Oyado Sansui
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 76 reviews
Oyado Sansui is a traditional Japanese inn set in the Iida/Achi area of Nagano Prefecture, combining tatami-floored rooms and futon bedding with a selection of more modern room layouts to suit couples, families and small groups. The property sits within planted grounds that frame views from several guest rooms and public spaces, and its public areas include a small lounge and an on-site restaurant that serves set-course meals focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Practical amenities are provided for multi-day stays, including free on-site parking and an option to request a shuttle when booking.
The property centres on its hot spring facilities: guests can use communal indoor baths and an open-air onsen beside the grounds, and there are bookable bathrooms for those who prefer an exclusive experience, making it a ryokan with onsen in Nagano that also offers private-bath options. A sauna and a simple stone-bed bathing feature are listed among the wellness facilities; several of the smaller baths can be reserved for private use, which is convenient for guests seeking privacy or travelling with tattooed guests who prefer a dedicated space. Bath times and reservation details are handled by the front desk at check-in.
Meals are presented in a classic ryokan format, with evening set courses and morning breakfasts that emphasise regional produce and traditional preparation; staff assist with local sightseeing ideas and transport arrangements. The inn is within easy reach of local shrines and observation points, and its location is practical for visitors exploring the surrounding countryside of Nagano. Guests looking for a measured mix of traditional lodging, meal-driven stays and accessible hot-spring bathing will find the property’s straightforward services and reservationable private baths align well with a relaxed rural itinerary.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Oyado Sansui
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff
Multiple guests highlight very friendly, helpful and English‑speaking staff who go out of their way to assist with questions, tours (stargazing) and special requests, creating a welcoming experience.
Clean, comfortable traditional rooms
Reviews note well‑maintained rooms with tatami, recent renovations on some rooms, spacious layouts and comfortable fittings that preserve authentic Japanese ryokan character.
Excellent onsen options
Guests praise the onsen — both beautiful shared baths and private/indoor/outdoor options (available for tattooed guests) — as clean, relaxing and a major reason to stay.
Delicious traditional meals and good breakfast
Many reviewers recommend the meals, describing dinner and breakfast as well prepared, authentic Japanese cuisine; several say the full board is worth paying extra for.
Peaceful setting and convenient sightseeing access
The ryokan’s quiet, atmospheric setting with a beautiful garden and nearby walks is appreciated; some mention easy access to local sightseeing and a shuttle service to/from Nagoya.
Negative Reviews
Limited public transport / somewhat remote location
Several guests warn that bus services are infrequent (few buses to nearby towns) and taxis are expensive, so arrival/departure planning can be difficult depending on train schedules.
Accessibility issues — no elevator / elevator concerns
Multiple reviews note there is no elevator or that the elevator can be problematic; this may be difficult for guests with mobility needs or heavy luggage.
Sleeping comfort for some guests
A number of reviewers found futon/thin mattresses uncomfortable or preferred a western bed, indicating that sleeping on the floor may not suit everyone, especially older travellers.
Wi‑Fi speed and occasional maintenance issues
Some guests report slow Wi‑Fi and age‑related maintenance needs (minor repairs, heater noises) that can affect comfort during the stay.
Limited dinner flexibility / occasional lower food preference
A few guests mentioned inflexible dinner timing (difficulty arranging late meals) and one comment suggested the food could be improved for personal taste (e.g., dislike of certain dishes).
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from twin and triple layouts to family rooms that sleep up to five guests using a mix of beds and traditional futons.
The ryokan provides hot spring baths including a public indoor onsen, an open-air (rotenburo) bath and a sauna, all fed by the local hot-spring source.
Public baths in the area commonly restrict visible tattoos; private baths or room baths can sometimes be arranged for tattooed guests—please request this in advance.
A paid shuttle service is offered by the property; some routes (including connections to Nagoya) may be available but must be booked with the ryokan before arrival.
The area is typically reached by highway bus or car from major hubs (Nagoya/Tokyo) and the nearest regional airport is over 100 km away; renting a car or taking a highway bus is the most convenient option.
Staff are known to be helpful and can assist in English to a practical degree, though Japanese is the primary language used on site.
Expect a traditional Japanese ryokan with tatami floors and Japanese-style rooms; dinner and breakfast are local, multi-course Japanese meals prepared by the inn and commonly praised by guests.
The ryokan sits in the Hirugami Onsen area near Achi Shrine and a morning market, with local stargazing spots and regional sightseeing easily reached from the property.
Free on-site parking is available and having a car gives the most flexibility; public options include highway buses to the area and local taxis for shorter trips.
Check-in is typically from 13:00 to 19:30 and check-out is by 11:00; pets are not allowed at the property. There are small local shops and a nearby morning market within walking distance, while larger supermarkets require a short drive to the nearest town.