Ryuudo
9,2/10 Exceptional - Based on 12 reviews
Ryuudo is a traditional mountain ryokan set along a riverside slope in Minakami, offering a compact ensemble of low-rise buildings and guest rooms arranged to maximise views of the surrounding forested hills. The property is arranged across several wings with a mix of standard Japanese rooms, mezzanine-style suites and a few detached units, all designed for a quiet, restorative stay. Public facilities include a small sauna and a communal relaxation area; the on-site layout makes it straightforward to move between rooms and the bathing areas without extensive walking.
The accommodation is best known for its concentrated onsen programme: a network of eighteen outdoor baths that are operated as private, source-fed pools alongside additional indoor and room-attached baths. Most bathing facilities are supplied directly from the ryokan’s spring and run free-flowing without reheating, and visitors report the water as weakly alkaline with a smooth, skin-friendly feel (around pH 8). Several open-air baths can be used on a first-come basis and a larger riverside rotunda bath is offered for unscheduled private use when available, making Ryuudo a compelling ryokan with private onsen Minakami and a strong example of a ryokan with private onsen Gumma for travellers seeking secluded thermal experiences.
Meals follow a regional approach, with multi-course dinners highlighting local mountain produce and a main dish that typically features locally raised beef, while breakfasts are served in a traditional Japanese set. Guest rooms are equipped with basic modern conveniences such as air conditioning, a writing desk and television, and the property provides free parking for self-drive visitors. Note that communal bathing etiquette is observed and access to some baths may be restricted for guests with visible tattoos; the reception staff can explain the bathing procedures and help plan which baths to try during a stay.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryuudo
Positive Reviews
Extensive private onsen selection
The property offers a large variety of private baths (around 17–18), giving guests many choices for different experiences during their stay.
Outdoor baths with great views and 24/7 access
Several baths have an open-air feel with snowy/mountain views; many guests highlighted enjoying them in the morning, evening and under the stars. Private baths are available around the clock, allowing flexible bathing times.
Private-use system for undisturbed bathing
Baths use a token/door-hanging system that lets guests lock the room from inside so they get the entire bath to themselves, which many found especially nice for solo travellers and families.
Friendly, accommodating staff
Multiple reviewers praised the staff as helpful and welcoming, noting accommodating service during the stay.
Delicious, healthy meals served privately
Guests appreciated the food quality—breakfast and dinner described as very tasty and healthy, often served in private dining rooms for a more intimate experience.
Negative Reviews
Remote, mountain access
The property is reached via a mountain road; reviewers advise driving and navigating carefully due to the nature of the route.
Strong cooking odours and dining area smell
Some guests reported that the kitchen location below rooms caused strong fried-food smells to permeate the floor and guest rooms, and that the dining room had an unpleasant odor.
Maintenance and cleanliness concerns
A few reviewers noted worn areas at room entrances and bathrooms and mentioned that parts of the dining area felt a little moldy, suggesting needed upkeep.
Inconsistent communication and service issues
There were reports of limited English spoken by staff, unclear communication, and at least one instance of being pressed to check out earlier than the confirmed time; some pre-requested items were also handled incorrectly.
Limited in-room beverage amenities
At least one guest wished for in-room provision to make hot tea (e.g., hot-water kettle), indicating a lack of basic in-room tea/boiling water convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are generally intended for one to two adults; the property does not accept children and extra beds are not available.
Ryuudo features many mineral-rich baths including numerous private open-air baths and a larger riverside outdoor bath; the spring water is alkaline and noted for a smooth feel (pH around 8–8.5).
Yes — many baths are offered as private (kashikiri) baths that guests use exclusively, typically via an on-site reservation/token system; the large riverside bath is usable privately when it is free.
The property does not list a regular public shuttle; guests should contact the ryokan in advance to request any station pick-up or arrange a taxi, and the nearest major airport listed is Niigata (about 192 km).
Standard check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out is from 08:00 to 11:00.
Staff primarily speak Japanese and English ability may be limited; guests are advised to contact the ryokan in advance if they need assistance in English or to prepare a translation app.
Dinner is served as a multi-course kaiseki using local and regional ingredients (typically in a private dining room), and breakfast is provided as a traditional Japanese set meal.
Pets are not permitted at the ryokan; while the facility offers private baths for guests, whole-property privatization is not standard and should be discussed directly with management for special requests.
Ryuudo sits in the Minakami area with river scenery and outdoor activities nearby — popular options include hiking, rafting, and local hot-spring areas; small shops and supermarkets are available in Minakami town within a short drive.
Tattoos may be restricted from public bathing areas at the ryokan; using a private/kashikiri bath generally avoids this restriction, but confirm with staff on arrival if you have visible tattoos.