Keiryuso Siorie
9,6/10 Exceptional - Based on 80 reviews
Keiryuso Siorie is an eight-room ryokan set on the banks of the Azusa River, framed by the North Alps and positioned for easy access to Kamikochi. The property pairs traditional tatami interiors and seasonal décor with modern comforts such as free Wi‑Fi, in-room kettles and safes; one first-floor suite and several guest rooms open toward riverside views. As a ryokan with private onsen in Nagano, it is designed for travellers seeking a compact, quietly managed inn where a variety of room types include in-room bathing options.
Hot spring facilities draw from the local Sawando onsen source and include a timber-lined indoor bath with tatami surrounds plus a distinctive cave-style open-air bath. The main communal baths can be reserved for private use during set hours, and four first-floor rooms feature Shigaraki-glazed open-air baths that operate as true in-room, flow-through hot springs. Several second-floor rooms provide a heated footbath on the terrace; overnight private-use slots are available without reservation, while daytime private use is arranged at check-in for convenience.
Dinner is presented as multi-course kaiseki using produce and proteins from the region, with a choice of mains that highlights local beef, pork and seasonal seafood, and a rice-focused morning meal prepared in a traditional manner. The inn offers on-site parking, barrier-reducing access points and a clear allergy/diet request policy when notified in advance. With its riverside location, small scale and focus on handcrafted meals and reservable baths, Keiryuso Siorie makes a practical base for exploring the highland trails and is an intimate ryokan with private onsen in Azumino, Nagano.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Keiryuso Siorie
Positive Reviews
Exceptional cuisine (Kaiseki-style)
Many guests praised the multi-course Japanese meals as outstanding — beautifully presented, delicious kaiseki dinners and excellent breakfasts, often served in private dining spaces.
Private onsen and in-room baths
Several reviews highlighted the private outdoor baths and the ability to book private onsen sessions; guests loved soaking on terraces, the riverside onsen at night, and the overall onsen experience.
Warm, attentive hospitality
Hosts and staff were frequently described as friendly, personable and helpful, offering personal touches and showing guests around, which made stays memorable and relaxing.
Comfortable, well-equipped rooms
Rooms were noted as immaculate, spacious and comfortable, often with extras like massage chairs, ample amenities, footbaths on balconies and great views over the river or mountains.
Great base for nature and convenient parking
The ryokan’s location is convenient for visiting Kamikochi and nearby hikes; guests appreciated the ability to park before check-in and explore the area.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited public transport
Multiple guests warned that getting there by bus can be tricky due to limited services and timing; some transfers and walking from the last bus stop were required.
Language and service inconsistencies
A few reviews reported uneven service — some staff spoke limited English and one guest described confusing communication and an unusual late-night payment request, suggesting need for clearer SOPs and training.
Price and limited meal variety for longer stays
Some guests mentioned the ryokan is on the pricey side and that meals could repeat over consecutive nights, which may be an issue for longer stays.
Setting near a large car park / occasional noise
While the interior is peaceful, several guests noted the property sits beside a large car park and occasional passing cars can be visible/hearable, reducing the feeling of complete seclusion.
Minor facility nuisances (insects, dining noise)
Small issues were mentioned such as a few insects in the balcony footbath and occasional noise from other dining groups that disturbed the calm for solo travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from suites for two to Japanese-style rooms that sleep up to four on futons; check the specific room type when booking for exact capacity.
Yes — the property has indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths; private use is available by reservation during certain hours, and the outdoor bath can be used privately overnight without a reservation.
There is no regular hotel airport shuttle listed; the ryokan is served by local buses (Sawando bus stop is about a 5‑minute walk) and taxis — arrange transfers in advance if needed.
The nearest airport is Matsumoto (Shinshu‑Matsumoto), roughly 35–38 km away; travel time is typically around 40–60 minutes by car depending on traffic and route.
Japanese is the primary language; staff have assisted English speakers according to guest comments but English may be limited, so brief preparation or a translation tool is recommended.
Rooms are tatami‑style with yukata provided, meals are served kaiseki‑style in private dining spaces, and communal facilities (library, gift shop, onsen) support a traditional ryokan experience.
The ryokan is a convenient base for Kamikochi (bus access from nearby Sawando), Mount Norikura and local mountain scenery; Matsumoto city attractions are reachable by longer bus rides or car.
Public buses link the area but services are limited; Sawando bus stop is a short walk and direct buses to Matsumoto or Kamikochi are available, so check timetables in advance and allow extra time.
Check‑in is generally from 15:00 to 18:00 and check‑out is between 06:00 and 11:00; guests should arrive by 18:00 if they wish to be served dinner and must notify the property of late arrivals.
Private onsen use is available by reservation (with some overnight private hours), shops and restaurants are not within easy walking distance so plan to drive or bring essentials, and pet policies are not detailed on the listing — contact the property to confirm.