Hotakajo
--- The property is not yet rated
Set in a converted merchant’s villa amid gardens at the foot of the Northern Japan Alps, Hotakajo presents a traditional ryokan experience in Azumino, Nagano. The property preserves heavy timber construction, crafted zelkova and hinoki fittings and a layout that blends formal reception rooms with a series of detached garden pavilions and a renovated annex completed in summer 2021. Public spaces emphasize natural materials and period furnishings, while room types range from historic Japanese-style suites in the garden to refurbished Japanese–Western rooms with modern comforts.
Thermal water is drawn from the Nakabusa hot spring source; the ryokan operates communal baths including a hinoki indoor bath and a garden open-air rotenburo framed by seasonal planting. Several room types provide their own fed outdoor baths, offering private bathing on natural onsen water, and day-trip bathing is available for visitors. These features make Hotakajo a focused choice as a ryokan with onsen in Nagano and, in particular, as a ryokan with private onsen for guests seeking in-room rotenburo.
Meals follow kaiseki traditions, highlighting Azumino vegetables, local river fish and regional beef in multi-course presentations served in the dining room or to guest tables; vegetarian requests are accommodated. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, luggage storage and complimentary parking, and staff provide English assistance for arrivals and local sightseeing. The setting suits hikers, cultural visits and relaxed stays among rice terraces and museums, offering a measured blend of historic character and contemporary service.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hotakajo
Positive Reviews
Beautiful traditional ryokan and impressive onsen
Multiple guests praised the authentic, old‑style Japanese architecture and the exceptional design of the onsens (including a wooden/hinoki bath). Reviewers described the baths as stunning and well‑designed, with rotating men’s/ladies’ baths so guests could experience both.
Excellent, abundant and beautifully presented food
Many reviews highlighted delicious, multi‑course meals (breakfasts and dinners), often described as plentiful and beautifully presented. Staff accommodated dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian dishes) and some guests specifically recommended the cuisine as a reason to stay.
Warm, attentive and helpful staff
Guests repeatedly noted very welcoming, accommodating and caring staff who upgraded rooms on occasion, provided attentive service, and made stays comfortable. English‑speaking reception/hosts were mentioned positively.
Peaceful grounds and relaxing atmosphere
Reviewers enjoyed the tranquil countryside setting, beautiful peaceful grounds and a relaxing, homely atmosphere that provided an escape from busy city life. Several described the property as a lovely retreat for rest and recovery.
Spacious comfortable rooms and private onsen options
Guests reported large, comfortable rooms and appreciated private onsen options (some rooms include private baths with garden views). Upgrades to nicer rooms were mentioned and guests found the rooms clean and restful.
Negative Reviews
Outdoor onsen sometimes closed or unavailable
A number of guests noted the outdoor onsen was closed or not available during their stay, which was disappointing for those expecting outdoor bathing.
Property is somewhat remote
Several reviews pointed out the ryokan’s rural location—not as close to Matsumoto as some expected and the nearest supermarket can be a long walk (around 40 minutes), so guests should plan transport accordingly.
Meal portions can be very large with limited choices
At least one reviewer suggested the dinner portions were quite large and that offering more menu choices or portion options might be welcomed by some guests.
Morning men’s bath temperature was low for some
One group reported the temperature in the morning men’s bath felt too low, which disappointed guests who were looking forward to the morning soak.
Accessibility issues for some guests
A review mentioned there were barriers for guests with accessibility needs, indicating that parts of the property may be difficult to access for those requiring mobility support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from twin and Japanese-style rooms for two up to suites and family rooms that sleep up to four guests, with futons available in some rooms.
Yes — the property features public onsen baths for guests, and some annex rooms include a private open-air bath.
Some annex rooms come with a private open-air bath; for private onsen reservations or exclusive-use requests contact the ryokan directly before arrival.
The listing does not show a scheduled airport shuttle; the nearest airport is Shinshu‑Matsumoto (about 27 km), so guests usually arrange taxi or train transfers and should ask the ryokan if pick-up is possible.
Staff are highly rated for helpfulness and some English is spoken, but guests with specific language needs should confirm with the property in advance.
There is an on-site restaurant serving Japanese/local cuisine for lunch and dinner and breakfast is available; the hosts can usually accommodate dietary requests with advance notice.
Children are not permitted at this property and pets are not allowed.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out is until 10:00; please inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance.
Hotakajo is in the Hotaka (Azumino) area, about 24 km from Matsumoto, with easy access to sights such as Matsumoto Castle, Kamikōchi, and the Hakuba ski region by car.
The ryokan provides free private parking; for nearby supermarkets or convenience stores, guests should check local maps or ask the property as the area is semi‑rural.