Sawaemon
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 19 reviews
Sawaemon is a small, owner-run ryokan set on the wooded slopes near Shirakaba Lake in Chino, Nagano. The property follows traditional Japanese-inn style, offering tatami-floored guest rooms that combine futon sleeping with the option of a western king-size bed adjacent to a tatami area. Rooms are equipped with practical amenities such as a refrigerator, electric kettle and en-suite facilities; complimentary Wi‑Fi and on-site parking make it convenient for guests exploring the Yatsugatake foothills. The house maintains a calm, non-smoking atmosphere and does not accept pets or children, reinforcing a retreat-like tone.
The ryokan centres its appeal on carefully prepared local meals served in the dining room and on bathing choices that include communal hot-spring facilities and a bookable outdoor bath for couples. Many guests highlight plated, multi-course dinners and traditional Japanese breakfasts, and the property asks guests to arrive by early evening if dinner is required. For travellers seeking a secluded spa experience, Sawaemon presents itself as a ryokan with private onsen in Nagano, offering an intimate outdoor soaking option as well as indoor thermal baths and a compact rock sauna.
Practicalities are straightforward: check-in runs from 15:00 to 18:00, check-out by 10:00, and on-site parking is free for guests using the ryokan as a base for skiing, hiking or visiting nearby lakes. The proprietors are frequently praised for personal service, including assistance with local transfers on request. Quiet gardens and hill views frame the property’s compact footprint, making Sawaemon a focused choice for travellers who want a traditional, small-scale ryokan with onsen in Chino and easy access to regional outdoor activities.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sawaemon
Positive Reviews
Tranquil, picturesque location
Guests repeatedly praised the peaceful setting and beautiful views over the hills and mountains, which enhanced relaxation and the onsen experience.
Private outdoor onsen with great views
Private outdoor baths were described as magical, clean, soothing and easy to reserve, providing a memorable and relaxing experience.
Warm, attentive service
The owner and staff were consistently noted as very welcoming, gracious and helpful, assisting with transport and going out of their way to ensure guests’ comfort.
Excellent traditional food
Meals (breakfast and dinner) were repeatedly described as exceptional—well presented, varied and offering an authentic taste of local Japanese cuisine; many said meals were included and of high value.
Comfortable, well-appointed rooms
Rooms were described as spacious, quiet and comfortable with good beds and large windows offering great scenery, supporting a restful stay.
Negative Reviews
Limited towel supply/size
Some guests wished for more towels and larger bath towels provided without having to request them, to use separate towels for the onsen and in-room shower.
Stairs / accessibility issues
Access to top-floor rooms required stairs, which was difficult for elderly guests or those with limited mobility; no elevator was mentioned.
Occasional room odor (mildew)
At least one guest reported a musty or mouldy smell in their room, indicating inconsistent room ventilation or cleaning in some cases.
Outdated in-room shower fittings
A guest who could not use the onsen noted the in-room shower felt old and unfamiliar (described as an older foreign-style), which caused some discomfort.
Perceived high price
One reviewer felt the accommodation was expensive, suggesting some guests consider the cost relatively high compared with expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sawaemon has eight Japanese-style guest rooms in total. Room layouts vary: some rooms are set up for two on futons, while the King room with a tatami area can include a king bed plus two futons (suitable for up to four guests); family-room options are also offered on booking.
Yes — the property features hot-spring facilities including two reservable open-air baths and separate indoor baths for men and women that are always open. Several rooms also have private cave-style baths and there is a stone hot-stone spa on site.
Yes — the outdoor open-air baths can be reserved for private use, and some rooms include their own private baths for exclusive bathing. Advance reservation is recommended.
There is no regular scheduled shuttle service; the ryokan advises guests to use a taxi from Chino Station. The staff may arrange a pickup from a nearby bus stop or station if contacted in advance.
Matsumoto Airport is the closest listed airport (about 32 miles), while access from Tokyo (Haneda/Narita) is typically by train to Chino Station followed by a taxi. Travel times vary; check connections from your arrival airport and allow extra time for transfers.
The ryokan provides information in English on its website and staff assist international guests, but Japanese is the primary language. For special requests or specific language support, contact the property in advance.
Standard check-in starts at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00. Guests who want to be served dinner should arrive and check in by 18:00, otherwise dinner may not be provided.
Yes — the inn serves seasonal kaiseki-style meals highlighting local Shinshu ingredients (examples include Kamo-Nabe and stone-grilled beef) and traditional breakfast. Meals are presented in dining spaces with options for more private seating depending on your booking.
Pets are not allowed at the property. There is no on-site grocery shop; convenience stores and small shops are available in the Lake Shirakaba/Chino area within a short drive.
Nearby highlights include Lake Shirakaba, the Venus Line scenic drive, Kitayatsugatake Ropeway, Suwa Grand Shrine and skiing or mountain activities on surrounding slopes. The ryokan also offers or arranges local activities such as skiing, bicycle rental, paragliding and soba-making.