Hotel Tamanoyu
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 58 reviews
Hotel Tamanoyu sits in the Asama Onsen district of Matsumoto and blends traditional ryokan elements with practical accessibility. With 35 rooms and capacity for about 100 guests, the property emphasizes barrier-free design across guest rooms, public spaces and some bath facilities, making it suitable for travellers who need step-free access or larger, easier-layout accommodations. Rooms range from tatami-style options to modern Japanese–Western hybrids; in-room amenities typically include an LCD television, kettle and refrigerator, and Wi‑Fi is available throughout the building.
The property is centred on its hot spring offerings drawn from Asama Onsen: alkaline simple spring waters feed multiple communal baths and a set of reservable outdoor bathing rooms. Guests can book private open-air baths for short periods at no additional charge under the house policy, and the hotel operates several viewpoint and barrier-free private baths on upper floors for greater privacy. These combined features make the hotel a convenient choice for anyone searching specifically for a ryokan with onsen Nagano or for travellers wanting a ryokan with private onsen Nagano experience.
Dining follows a regional, multi-course kaiseki approach that highlights Shinshu seasonal ingredients and local preparations; main-course options have included Shinshu beef alongside sashimi, handmade soba and regional vegetables, served in private dining spaces. The hotel also hosts regular live performances and small concerts that contribute to its convivial atmosphere. Practical touches include free on-site parking, multilingual staff, wheelchair-friendly routes and wellness services such as massage and a sauna, positioning the property as a comfortable base for exploring Matsumoto and nearby cultural sites.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hotel Tamanoyu
Positive Reviews
Friendly, attentive staff
Many reviewers praise the team as very friendly, professional and highly accommodating—helping with luggage, transport, special requests, return of lost items and providing thoughtful touches like tea on arrival and local gifts.
Outstanding onsen facilities
Guests repeatedly highlight the onsen experience — private, rooftop, indoor and in-room hot baths described as spectacular, relaxing and a major reason to visit.
Excellent, seasonal cuisine
Meals receive strong praise: multi-course kaiseki dinners, handmade soba, delicious breakfasts and varied, high-quality seasonal dishes (including wagyu) that guests found memorable.
Clean, spacious and comfortable rooms
Rooms are described as clean, roomy and comfortable with very comfy beds; several guests noted modern, well‑equipped bathrooms and attention to detail.
Authentic Japanese ryokan experience
Multiple reviews mention an authentic traditional atmosphere (tatami floors, futons, jinbei pajamas) and activities/entertainment that create a genuine ryokan stay.
Negative Reviews
Location is somewhat remote
Several guests note the property is a bit far from the train station or downtown; most used taxis or a nearby bus service to reach the centre.
Limited English in some cases
A few reviewers experienced limited English-speaking staff, making communication harder for some international guests, although others found staff accommodating to English speakers.
Smoking rooms cause lingering odour
One review reported smoking rooms on each floor causing a smell to embed in carpets and recommended removing smoking rooms or re‑carpeting to address the issue.
No outdoor sitting area
At least one guest mentioned the lack of an outdoor seating area as a drawback to the facilities.
Dinner portion or timing issues for late arrivals
A reviewer wished for a larger dinner set and noted portions may have been smaller when they arrived late, suggesting meal size or timing can affect the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from double/twin layouts to Japanese-style family rooms; some rooms combine beds and futons and can accommodate up to six guests in the largest family room.
Yes — there are public baths including a large open-air bath and four private (kashikiri) open-air baths that guests can use; many bathing areas are barrier‑free.
Tattoos may be restricted in public bathing areas, so guests with visible tattoos should check with reception about private-bath options.
There is no regular airport shuttle; the hotel is best reached via Matsumoto Station (about 20 minutes by local bus or taxi), and the property provides access information.
From major airports take trains or buses to Matsumoto Station and then a local bus or taxi to Asama Onsen; travel from Tokyo or Nagoya typically takes around 2–3 hours overall by public transport or car.
Staff can assist in Japanese and English, and other languages such as Spanish may be available depending on staff on duty.
The ryokan serves traditional kaiseki multi-course dinners and Japanese breakfasts, usually in private dining rooms; children's set meals are available and guests should notify the hotel in advance about any food allergies (vegetarian menus are generally not offered).
Matsumoto Castle and Nakamachi shopping street are about a 10‑minute drive, Azumino about 30 minutes, and mountain destinations such as Utsukushigahara and Kamikochi are within roughly 50–90 minutes by car/bus.
Standard check‑in begins at 15:00 with the latest expected arrival around 22:00; check‑out is by 10:00, and the property’s entrance is typically closed between 01:00 and 05:00.
Pets are not allowed at the property; there is a local market and shops within a short walk (a nearby plaza with seasonal produce), while larger supermarkets and convenience stores are a short drive away.