阿寺温泉 フォレスパ木曽あてら荘
8,1/10 Excellent - Based on 361 reviews
Atera Onsen Forespa Kiso Aterasou sits on the Kiso River edge within a forested resort complex, a short drive from the emerald pools of Atera Gorge. The property operates as a compact public ryokan with onsen in Kiso, offering about 14 Japanese‑style guest rooms with tatami and futons, air conditioning and a mix of en‑suite and shared bathroom arrangements depending on the room. Practical amenities include free parking, public Wi‑Fi and a complimentary shuttle from Nojiri station; the site also serves as the hub for onsite camping, BBQ cottages and indoor sports facilities.
The bathing facilities are supplied by a sodium‑chloride–bicarbonate spring and are organized as communal baths rather than private tubs, available to overnight guests and day visitors. Meals emphasize seasonal, regional ingredients presented in traditional multi‑course service, with local specialties such as grilled rice cakes and trout from nearby farms featured periodically. The property also maintains a banquet hall for group dining, coin laundry for longer stays and outdoor play areas, making it practical for families, small groups and travelers who want straightforward services in a rural setting.
As a base for exploring the Central Alps and the Kiso region, the inn is a short drive into Atera valley for hikes and river scenery and places like the preserved post‑towns are reachable by car (Tsumago is about 20 minutes away), so it functions well as a functional rural stopover. The combination of accessible communal hot springs, simple Japanese rooms and onsite leisure options positions the property as a convenient ryokan with onsen in Nagano for visitors seeking direct access to the region’s trails, river views and nature activities.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: 阿寺温泉 フォレスパ木曽あてら荘
Positive Reviews
Very friendly, helpful staff
Multiple reviews praise the staff as kind, attentive and accommodating—providing shuttle pick‑ups/drop‑offs, car rides for guests, and extra help when needed.
Relaxing onsen (hot spring)
Guests repeatedly describe the onsen as pleasant and relaxing, open late/overnight, and a welcome way to unwind after long walks or hikes.
Excellent, authentic food
Dinner (teishoku/kaiseki‑style) and Japanese breakfasts are frequently described as very good to outstanding, with several guests highlighting the quality and authentic flavors.
Beautiful, peaceful natural setting
The ryokan is set in a scenic valley near Atera/Altéra gorges and a clear river; guests value the peaceful mountain views and nearby walking opportunities.
Traditional, clean rooms and authentic ryokan experience
Reviewers like the tatami/traditional rooms which are spacious and clean, offering an authentic, old‑style Japanese stay that many find charming.
Negative Reviews
Very remote with limited nearby food options
Many guests warn the property is isolated—far from shops and restaurants—so if you don’t book dinner or arrive late you may need to bring food (some noted the on‑site shop had almost no stock).
Dated facilities and in need of renovation
Numerous reviews call the building and baths ‘old’ or ‘tired,’ suggesting the property feels dated and could benefit from renovation while retaining its charm.
Limited bathing and bathroom facilities
Several guests report there are no in‑room showers/hot water (relying on the onsen), occasional long waits at the onsen, and comments about insufficient toilets on some floors.
Noise, smell and soundproofing issues in some rooms
A few reviews mention poor soundproofing and tobacco smell in rooms (including guests who accidentally booked smoking rooms), affecting comfort for some visitors.
Limited amenities and connectivity
Guests mention amenities constraints such as Wi‑Fi only in the main building, minimal shop stock, and some difficulty using equipment (e.g. strong/unfamiliar massage chair), indicating limited modern conveniences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese tatami with futon; common configurations sleep up to 3–4 guests. Please select the number and room type when booking and confirm any special sleeping arrangements with the ryokan.
Yes — the ryokan has the natural Atera onsen on site, and guest access is generally available 24 hours. Day‑use public bathing is also offered with daytime/evening hours; check with the ryokan for the current schedule.
Yes — the ryokan offers free pick‑up from Nojiri Station by prior arrangement, generally between 08:00 and 18:00. The property is about a 7‑minute drive or roughly 30 minutes on foot from the station.
The nearest regional airport is Matsumoto (around 77 km); the larger Chubu/Nagoya airports are farther and require a train or car transfer. Typical access is by train to Nojiri Station followed by the ryokan’s pickup or a short taxi ride.
Staff are primarily Japanese; the property provides English information on its website and can handle basic English inquiries. If you need specific language assistance, please contact the ryokan in advance.
Dinner is served as Japanese kaiseki (multi‑course, seasonal local ingredients) and breakfast is Japanese style. Inform the ryokan ahead of time about any dietary restrictions.
Atera Valley (famous for its emerald‑green water) is about a 2‑minute drive or a short walk from the ryokan; historic post towns such as Tsumago and Magome are roughly 20–30 minutes by car. The area is popular for hiking and seasonal foliage viewing.
By public transport take the central line to Nojiri Station and use the ryokan’s arranged pickup; by car the property is accessible from Route 19 and offers on‑site parking. Driving times are short from nearby towns but roads in the area can be rural and winding.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 to 21:00 (please notify the ryokan if you will arrive late) and check‑out is in the morning, typically by 10:00. Confirm exact times when you book.
Private use of the bath is not standard but may be possible on request—contact the ryokan to inquire; pets are not permitted. There are small shops and convenience stores in Nojiri and larger supermarkets in nearby towns, and staff can advise the nearest options.