Hotel Tsubakino
--- The property is not yet rated
Hotel Tsubakino sits in Yudanaka, a short walk from the local train station and within easy reach of Jigokudani Monkey Park and the Shiga Kogen ski area, making it a practical base for mountain activities and wildlife visits. The property presents itself as a modern ryokan that blends traditional Japanese elements with contemporary comforts: many rooms feature tatami flooring and futon bedding while others offer western-style beds. Guests commonly note the elevated bathing facilities—indoor, outdoor and a rooftop bath that frames views of the surrounding peaks—an appealing ryokan with onsen in Nagano for those seeking alpine scenery alongside thermal relaxation.
Accommodation options range from simple Japanese-style rooms to larger suites, and most units include private bathrooms with a shower; the hotel also offers rooms with in-room spa tubs on select room types. Public baths are available for general use, and several small private baths may be reserved for exclusive use for an additional fee, so the property functions effectively as a ryokan with private onsen in Nagano for travellers who want extra privacy. Practical amenities include in-room Wi‑Fi, on-site parking, a small gift shop and optional massage services, supporting stays for families, couples and independent travellers alike.
Meals are presented in a multi-course format that highlights local produce and Shinshu beef, while breakfast can be chosen from Japanese or Western options; the on-site restaurant and a relaxed lobby area with a fireplace provide communal spaces to unwind after outings. The hotel’s combination of traditional touches, convenient rail access and multiple bathing options makes it a straightforward choice for visitors planning day trips to the snow monkey area, skiers heading to nearby slopes, or anyone looking to experience hot-spring bathing without traveling far from Yudanaka town.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hotel Tsubakino
Positive Reviews
Outstanding onsen facilities
Multiple public baths (indoor and outdoor) and a highly praised rooftop onsen provide a relaxing experience; a private onsen option is available (reservable) for a more intimate soak.
Exceptional food and breakfast
Evening meals are described as plentiful, beautifully presented and made with local ingredients (teppanyaki, sushi, kaiseki-style), and the traditional Japanese breakfasts (varying daily) are consistently praised.
Attentive, friendly and professional staff
Guests repeatedly mention warm, helpful service from check-in (welcome drinks) through dining and on-site services; staff accommodate needs and provide a polished, welcoming experience.
Authentic ryokan atmosphere and traditional amenities
The property offers a strong traditional vibe—tatami rooms, yukata provided for wearing around the hotel and at meals, classic decor and small personalized touches that create a memorable, authentic stay.
Good location, comfortable rooms and extras
Rooms are described as comfortable and spacious with nice mountain views in some categories; the hotel is conveniently located for the Snow Monkey Park and has extras like a small shop, complimentary morning coffee and sake tasting/bar options.
Negative Reviews
Sleeping on futons can be uncomfortable for some guests
Several guests who are not used to futon-style sleeping reported poorer sleep and back discomfort after the stay.
Private onsen cost and clarity
Some guests found the private onsen fee to be unexpectedly extra or relatively pricey (and one felt it had been presented as if included), causing disappointment for families or visitors on a budget.
Dinner timing and pace
A few guests noted that dinner service can start early and feel rushed, which may not suit those who prefer a slower-paced meal.
Some rooms/facilities feel slightly dated
A small number of reviewers described parts of the property as a bit old-fashioned or showing age, despite the overall positive impression.
Compact bathrooms in certain room types
At least one guest mentioned that some bathrooms (described as box-style) are small, though clean and functional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary from doubles/twins to Japanese-style rooms with futons that can accommodate families; capacity ranges typically from 2 up to about 4–6 guests depending on the selected room type—check the room description when booking.
Yes; the property has indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths and offers bookable private open-air baths, with towels and toiletries provided for guests.
There is no regular airport shuttle; the usual route is to travel by train to Yudanaka Station and request the hotel’s complimentary station pick-up or walk a short distance to the ryokan.
Japanese is the primary language, and front-desk staff can assist guests in English for common requests and directions.
You can expect traditional multi-course Japanese meals featuring local Shinshu ingredients, tatami rooms with futon bedding, and guest yukata provided for walking around the onsen town.
The most popular nearby sights are Jigokudani Monkey Park (snow monkeys), historic Shibu Onsen, and the Shiga Kogen ski area, all reachable by short train ride or drive.
Take the train to Yudanaka Station (Nagano Electric Railway); the hotel is a short walk from the station and offers station pick-up on request.
Standard check-in begins at 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00; contact the hotel in advance if you need to adjust arrival or departure times.
Private open-air baths are available to reserve for private use; public-bath rules in Japan sometimes restrict visible tattoos, so reserving a private bath is recommended if you have visible tattoos.
Pets are not permitted at the property, and convenience stores and small supermarkets are within walking distance of Yudanaka Station for basic supplies.