Hotel Mori no Kaze Nasu
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 86 reviews
Hotel Mori no Kaze Nasu sits on the wooded slopes of the Nasu Highlands and presents itself as a modern hot-spring inn blending contemporary design with traditional touches. The property markets itself as a ryokan with onsen in Nasu, offering panoramic mountain views from many rooms and public spaces. Guest accommodation typically follows a tatami-plus-bed layout, with air conditioning, work desk, refrigerator and in-room tea/coffee facilities; rooms aim to balance compact, efficient layouts with natural materials and quiet outlooks toward surrounding forested terrain.
Public bathing facilities form the core of the property’s appeal: guests can use a variety of thermal experiences including indoor baths, a rooftop open-air bath with wide views, a microbubble tub and a sauna, alongside larger communal bathing areas. The spring water is described locally as brownish iron-sulphide type, and the hotel also provides different bathing formats that include novelty tubs and relaxation pools. Onsite amenities extend to a restaurant and bar, a lounge, free parking and electric-vehicle charging, plus a front desk, shuttle services and family-oriented features that make it convenient for mixed groups and visitors travelling with pets in designated areas.
Dining is split between creative Japanese and Italian menus with breakfast options presented in both Japanese and Western styles; the kitchen offers multi-course dinners that many guests highlight as a key part of the stay. Staff service is consistently noted for accommodating dietary requests and arranging local activities such as lakeside walks, fruit-picking and seasonal outdoor sports. Practical conveniences include meal-service choices, luggage assistance and chartered transport options, making the property a straightforward choice for visitors seeking a ryokan with onsen in Tochigi who want accessible thermal facilities plus modern hotel comforts.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hotel Mori no Kaze Nasu
Positive Reviews
Friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviews praise polite, helpful and accommodating staff across reception and F&B, noting attentive service, cordial interactions and willingness to handle requests during their stay.
Excellent food (dinner and breakfast)
Guests repeatedly highlight outstanding meals—especially the Italian/western dinner and high-quality breakfast—calling dinner ‘amazing’ and the cuisine a major highlight of the stay.
Outstanding onsen and spa facilities
The hot springs, including outdoor pools, onsen day bed, sauna and spacious bathing areas, are frequently described as relaxing, spacious and a key reason guests enjoyed their visit.
Clean, comfortable rooms and modern refurbishment
Many reviewers mention nicely updated rooms, clean water areas and comfortable tatami-style beds, describing the rooms as warm, tidy and thoughtfully furnished.
Scenic, secluded location and nearby attractions
Guests appreciate the quiet, forested setting with beautiful mountain views and convenient proximity to attractions (e.g., Teddy Bear Museum), describing the location as secluded and picturesque.
Negative Reviews
Poor pre-arrival communication and responsiveness
Several guests report slow or missing replies to messages before arrival; staff sometimes did not respond to requests made in advance, causing inconvenience and the need for follow-up calls.
Meal options and booking inflexibility
Some guests were surprised that an Italian dinner was provided by default with no obvious way to select a Japanese option on booking; staff were at times unable or inflexible when asked to change meal choices.
Problems with pet policy and staff behaviour
One reviewer reported serious issues: contradictory pet policy, last-minute refusal to allow a dog, enforced carrying rules, extra charges and rude or unprofessional behaviour from some staff and management, which created a stressful stay.
Weak Wi‑Fi and limited English-speaking staff
A few guests noted poor Wi‑Fi performance and that only a small number of staff spoke English, which made communication harder for non-Japanese speakers.
Occasional noise and limited on-site activities
Some visitors mentioned noisy large groups during meals and that there was little else to do on site, which affected the quietness and variety of activities for certain stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
The hotel offers twin, triple and quadruple rooms with combinations of beds and futons; maximum occupancy varies by room type and some rooms include futon bedding for children. Cots and extra beds are not available, so check room details when booking.
The property features a hot spring public bath, open‑air (rotenburo) baths, a sauna and hot‑tub facilities with views of the Nasu highlands. Towels and basic bath amenities are provided in the bathing areas.
Private or reservable family baths are not listed among the standard facilities; guests should contact the hotel directly to ask about any private‑use options or occasional reservations.
A reservation‑only shuttle runs between JR Nasushiobara Station and the hotel (scheduled departures from the station and return times are posted on the hotel access page) and must be booked in advance by phone. The hotel does not list regular airport transfer service; most guests arrive via train plus the station shuttle or by car.
The nearest regional airport is Fukushima Airport (around 50–55 km); from major Tokyo airports travel time is considerably longer. Recommended routes are train to JR Nasushiobara Station then the hotel shuttle, or driving (free parking and an EV charging point are available).
Japanese is the hotel’s primary language, but staff regularly assist international visitors and can help with basic English enquiries; contact the hotel in advance for specific language or accessibility needs.
The hotel has one main restaurant serving Japanese cuisine using local Nasu ingredients, with buffet/creative options and an American/Asian breakfast; a bar is also available for evening drinks. Many meal plans include dinner and breakfast, so check your booking details.
Nearby highlights include Rindo Lake (Lake View), the Teddy Bear Museum, Nasu Highland Park, Nasu Safari Park, and local museums and wineries; the hotel is positioned as a good base for Nasu highland sightseeing. The property also operates a fruit park and seasonal farm experiences on site.
Standard check‑in is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM and check‑out is from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM; the hotel asks guests to inform them of expected arrival time in advance. Luggage storage at reception is available outside these times.
Pets are not allowed at the property. For groceries and convenience items there are local shops in the Nasu area; the front desk can give directions to the nearest convenience store or supermarket.