Andaikan
9,6/10 Exceptional - Based on 71 reviews
Andaikan sits in Yudanaka Shibu Hot Spring Village, housed in a three‑storey wooden building established in 1902. The ryokan has eight guest rooms (sizes range from 12.5 m² to 35 m²) with tatami floors and traditional futon bedding; some rooms are positioned next to the Ryugu bath and one larger room suits groups. Rooms typically do not include private toilets or baths, and a kotatsu is provided seasonally. The inn emphasizes seasonal Shinshu cuisine served as multi‑course dinners that often showcase mountain vegetables, freshwater fish and locally raised beef, with occasional premium steak options on the menu.
Andaikan operates unaltered, flowing hot springs drawn directly from Andai Hot Springs and offers two indoor baths; the men’s and women’s baths are switched after breakfast and dinner so guests can sample both. An outdoor bathing area linked to the source is used by locals and staying guests, delivering a communal, authentic bathing atmosphere rather than private in‑room bathing. This profile positions the property as a ryokan with onsen in Shinshu and a ryokan with onsen Nagano, where emphasis is placed on kakenagashi (constant flowing) water and a traditional communal bathing rhythm.
Beyond bathing and dining, the property presents a compact, characterful interior with a banquet hall and small communal spaces, seasonal yukata, basic toiletries and limited free parking a short walk away. The location offers straightforward access to local highlights: the Jigokudani Monkey Park is a short drive and nearby ski areas are within a brief drive, and staff provide English information and local guidance for exploring the hot‑spring village. Reservations are recommended for special plans such as in‑house geisha entertainment and for securing rooms adjacent to the baths.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Andaikan
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive host and personalized service
Many reviewers praised the owner/staff as extremely kind, helpful and accommodating (explaining meals, driving guests to the Snow Monkey Park or train station, offering recommendations and small extras).
Outstanding, plentiful traditional meals
Kaiseki-style dinners and breakfasts were repeatedly described as delicious, abundant and a highlight of the stay, with hosts explaining dishes and caring for guests' needs.
Authentic traditional ryokan experience
Guests enjoyed the traditional Japanese rooms, large authentic timber finishes, comfortable futons and provided yukata—many said it felt like a genuine, memorable ryokan stay.
Relaxing onsen facilities
The property offers onsen baths with good hot temperatures that guests found relaxing and well maintained; the two indoor baths swap between genders and were appreciated for convenience and cleanliness.
Convenient location for local attractions
The ryokan sits at the entrance to Shibu Onsen, within walking distance of shops, footbaths and close enough for easy access to the Snow Monkey Park; the host’s transport made transfers easier for many visitors.
Negative Reviews
No access to the nine public Shibu onsen
Several guests noted the property is technically outside the old town area and therefore does not include the key/access to the nine public baths of Shibu Onsen, which matters for visitors whose goal is the full onsen circuit.
Only small indoor baths (no outdoor open-air onsen)
Reviewers pointed out the property has two indoor onsen rather than larger open-air baths; some described the baths as small (though functional and relaxing).
Cold bathroom areas and occasional room aging
A few guests mentioned bathrooms can feel cold and some room elements (eg. wallpaper) show age—these did not generally affect overall comfort but were noted as minor downsides.
Access/walking from station can be difficult in winter
The ryokan is a short distance from Yudanaka station (around 2 km); reviewers warned that walking with large luggage or in snowy conditions can be challenging and advised using the bus or host transport in winter.
Minor access/maintenance quirks
Occasional small issues were mentioned (for example difficulty unlocking a door through a gap); these were sporadic and considered minor by most guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Andaikan offers traditional Japanese-style rooms for couples and families, with some rooms suitable for up to six guests; there are double and larger multi-person room options. No extra beds or baby cots are available, so please book the correct occupancy.
Yes — Andaikan has natural hot‑spring baths on site, including two indoor baths; the men’s and women’s baths are swapped daily after breakfast and dinner so guests can enjoy both. A private bath option is available on request; please ask in advance.
A complimentary pick‑up from Yudanaka Station is offered but only between 15:00 and 17:00 and should be requested in advance. There is no regular airport shuttle — travelers typically arrive by train to Yudanaka then use the ryokan pick‑up, local bus, taxi, or car.
The nearest regional airport listed is Matsumoto Airport; most visitors travel via Nagano or Tokyo and then take the Nagano Dentetsu line to Yudanaka Station. From Yudanaka the ryokan is a short bus/taxi ride or the scheduled pick‑up if requested.
Staff at Andaikan speak Japanese and English and are accustomed to assisting international guests. If you have special requests, note them when booking or contact the ryokan in advance.
Andaikan serves traditional Japanese cuisine, typically a multi‑course kaiseki dinner (often served in the room) and a set Japanese breakfast in the dining area. Please inform the ryokan of dietary restrictions before arrival.
Andaikan is approximately 4 km from Jigokudani Monkey Park, reachable by a short drive or local bus. The property is also convenient for Yudanaka Onsen and is about a 20‑minute drive from Shiga Kogen ski areas.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 to 19:00 and check‑out is by 10:00. If you need the station pick‑up or expect a late arrival, notify the ryokan in advance.
Pets are not permitted at the ryokan. Private onsen use is available by request for guests who prefer a secluded bath experience; please arrange this with the ryokan ahead of your stay.
Andaikan offers free on‑site parking for guests, and Yudanaka town has local shops, convenience stores and restaurants within a short walk or drive. Public buses and taxis also serve the area for short trips to nearby facilities.