Ryokan Biyunoyado
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 341 reviews
Set in the Yudanaka hot-spring district of Nagano, Ryokan Biyunoyado presents a measured blend of traditional ryokan hospitality and practical modern comforts. The property occupies several floors of a classic Japanese inn and frames mountain and town views from many rooms and public spaces. Public indoor and open-air baths use the local mineral spring water, and onsen facilities are complemented by massage services and a small lounge; this makes it a straightforward choice for travellers seeking a ryokan with onsen Nagano experiences tied to the Snow Monkey and nearby ski areas.
Guest accommodation ranges from tatami-mat Japanese rooms with futon bedding to mixed Western–Japanese layouts, and certain deluxe rooms include an open-air bath attached directly to the room, effectively offering a ryokan with private onsen Nagano option for those wanting extra privacy. Rooms are equipped with standard amenities such as flat-screen televisions, kettles and complimentary Wi‑Fi, and guests are provided yukata robes for onsen use. The dining programme focuses on multi-course Japanese meals prepared from regional ingredients, and the property operates a staffed service system to assist with meal delivery and local arrangements.
Functionally arranged for visitors to the region, the ryokan provides a shuttle connection to the nearby train station and the main attractions, along with on-site parking and multilingual staff at times. Communal areas include a small gift shop, karaoke and a café space for light drinks; seasonal menus and activity options such as guided access to the monkey park or transfers to ski areas can be arranged through reception. The overall offering targets travellers who want an authentic yet accessible hot-spring stay within Nagano without extensive planning.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryokan Biyunoyado
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff
Multiple reviewers praised the welcoming, helpful and accommodating staff who provided pick‑up/drop‑off, local guidance and went above and beyond to assist guests.
Excellent traditional meals (kaiseki)
Guests repeatedly highlighted the high quality of the kaiseki dinners and Japanese breakfasts — described as delicious, generous in portion and a key part of the authentic experience.
High‑quality onsen experience
The onsen offerings received strong praise: relaxing mountain spring water, a variety of baths including private and rooftop options, and particularly memorable views from the rooftop onsen.
Convenient location and free shuttle service
Reviewers appreciated the ryokan’s location near Yudanaka (short walk to the station) and the free shuttle service to/from the station and the Snow Monkey Park, making visits very easy.
Authentic, traditional ryokan atmosphere and comfortable rooms
Many guests enjoyed the traditional tatami rooms and overall charm; rooms were often described as spacious with comfortable bedding, delivering an authentic Japanese stay.
Negative Reviews
Some rooms cramped or unsuitable for larger groups
A few guests reported that certain family/quad tatami room layouts with four futons could be cramped, obstruct movement and limit access to balconies or sinks.
Property and furnishings showing age
Multiple comments mentioned that parts of the ryokan and its furniture feel dated and could benefit from modest refurbishment or refreshes.
Private onsen size and access limitations
While the onsen is well regarded, some found private baths a bit small for two and noted limited flexibility in booking or accessing private baths.
Food/menu timing and repetition
A few reviewers noted breakfast was scheduled too early for them and that longer stays experienced menu repetition after a few nights; one guest also felt the restaurant atmosphere was lacking.
Minor service and amenity issues
Isolated reports noted curt or stressed communication from staff, poor towel quality/insufficient towels, and that the stay could feel pricey for some — though many said it was worth the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity depends on room type; options include twin rooms, traditional Japanese rooms with multiple futons and family rooms that sleep larger groups. Please state the total number of guests and any children with ages when booking so the ryokan can assign the correct room.
The property offers public hot-spring baths, an open-air rooftop onsen and bathing areas with jacuzzi functions. Some baths may be rotated or closed briefly for cleaning, so check the schedule with reception on arrival.
Yes — a private rooftop open-air bath is available by reservation and usually carries an additional fee; advance booking is recommended. Contact the ryokan before arrival to reserve a time slot.
Tattoos may restrict access to public bathing areas at this ryokan; guests with tattoos are advised to request a private bath reservation or ask reception for guidance. Staff can suggest suitable options to ensure a comfortable experience.
Yes — the ryokan provides free shuttle service to/from Yudanaka Station and to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park; shuttle use typically requires advance notice. Make your shuttle request at least one day before arrival to guarantee a pickup.
Most guests travel by train: take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano (about 1.5 hours) then a local train to Yudanaka; the ryokan is a short walk or shuttle ride from Yudanaka Station. The nearest regional airport is Matsumoto (roughly 65 miles/100 km), but many travelers prefer rail connections via Nagano.
Several staff members speak English and the ryokan lists an English hotline for guest assistance. Staff commonly help arrange shuttle requests, onsen reservations and local activity information.
The ryokan serves traditional Japanese meals for breakfast and dinner in its restaurant, with vegetarian, vegan and other dietary options available upon request. Many guests enjoy kaiseki-style seasonal cuisine and traditional room types with tatami and futon options for an authentic stay.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 (3:00 PM) and the check-in window usually closes around 19:00 (7:00 PM); check-out is by 10:00 (10:00 AM). The property entrance is closed between 00:00 and 06:00, so notify the ryokan if you expect to arrive very late.
Pets are not allowed at the property. There is a small minimarket on site and convenience stores and shops in Yudanaka town within walking distance for basic supplies.