Futari Shizuka
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 109 reviews
Futari Shizuka sits on the Hayataro plateau at the edge of the Southern Japan Alps, presenting a calm base for mountain access and seasonal scenery. The property frames a landscaped garden with a sheltered open-air hot spring and public bathing area where guests can relax while watching changing foliage and winter snow. Designed as a contemporary traditional inn, the ryokan balances tatami-floored rooms and communal spaces with modern amenities; its offering positions it among sought-after ryokan with onsen Nagano travellers choose for a nature-focused stay.
Guest accommodation ranges from compact single and twin rooms to Japanese-style suites; several room types mention private terraces and, for selected categories, outdoor or in-room baths. Dining focuses on seasonal local produce served in set-course meals and lighter breakfast options, with attentive table service and opportunities for private dining on request. On-site wellness facilities include a sauna and treatment options alongside communal thermal pools; guests looking for seclusion can book the room types that function as a ryokan with private onsen Komagane, subject to availability.
Practical facilities include complimentary on-site parking, 24-hour front desk assistance and reliable Wi‑Fi, making the property a practical choice for hikers, skiers and couples seeking a quiet base. The ryokan is convenient for accessing nearby ropeways, mountain trails and regional attractions, and staff provide local guidance and arrangements for excursions. Room layouts and bath access vary by category, so confirmed details about private-bath rooms and wellness services should be requested at booking to match expectations.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Futari Shizuka
Positive Reviews
Attentive, traditional Japanese hospitality
Many reviews highlight exceptionally warm, polite and attentive staff who go above and beyond (including personal greetings from management), making foreign guests feel welcome despite language differences.
Excellent onsen and spa facilities
The baths receive frequent praise — outdoor onsen with forest/mountain views, very warm pools, a hot sauna and even in‑room ofuru upgrades that guests loved.
Outstanding meals (breakfast & dinner)
Breakfasts and multi‑course dinners are repeatedly described as fresh, beautifully presented and plentiful; special dietary efforts (e.g. vegan preparations) were also noted positively.
Authentic, peaceful location and atmosphere
Guests value the ryokan's authentic Japanese character, tranquil mountain/riverside setting, nearby sightseeing and walking options, and the calming gardens and traditional aesthetics.
Clean, well‑maintained property and comfortable rooms
Multiple reviewers mention spotless upkeep, high‑quality amenities, comfortable or spacious rooms (some with great mountain views), and useful extras such as dog‑friendly facilities.
Negative Reviews
Older / slightly dated building
A few guests felt the property is beginning to show its age or has an old‑fashioned atmosphere, even though it is generally kept in very good condition.
Food can be too specialised or not to everyone’s taste
While many praised the meals, some found the traditional kaiseki/seafood menus too specialised, with limited alternatives for guests who do not enjoy that style or specific dishes.
Limited coffee / breakfast options
Several guests mentioned poor or limited coffee choices (no milk available in one case) and would prefer more conventional breakfast options or better coffee service.
Access and transport challenges
A number of reviewers noted that the location can be difficult to reach by public transport and recommended taking a taxi from the station unless bus timing is perfect.
Room layout / minor amenity and communication issues
Some practical issues were reported: a room that felt small for two friends, a shower head with no holder, and difficulties in pre‑arrival communication due to language barriers or replies only in Japanese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from single and twin layouts to Japanese-style rooms with multiple futons; some rooms list capacity up to eight or nine guests, and there are two‑room suites for larger groups.
Yes — the property has thermal baths including outdoor and public onsen, and several room types include private outdoor or in‑room baths; private-use baths can normally be arranged with the front desk.
The property does not advertise a regular airport shuttle; Komagane Station is about a 10‑minute drive, so guests usually take a taxi or arrange pickup with the ryokan in advance.
The nearest airport is Shinshu–Matsumoto (around 64 km). Most guests arrive by train to Komagane or by highway buses from Nagoya or Shinjuku, then use a short taxi ride or prearranged transfer to the ryokan.
Staff are primarily Japanese; many guests report helpful service and some English, but it’s advisable to prepare a translation app or brief written instructions for complex requests.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 and check‑out by 10:00; if you expect to arrive late, notify the ryokan in advance so they can note your arrival time.
Pets are not commonly accepted without prior confirmation — contact the ryokan directly for any pet requests. Private use of baths or reserved spaces can often be arranged; request this before arrival.
Yes — Futari Shizuka has an on‑site restaurant serving multi-course, seasonal Japanese meals and an Asian breakfast; the ryokan typically offers traditional cuisine with local ingredients and can accommodate some dietary requests if informed ahead.
Small shops and convenience stores are available in Komagane town within a short drive; for a wider selection plan to stop in town or at Komagane Station before reaching the ryokan.
The ryokan sits near the Central Alps and the Komagane Ropeway (Senjojiki cirque), offering hiking, mountain scenery and seasonal activities; other local sights include Takato Park, Lake Suwa and nearby onsen and ski areas depending on the season.