Oyado Matsubaya
8,1/10 Excellent - Based on 125 reviews
Oyado Matsubaya is a modest, traditionally styled ryokan set on the Tone River in Minakami, offering a compact selection of tatami rooms and futon bedding that reflect a long-established local inn. Located within a short walk of Minakami Station, the property serves as a practical base for outdoor pursuits around Tanigawadake and nearby ski areas. With a small number of guest rooms arranged over a few floors, several accommodations afford mountain or river views while interiors favour natural materials and simple, functional furnishings.
Facilities centre on communal bathing and local dining: the ryokan maintains a public hot-spring bath that faces the river, along with a separate hydro-jet tub and changing facilities; bathing is presented in a communal, non‑private format. Meals focus on seasonal, locally sourced Japanese dishes served in the dining area, and the house provides basic guest services such as free on-site parking, complimentary Wi‑Fi, coin laundry and a small cafe corner. Practical amenities include yukata for guests and luggage handling by the staff, making stays straightforward for leisure travellers and families alike.
Service and atmosphere are regularly cited by visitors as the property’s defining features, with staff interaction described as warm and informal and the building’s scale lending an intimate, low-key character. The ryokan works well for daytrippers and multi‑day stays when combining onsen visits with rafting, cycling or skiing in the region; check‑in and check‑out times and specific room layouts should be confirmed directly with the property. For those searching for a ryokan with onsen in Minakami, Gumma, this establishment offers a traditional, uncomplicated option among the town’s hospitality choices, and it is equally positioned as a straightforward ryokan with onsen in Gumma for regional exploration.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Oyado Matsubaya
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff and personal hospitality
Many guests highlighted very friendly, welcoming staff and owners who go beyond expectations (explaining things carefully, playing piano, offering personal touches) that create a memorable, homey atmosphere.
Nice onsen / bathing experience with river views
The indoor onsen was praised (some rooms/onsen have river views) and is available for relaxing use; several guests specifically enjoyed the bath and found it a highlight of their stay.
Convenient riverside location and access to outdoor activities
Guests liked the location by the river with pleasant views, and its short walk (about 5–7 minutes) to Minakami Station; many recommended it as a base for skiing, hiking and other outdoor activities.
Charming, clean traditional rooms and recent renovations
Rooms were described as cute, spacious and recently renovated using natural materials; many found the traditional Japanese rooms comfortable and free of unpleasant renovation smells.
Good food and value
Multiple reviews praised the meals (breakfast and dinner options, flexibility to accommodate requests) and several guests felt the stay offered good value for money.
Negative Reviews
Cold hallways and heating/dryness issues
Some guests found hallways and parts of the property cold in winter. Others noted that running heating/air conditioning caused dry rooms and that humidifiers were not provided.
Shared or external toilets and cleanliness concerns
Several reviewers mentioned toilets located outside rooms or shared facilities; some reported cleanliness issues (dirty toilet bowls, occasional untidy common areas).
Noise from trains or building areas
A few guests experienced noise (train sound or noise from a shaft/nearby shoot) that affected rest, particularly in corner rooms or during certain seasons.
Inconsistent amenities and small maintenance issues
There were isolated reports of missing requested items (yukata not provided), thin futons, lukewarm shower or sink water, and areas (stairs near the bath/dressing room) needing better cleaning.
Language barrier and occasional service friction
While staff are friendly, some guests experienced difficulty with language which made certain interactions harder (and one review noted slow Wi‑Fi when many guests used it).
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms vary from single/dormitory options to family rooms; configurations use futons and can sleep from 1 up to about 8 people depending on the room type.
Yes — the ryokan has natural onsen facilities and public baths for guests to use.
The onsen is generally available around the clock, but specific hours or temporary closures may be announced at check‑in.
A dedicated private onsen is not clearly listed as standard; guests should ask reception on arrival or in advance to request any private-use options.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the ryokan is within walking distance of Minakami Station, and guests usually arrange taxis or contact the property for transfer advice.
Staff are primarily Japanese but are known to be helpful; some English is spoken, though proficiency varies, so notifying the ryokan in advance can help with communication.
Oyado Matsubaya has an on-site Japanese restaurant serving local cuisine; breakfast and dinner are offered (often by reservation or included with certain plans).
Yes — Minakami town and at least one convenience store are within easy walking distance, typically around 5–10 minutes on foot.
Pets are accepted on request; please inform the ryokan before your stay to confirm their pet policy and any requirements.
Standard check-in is from 16:00 to 22:00 and check-out is by 10:00; note the front desk may close earlier in the evening, so inform the ryokan of late arrivals in advance.