Mizubasho no Yado Higashi
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Mizubasho no Yado Higashi is a traditional Japanese inn tucked into the forested slopes of Katashina in Gumma, offering a quietly restored ryokan experience that emphasizes tatami rooms, futon bedding and an irori-style lounge. Rooms are described as classic Japanese-style with private toilets and shared bathing facilities, and public spaces retain a warm, communal atmosphere for reading or gathering around the hearth. The property sits within easy reach of nearby outdoor attractions, making it a practical base for White World Oze Iwakura ski access in winter and Oze National Park trails in summer.
The property operates its own natural hot spring facilities: an outdoor rotenburo and indoor baths that are available round the clock, with the option to reserve indoor bathing time for privacy. This configuration positions the ryokan with private onsen Gumma among small hot-spring stays where guests can book a quieter bathing slot; guests should note that tattoo policies can limit access to some communal areas. Bath water is drawn from a local source and the layout prioritizes modest, uncluttered bathing spaces suitable for solo unwinding or a private bathing reservation.
Meals at the ryokan focus on home-style and seasonal ingredients served in shared dining areas, with breakfast typically presented in a straightforward, local style and dinners featuring regional produce when available. Practical amenities include on-site parking, coin laundry and optional outdoor barbecue or leisure facilities arranged on request, which can be useful for longer stays. The inn’s scale and traditional service suit travelers seeking a compact, local ryokan with onsen amenities in Gumma prefecture, particularly those planning ski days or nature excursions nearby.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Mizubasho no Yado Higashi
Positive Reviews
Clean, spacious traditional rooms
Many guests praised the large Japanese-style rooms with clean futon sets, comfortable for families and groups.
Relaxing onsen (hot spring)
The onsen is frequently mentioned as very pleasant—hot, clean, sometimes with a small outdoor bath, open long hours and helpful after hiking.
Tasty, well-prepared meals
Several reviews highlight delicious breakfasts and dinners made with local ingredients, described as healthy and carefully prepared; breakfast coffee was noted as a bonus.
Friendly, helpful staff and shuttle service
Staff are described as welcoming and attentive; reviewers appreciated luggage help and complimentary shuttle/transport to/from the mountain parking/shuttle points.
Quiet, traditional ambience and good base for hiking
Reviewers valued the peaceful rural setting and unique ryokan atmosphere; many found it an ideal base for Oze hikes and a restful escape from busy tourist spots.
Negative Reviews
Insect problems reported
Multiple guests reported insects—bugs inside rooms or corridors and many stink bugs in the facility; open doors in the evening were noted to attract insects.
Limited cooling / no air conditioning
Several reviewers complained there was no air conditioning (only fans), causing discomfort in hot weather and making stays unpleasant for some.
Remote location with few shops/food options
The property is in a remote area with few nearby shops or restaurants; guests warned that buying groceries or using a microwave to prepare food is difficult and the nearest supermarket can be far by bus.
Some facilities lack modern amenities
Common criticisms include absence of washlet (bidet) toilet seats and thin tatami/futon padding for some guests; a few found parts of the property dated.
Booking/price issues and occasional cleanliness concerns
A small number of guests reported booking misunderstandings that led to extra charges and one or two severe complaints about cleanliness and many bugs in rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with futon bedding; most rooms accommodate 2–3 people depending on the room type. Cribs and extra beds are not available.
The property offers indoor hot-spring baths and an open-air onsen; indoor baths are available 24 hours and private use can be requested. Note that guests with tattoos may be restricted from public bathing areas.
There is no regular hotel airport shuttle listed; guests normally arrive by car, taxi or local bus from the nearest stations. The nearest bus stop (Konaka) is a short walk from the ryokan and JR Numata Station is roughly a one-hour drive away.
There is no direct airport transfer; visitors typically travel via major Tokyo-area airports then continue by train or car to JR Numata and onward by bus or taxi to the ryokan. Expect additional ground travel time from any major airport.
Staff may speak limited English; English is not guaranteed. Bringing a translation app or simple Japanese phrases is recommended for smoother communication.
You can expect a traditional, modest ryokan stay with tatami rooms, futon bedding, communal bathing and homestyle Japanese meals offered as options. The atmosphere is local and practical rather than luxury.
The ryokan is close to ski areas (White World Oze Iwakura about a 7-minute drive) and sits near Oze National Park; other regional sights such as waterfalls and Lake Chūzenji are reachable by car. Outdoor activities like skiing and hiking are popular in the area.
A car is the most convenient way to explore; the property provides free on-site parking. Local buses serve the area and taxis can bridge links to nearby stations and ski resorts.
Standard check-in starts at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00. Guests arriving later in the evening should inform the ryokan in advance.
Private use of bathing facilities is possible on request; pets are not allowed at the property. Small shops and convenience stores are available in the village or a short drive away for basic supplies.