Maruka Ryokan
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Maruka Ryokan is a compact, family-run inn tucked into the Yudanaka–Shibu onsen district of Nagano prefecture. The property preserves a Showa-era atmosphere with wooden corridors and a small garden visible from several guest rooms, and it sits within easy reach of Yudanaka Station, the Shibu Onsen streets and the trailhead for Jigokudani Monkey Park. For travellers seeking a traditional stay in the region, Maruka presents a straightforward, well-located option as a ryokan with private onsen Nagano guests can reserve for exclusive use.
The ryokan’s bathing facilities include a single indoor, kashikiri (private) bath supplied directly from a local source; the water is described on-site as slightly alkaline (around pH 8.5) and is drawn continuously, allowing a hands-on, flowing-from-the-source experience. Guests are issued a key at reception to use the private inner bath and may also make use of the nearby public “Oyu” bath that represents the town’s historic outer bath tradition. Bathing hours are organised to allow private use in the afternoon and through the following morning, with routine cleaning intervals between uses.
Rooms are traditional tatami-style with simple furnishings, yukata provided and some overlooking the garden; communal washrooms are standard and cleanliness is emphasised throughout the small building. Meals focus on homestyle, seasonal Shinshu ingredients served in a modest dining setting rather than a large banquet format. Practical details: check-in is in the mid-afternoon and the property maintains an early check-out, making it easy to combine a one- or two-night stay here with nearby skiing at Shiga Kogen or a visit to the monkey park — a compact ryokan with onsen Nagano visitors often choose for an authentic local stay.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Maruka Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Authentic traditional ryokan experience
Multiple guests praised the ryokan's traditional, charming atmosphere, classic Japanese style and garden views that provide an authentic stay.
Warm, helpful hosts
Owners and staff are frequently described as very kind, welcoming and helpful, including assistance with transport and attentive service.
Convenient location for Snow Monkey Park and town
Many reviewers highlighted the easy access to Yudanaka Station, nearby bus to the Snow Monkeys, Shibu Onsen and pleasant surrounding nature.
Comfortable, spacious rooms with nice views
Rooms were often noted as cozy, large and relaxing, with sitting areas and attractive views of the garden or surroundings.
Tasty traditional meals and private onsen option
Guests enjoyed delicious traditional breakfasts and dinners; the private onsen was appreciated by many (piping hot, lockable and tattoo‑friendly in some cases).
Negative Reviews
Aging property with cleaning/maintenance needs
Numerous reviews mention dust, spider webs and worn areas; bathrooms, small spaces and some facilities were said to need better cleaning and maintenance.
Onsen temperature and extra charges
Several guests found the onsen very hot and/or noted unexpected fees for onsen use; some feel the onsen could use upgrades.
Cold hallways and inconsistent heating in winter
Visitors reported freezing corridors, heaters that shut off intermittently and situations where corridor heating is turned off early leaving guests cold.
Spotty WiFi and limited guest facilities
WiFi coverage can be weak or only available in certain rooms; guests also missed amenities such as laundry and clearer information about services.
Accessibility issues and limited nearby food options
Reaching the ryokan can be tricky with luggage in snowy conditions (bus drop may require uphill walk); at times the only nearby shop or food option was limited (e.g., Lawson).
Frequently Asked Questions
Most rooms are Japanese-style and accommodate up to three adults on futons; children, extra beds and cribs are not permitted.
Yes — there is an on-site hot spring public bath; some guests report lockable private or in-room baths, so ask when booking, and note that tattooed guests may face restrictions in public baths.
The ryokan provides a free shuttle from Yudanaka Station; you must call upon arrival to request pick-up. For airports, follow public-transport routes to Yudanaka Station then use the station shuttle.
The usual route is Shinkansen or limited express to Nagano, then the Nagano Dentetsu line to Yudanaka (total about 3.5–4.5 hours from Tokyo); Matsumoto is the nearest regional airport for shorter transfers. Staff can advise specific transfer options.
Japanese is the primary language; staff frequently assist English-speaking guests but English ability can be limited, so note any language needs in advance.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM and check-out is between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM; please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time beforehand.
Private or in-room baths have been reported by guests but availability varies by room; request private bathing or an in-room bath when booking to confirm.
Pets are not allowed at the property. Yudanaka town has small supermarkets, convenience stores and local restaurants within a short walk.
The ryokan serves Japanese-style meals; guests commonly mention breakfast and dinner—confirm meal availability and any dietary requests when you reserve.
The ryokan is close to Jigokudani Monkey Park (Snow Monkey Park), Shibu Onsen and Ryuoo Ski Park; Yudanaka Station is about a 10-minute walk, with local buses and taxis serving nearby attractions.