Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya
8,1/10 Excellent - Based on 149 reviews
Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya occupies a hillside spot within the compact village of Nozawa Onsen, where many rooms look out to Mount Kenashi and the Chikuma Valley. The property blends light, modern communal areas with traditional Japanese elements: tatami-floored rooms, futon sleeping options and Western beds are all offered across room types that can accommodate solo travellers through larger groups. The name reflects those vistas and the layout suits visitors who want the village atmosphere; the hotel presents itself as a ryokan with onsen in Nagano and keeps a clear focus on a measured, local-style stay.
Onsite facilities include multiple in-house onsen baths and public hot-spring bathing spaces, a restaurant that serves Japanese-style dinners with vegetarian options, a small bar and complimentary Wi‑Fi throughout. The hotel operates family-friendly room configurations and non-smoking policies, with practical amenities such as private parking, shuttle arrangements for airport or gondola connections in season, and a front desk that assists with transfer and lift information. Room categories range from compact doubles to larger Japanese–Western suites, giving flexibility for couples, families or groups seeking a mix of comfort and traditional features.
Accessibility is a strong point: the property sits within a short walk of the village moving walkway that leads to the ski slopes, is close to communal soto-yu baths and a minute or so from the local bus stop, making it easy to reach lifts and regional transport. The location works year-round — focused winter access for skiing and snow activities, and summer options such as hiking, gondola-assisted mountain biking and village walks — while the onsen facilities provide a reliable way to relax after active days. The hotel’s practical services and integration with village infrastructure make it a convenient base for exploring Nozawa Onsen and the surrounding Nagano area.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Nozawa View Hotel Shimataya
Positive Reviews
Excellent location and scenic views
Many guests praised the hotel's central but quiet location with great views over the village and mountains; convenient access to town, bus stop and slopes and complimentary shuttle service to the gondola was highlighted by multiple reviewers.
Friendly, helpful staff
Numerous reviews mention very friendly, accommodating staff who helped with reservations, spoke good English and provided attentive service throughout guests' stays.
Relaxing onsen facilities
The onsen is frequently praised as a highlight — described as large, comfortable and offering great views; some guests appreciated 24‑hour access and the ability to adjust water temperature.
Good food with varied dinners
Many guests enjoyed the meals, especially the traditional Japanese dinners; reviewers noted the chef made efforts not to repeat menus and breakfasts offered both Japanese and Western options.
Ski‑friendly amenities and overall value
Guests staying for skiing noted useful facilities for ski equipment, shuttle service to gondolas (bookable in advance) and generally considered the hotel good value, especially for half‑board stays.
Negative Reviews
Firm beds and thin bedding
Several guests found mattresses, futons or pillows too hard or thin; some travellers doubled up futons or requested alternatives to improve comfort.
Some rooms are dated and need maintenance
A number of reviews describe rooms as older/retro, run down or in need of refurbishment; while clean, certain rooms showed visible wear and would benefit from updates.
Onsen/window cleanliness concerns
A few guests reported that parts of the onsen and its windows (in particular the ladies' onsen) were not as tidy as expected and could be cleaned more regularly.
Bathroom/plumbing issues and noise
Isolated reports mentioned bathroom problems such as a strong sewage smell, leaking shower fittings and an annoying water‑dripping noise outside some rooms.
Wi‑Fi coverage and minor breakfast variability
Some guests noted limited Wi‑Fi coverage in parts of the property, and a small number felt breakfast quality or variety could be improved despite many others praising the meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary from single/double to larger Japanese–Western rooms; capacities range by room type from 1 up to 6 guests—please check the specific room description when booking.
Yes — the property has in‑house, gender‑separated onsen with village and mountain views; the baths can be used privately and are available 24 hours without reservation.
Airport shuttle options (shared or private) can be arranged by reservation; the local bus stop is a minute’s walk and the moving walkway/gondola area and slopes are a short stroll from the hotel.
Staff at the hotel speak English and Japanese.
The on‑site Shimataya Restaurant offers a traditional kaiseki dinner with two evening seatings and can accommodate vegetarian diets and common allergies if notified in advance.
The hotel sits in compact Nozawa Onsen, close to public soto‑yu baths (including O‑yu), local restaurants and shops, with easy access to the gondola and village slopes; nearby regional sights include Ryuoo Ski Park and Jigokudani Monkey Park.
From Iiyama Station take the Nozawa Liner or the Nagaden local bus (alight at the final stop) for a short uphill walk to the hotel, or take a taxi which is about a 20‑minute journey.
Standard check‑in is 15:00–19:00 and check‑out is 10:00; please contact the hotel ahead of time if you expect to arrive after 19:00.
Pets are generally not accepted—please contact the hotel to confirm individual cases; service animals should be arranged with staff in advance. The onsen can be used privately as noted by the property.
Nozawa Onsen is a compact village with local shops and convenience stores within walking distance; for larger supermarkets you can travel to the nearby town of Iiyama.