Nitaya
7,6/10 Very good - Based on 15 reviews
Nitaya is a compact family-run ryokan in the Sarugakyo Onsen area of Minakami. The property offers around ten all-tatami Japanese-style rooms furnished with futons, a small seating area, television and basic toiletries; some economy rooms use shared bathroom facilities while other room types include a private toilet. The atmosphere is homely and unpretentious, with hospitality delivered directly by the owners in a communal dining setting. Practical amenities include complimentary Wi‑Fi and on-site parking, and the reception operates on a limited afternoon schedule.
The bathing facilities are supplied from a town-owned spring and are operated as a 100% source-flowing onsen, with both indoor baths and an outdoor tub that changes with the seasons and is available around the clock. The water is described as a calcium–sodium sulfate–chloride type with a near-neutral pH and is traditionally used for relief of neuralgia, muscle and joint stiffness and general fatigue. For guests seeking a straightforward traditional soak, Nitaya presents a clear example of a ryokan with onsen Minakami, favouring communal bathing rather than private, in-room baths.
Meals emphasise freshly prepared local produce — river fish, seasonal mountain vegetables, handmade yuba and locally stored rice — served as multi-course, home-style dinners that reflect the proprietor’s cooking. The ryokan is well placed for outdoor activities such as canoeing, rafting, hiking and access to nearby ski areas, making it convenient for year-round nature-based trips. As an unassuming, family-operated ryokan with onsen Gumma, Nitaya suits travellers who prioritise simple, traditional rooms, warm personal service and direct access to regional outdoor pursuits.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Nitaya
Positive Reviews
Helpful, welcoming staff
Staff were described as very nice and welcoming, assisting guests with directions and practical needs and even providing printed instructions in the guest's own language.
Assistance despite late arrival
Staff were willing to help guests even when arriving late, ensuring check-in or support outside usual hours.
Traditional ryokan atmosphere
Several guests appreciated the old-style ryokan charm and relaxing ambience, finding it pleasant and atmospheric.
Good location and nearby onsen
Location was praised as convenient and relaxing; one guest noted proximity to a nearby public onsen (まんてん星の湯).
Good value/price
Guests commented that the price felt very reasonable and offered good value for the stay.
Negative Reviews
Poor soundproofing
Multiple guests reported inadequate sound insulation: conversations and plumbing noises from other rooms were easily heard inside guest rooms.
Nighttime noise/disturbances
There were incidents of loud noise from neighbouring rooms late at night (past midnight), causing difficulty sleeping for some guests.
Meal could not be eaten
At least one guest reported being unable to eat the provided meal during their stay (no further detail given).
Allergic reaction / dust issues in room
One guest experienced persistent sneezing after entering the room and kept tissues on hand, suggesting possible dust or allergen concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are mainly Japanese-style and the property lists triple and quadruple options; family rooms are available and configurations with futons typically sleep between 1 and 4 guests.
Yes — the ryokan features a hot spring including an open-air bath; the spring is described as a continuously flowing natural source and public bathing is provided for guests.
The property does not advertise a guaranteed private onsen rental; please contact the ryokan in advance to request private use or confirmation of private-bath options.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; guests usually arrive by train or car and should contact the property directly if they need a special pick-up or transfer arrangement.
By distance the nearest airport mentioned is Matsumoto (about 154 km), but most guests travel via Tokyo and then by train to Jomo‑Kogen or Gokan stations followed by a local bus or taxi to Sarugakyō Onsen.
Staff are described as friendly and helpful; some basic English support is available but it is advisable to notify the ryokan in advance if you need English-language assistance.
Nitaya is a small, family-run ryokan with tatami rooms and futon bedding, free Wi‑Fi and free private parking, and it serves traditional Japanese meals (breakfast is offered; dinner availability should be confirmed at booking).
The ryokan sits in Sarugakyō Onsen (Minakami) and is close to Naeba Ski Resort (around 19 km); other nearby destinations include Kawaba and local Sarugakyō sights such as the Sekisho (checkpoint) area and walking routes.
By public transport take the Joetsu/Joetsu‑Shinkansen area trains to Jomo‑Kogen or the Joetsu Line to Gokan, then a local bus or taxi to Sarugakyō (the Sekisho‑ato stop is nearby); by car it is roughly 20 minutes from the Tsukiyono (Tsukiyono/ 月夜野) exit on the Kan‑etsu Expressway and free on‑site parking is available.
Pets are not permitted and parties are not allowed; there is no mention of an on-site shop, so guests should expect small local stores in the Sarugakyō area and can plan to stop at a supermarket before arriving if needed.