Bessho Onsen Midoriya
9,3/10 Exceptional - Based on 49 reviews
Bessho Onsen Midoriya sits quietly within the Bessho Onsen district of Ueda, offering a compact, garden-focused ryokan experience that blends contemporary interiors with traditional elements. Accommodation ranges from twin and family rooms to a glamping-tent option, each designed to frame the surrounding greenery through balconies or large windows. Public areas include a dining room that looks out onto the garden, a terrace for sitting outdoors and a self-service drink corner; these communal touches support a low-key, domestic atmosphere that suits short stays and regional sightseeing. This property presents itself as a ryokan with private onsen in Nagano, emphasising individual bathing spaces fed by natural springs.
Bath facilities are a defining feature: the property maintains three private hot-spring baths, including at least one open-air and one indoor option, all supplied by free-flowing sources so guests can book a secluded soak. Rooms typically include practical amenities such as a refrigerator, work desk and free Wi‑Fi, and many overlook tree-lined views. Meals focus on seasonal produce with options ranging from set kaiseki-style courses to hot-pot dishes and a morning Asian-style breakfast; dining availability varies by plan and guests are advised to check options when arranging their stay. As a modestly sized ryokan with onsen in Nagano Prefecture, the venue balances private bathing and simple hospitality rather than large-scale resort services.
Service offerings cover concierge assistance, housekeeping and limited room service, and the layout is family-friendly while remaining suitable for solo travellers seeking quiet time. The ryokan’s garden and proximity to historic temples make it convenient for short walks through a town noted for its preserved atmosphere. Practical notes: free parking is available on site and guests should confirm meal and bath access at reservation to ensure preferred times; advance planning helps secure private-bath slots during busier periods. Overall, the property is positioned for travellers who prioritise private thermal bathing and a small, garden-centred stay while exploring the local hot-spring town.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Bessho Onsen Midoriya
Positive Reviews
Private hot spring baths (onsen)
Multiple reviewers highlighted gorgeous, private onsens (both indoor and outdoor) as a standout feature — tranquil, well-maintained baths that provide a peaceful, almost secluded experience.
Exceptional food and breakfasts
Dining received frequent praise — kaiseki set meals and traditional Japanese breakfasts described as phenomenal or among the best the guests ate in Japan, with vegetarian options available on request.
Attentive, friendly staff
Staff were repeatedly described as polite, caring and helpful, going the extra mile (explaining facilities, accompanying guests locally, firing the tent pit, assisting with smartphone systems and taking photos).
Beautiful garden and tranquil setting
The property’s design and gardens were noted as stunning and peaceful, providing a relaxing atmosphere and attractive views from common areas and rooms.
Well-equipped common areas and amenities
Guests appreciated the communal lounge and free drinks (juices, coffee, teas), comfortable yukatas and bedding, plentiful toiletries in onsen areas, and convenient tech features (QR access, onsen availability shown via mobile) that made use easy for many visitors.
Negative Reviews
Small rooms and limited luggage space
Several guests found rooms quite small or narrow, making them cramped for two people or for large backpacks/suitcases; many recommended traveling light or storing luggage elsewhere.
Dinner booking not made clear in listing
At least one guest reported that the listing did not clearly state dinner must be requested several days in advance, which could cause disappointment for those expecting on-the-spot meals.
Heavy reliance on smartphone/QR systems
The property relies on apps and QR-code systems for check-in, room access and booking baths; some guests found this inconvenient (constant phone use required) and potentially difficult for elderly visitors.
Check‑in can take time due to tech explanations
A few guests noted the initial check-in process could be lengthy because staff must demonstrate the online system — tiring after a long journey and creating a short learning curve.
Occasional condensation in glamping tent
One guest mentioned minor condensation/drippiness at the front of a glamping tent; described as not a major problem but worth noting for tent stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from twin and family rooms to triple, quadruple and glamping tents; typical capacities are 2–4 guests depending on the room type, and cribs or extra beds are not available.
The property operates three private hot‑spring baths, including indoor and open‑air options that use free‑flowing spring water; guests can reserve use through the ryokan.
There is no regular public airport shuttle listed; the usual route is by train to Ueda (or direct trains from Tokyo) then a short local train/bus or taxi to Bessho Onsen—contact the ryokan in advance if you need pickup assistance.
The area is most conveniently reached by train (about two hours from Tokyo); Matsumoto is the nearest regional airport and Ueda is the local rail hub for onward travel to Bessho Onsen.
Staff are accustomed to international guests and provide English support for common requests, though complex needs are best noted in advance.
The ryokan serves seasonal kaiseki and hot‑pot cuisine and offers breakfast; dinner availability is limited and often requires advance notice when booking or before arrival.
Guests can enjoy traditional onsen bathing, yukata, seasonal kaiseki meals, a garden designed by Kazuyuki Ishihara, and a quiet ryokan atmosphere typical of Bessho Onsen.
Bessho Onsen is a compact hot‑spring town with historic temples, shrine streets and small shops to explore on foot, plus regional attractions such as local temples and nearby castles for day trips.
Check‑in is generally from 15:30 to 21:00 and check‑out from 08:00 to 11:00; guests should inform the ryokan of expected arrival time and present photo ID at check‑in.
Pets are not allowed; the ryokan offers private onsen baths for guests but full property privatization is not standard; there are small shops and convenience stores in the town within walking distance for basic supplies.