvenir shop, karaoke room, and accessibility provisions such as a wheelchair, all oriented toward an immersive Shinshu ryokan experience.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Nakamatsuya Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Exceptional staff and hospitality
Multiple reviewers praised the attentive, polite and professional staff — including English-capable hosts — who provided warm, family-like service, assisted with reservations, accompanied guests to the station and were described as highly organized and generous.
Rooftop and private onsen with great views
Guests loved the onsen experience: a top-floor outdoor bath with mountain/city views, in-room private hot spring baths, and facilities such as a sauna and relaxation area. Reviewers highlighted peaceful, solitary soaks and thoughtful touches (e.g. cold drinks nearby).
Excellent, authentic meals (kaiseki) using local ingredients
Food was frequently described as outstanding — exquisite kaiseki dinners and varied, flavorful breakfasts using local seasonal ingredients. Several reviewers said the meals were a highlight and very memorable.
Clean, comfortable and well-appointed rooms
Rooms were noted as beautiful, spacious, clean and comfortable (including renovated/mixed-style rooms). Decorative touches such as ikebana and careful presentation contributed to a high-quality atmosphere.
Good communication and transport support
Pre-arrival communication was helpful and clear. The property offers shuttle/assistance from public transport for guests arriving by train and staff proactively helped with local arrangements, making travel and check-in easier.
Negative Reviews
Futon bedding can be uncomfortable for some
A few guests who are not used to sleeping on futons reported thin bedding and difficulty sleeping; one guest added an extra futon to improve comfort.
Unexpected charges for bath use reported
At least one reviewer reported being charged for use of the baths without prior explanation and felt this should have been communicated in advance.
Property feels older / dated in places
Some guests described the ryokan as old or traditional in a way that felt dated rather than modern, which may not suit every traveller’s preference.
Location can be remote for sightseeing
A number of reviewers noted that nearby cities (e.g. Ueda, Nagano) take around 30 minutes by transport, making daily sightseeing slightly less convenient for those relying on public transit.
Uneven steps / small safety issue
One guest reported an unexpected level change and tripping on stairs; reviewers cautioned that there are some steps and uneven areas where care is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most standard Japanese-style rooms sleep up to four guests on futons; larger kominka suites and family rooms (10–14 tatami) accommodate families and groups—check the room description for exact bedding and capacity.
Yes — the ryokan has public and open-air hot spring baths on the top floor with mountain views, and two smaller baths are available for private reservation.
A free shuttle runs from Bessho-Onsen Station (call on arrival to request pickup); the nearest airport is Shinshu–Matsumoto (about 47 km) and major access from Tokyo is by Shinkansen to Ueda then the Bessho local line.
Staff provide English support and some team members speak English, though availability may vary—notify the ryokan in advance if you need detailed assistance.
Guests can wear yukata, sleep on tatami with futons, enjoy kaiseki-style seasonal meals, and arrange kimono photo sessions and other cultural activities.
Bessho Onsen village has cafes, souvenir shops and public footbaths within walking distance; larger supermarkets and full services are located in Ueda about 30 minutes away by train.
Check-in is generally between 14:00–15:00 with last arrivals typically by 18:00, and check-out is by 10:00; please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time.
Kitamuki Kannon, Anrakuji and Jurakuji temples are a short walk away, Ueda Castle is nearby, and day trips to sites like Jigokudani (snow monkeys) and Matsumoto Castle are feasible by car or train.
Pets are not allowed; private reservation of the smaller baths is offered and the ryokan can accommodate private group meals or events with advance arrangement.
Take the Hokuriku/Takasaki Shinkansen to Ueda (about 90 minutes), then the Bessho Line to Bessho-Onsen (about 30 minutes); request the free shuttle from Bessho-Onsen Station for the short transfer to the ryokan.