Yoshinotei
7,9/10 Very good - Based on 42 reviews
Yoshinotei sits on a wooded terrace above the Tenryu River, framed by the Minami Alps and distant peaks such as Mt. Komagatake and Mt. Utsugi. This stand‑alone inn blends traditional tatami rooms with a small number of recently renovated modern‑Japanese suites, many positioned to take advantage of river and mountain views. A riverside lounge with large windows provides a calm spot to watch the Tenryu River boat tour or the changing seasons, making the property a quiet base for exploring the natural highlights of Minami Shinshu and the surrounding Nagano countryside.
Bathing is central to the experience: the ryokan operates a large indoor public bath, an open‑air bath that invites starry‑sky soaks, and two reservable private baths named "Cherry Blossoms" and "Autumn Foliage." All bath facilities draw from the onsen source the property promotes for its skin‑softening qualities and can be used as private, bookable soaks for couples or families. These options position the property as a ryokan with private onsen in Minami Shinshu while retaining communal bathing and simple amenities such as towels and toiletries for guests.
Guest rooms range from multi‑futon family layouts to single‑unit suites with observation baths overlooking the river; interiors favor warm wood tones and unobstructed views. Meals are served as seasonal kaiseki dinners and a regional Shinshu breakfast that highlights local mountain and river produce. Practical services include on‑site parking, an EV charging point (advance reservation advised) and a shuttle pickup from the nearby station by prior arrangement, which together make this ryokan with private onsen in Nagano accessible for both road and rail itineraries.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yoshinotei
Positive Reviews
Scenic river and mountain views
Many guests praised the rooms and public areas for their views of the Tenryu River and surrounding mountains; river- and mountain-facing rooms were described as very beautiful and relaxing (some guests watched riverboat activity from their rooms).
High-quality, plentiful meals
Dinner and breakfast received frequent praise for being tasty, varied and visually appealing; several guests noted generous portions and creative vegetable-based dishes, with some very satisfied by the local river-fish preparations and overall culinary effort.
Good onsen quality and private baths
The hot spring was highlighted for its alkaline, silky water (reported pH ~10.2) and several guests especially enjoyed the private/reserved bath (kashikiri), calling it a standout feature.
Attentive, welcoming staff
Staff service and omotenashi were frequently mentioned as excellent—personalized touches such as remembering guests, warm greetings, smooth pick-up from the station and small services (e.g., putting hot-water bottles into futons) made stays memorable.
Clean rooms and thoughtful touches
Many guests found the guest rooms clean and comfortable, with attention to presentation (fresh flowers, tidy bedding) and small comforts that improved the stay.
Negative Reviews
Aging facilities and maintenance needs
Multiple reviews noted visible wear and tear (worn interiors, peeling wallpaper in dining areas, carpet holes and stained floor coverings) and recommended renovation or targeted repairs to improve the overall impression.
Cleanliness issues in some public areas and linens
A few guests reported that the female public bath was not properly cleaned at times and some towels had a damp or slightly musty smell, indicating inconsistent housekeeping standards in shared facilities and laundry.
Noise and room comfort problems
Guests mentioned noise from adjacent rooms (TVs, doors, floor creaks), rattling or squeaky tatami-floor areas, and curtains that are not blackout (early morning light), all of which disturbed sleep for some visitors.
Onsen temperature preferences and variety
Several guests commented on bath temperatures—some wanted the outdoor/rotenburo hotter while others wished for a milder/lukewarm option—suggesting a need for more temperature flexibility or clearer guidance on bathing options.
Meal quantity and local ingredient requests
While food quality was praised, a few guests found the portion sizes too large for older visitors, and some expressed a desire for even more locally sourced items or regional specialties on the menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are mostly traditional Japanese-style and range from single/double to family layouts; some rooms can accommodate up to five guests with futons. Please check the specific room capacity when booking.
Yes — the property features hot spring baths including a public indoor bath and an open-air (rotenburo) onsen. The onsen is a central part of the ryokan experience.
Private/family (貸切) bathing options are offered at the property or nearby; reservations or prior requests are recommended and may be required. Please ask the ryokan in advance to secure a time.
Pick-up from nearby stations (such as Ina-Hachiman or Tenryu‑Kyo) is typically available by prior arrangement, and larger group transfers (e.g., 10+ guests) can be organised. Contact the ryokan ahead of arrival to arrange collection.
The nearest regional airport is Matsumoto (roughly 90–100 km); access is generally by rental car or a combination of shinkansen/limited express and local trains plus a short taxi. From Tokyo airports expect about 3–4 hours by public transport or car depending on connections.
Japanese is the primary language spoken at the ryokan; staff may speak limited English and can handle basic requests, but guests who need detailed assistance should notify the property in advance. Bringing simple written directions or translation apps can help.
The ryokan serves traditional Japanese meals (multi-course/kaiseki style and local specialties) on-site, with set dinner and breakfast services. Guests who wish to dine on arrival should inform the ryokan, as dinner is typically served early evening.
Yoshinotei sits by the Tenryu River with views toward the Southern Alps and is close to Tenryu Gorge (Tenryu‑kyo), local museums and other Nagano sightseeing spots. The area is suited to scenic drives, river views, hiking and nearby hot‑spring visits.
Check‑in is generally from 15:00 and check‑out is by 10:00; please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time. Note that dinner service usually requires arrival before about 18:00, so late arrivals should be confirmed in advance.
Pets are not permitted at the property. Convenience stores and supermarkets are located in Iida town a short drive away; the front desk can give exact directions and opening‑hour advice.