Sawatari Onsen Miyataya Ryokan
7,3/10 Very good - Based on 3 reviews
Sawatari Onsen Miyataya Ryokan sits in the small hot-spring community of Sawatari, a short drive from Nakanojo in Gunma Prefecture. The property presents a traditional ryokan layout with tatami-floored guest rooms and futon bedding; many room options are arranged for families and groups. Standard in-room amenities include air conditioning, a television and refrigerator, while bathrooms are commonly shared rather than en suite. Practical details that visitors should note: check-in is generally between 13:00 and 18:30, check-out by 10:00, and the property operates a cash-only payment policy. Free onsite parking and complimentary Wi‑Fi are provided, and the facility includes elevator access and features for guests with reduced mobility.
The bathing facilities centre on a communal hot-spring experience with an indoor public bath and an open-air bath that use the local spring supply, positioning the ryokan as a straightforward ryokan with onsen in Gumma. Spa-style services such as massages and wellness packages are offered, and staff can assist with arranging private-use options where available by request. Bathing etiquette is observed: separate areas for men and women and communal-use rules apply. Guests looking for a private onsen should check availability in advance, as the property’s principal offering is shared hot-spring access rather than guaranteed in-room private baths.
Set among forested hills, the ryokan is a practical base for outdoor activities year-round — hiking, canoeing and nearby ski areas — and lies roughly a 30‑minute bus ride from Nakanojo Station. Local sights include stepped streets and mountain viewpoints, and the town’s small cluster of inns gives a quieter alternative to larger resort destinations. The ryokan’s simple meal service emphasizes local seasonal produce in set breakfasts and dinners; this makes the property suitable for travellers seeking an authentic, low-key onsen stay with accessible transport links in Gunma.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sawatari Onsen Miyataya Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Scenic open-air bath with beautiful foliage
Guest praised the outdoor onsen for its stunning autumn leaves and scenic atmosphere.
Friendly and helpful staff
Reviewers mentioned that the staff were pleasant and provided good service during their stay.
Good quality hot spring water
Guests commented positively on the onsen water itself, noting it was nice and enjoyable.
Delicious cuisine
Several guests highlighted that the meals were tasty and well prepared.
Negative Reviews
Limited electrical outlets in rooms
A guest reported there was only one power outlet in the room, which can be inconvenient for charging multiple devices.
Onsen cleanliness concern
One reviewer felt the hot spring was a bit unclean or needed better maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with futons; options include small rooms for couples and larger family rooms that can sleep several guests. Please add the exact number and ages of guests when booking to confirm occupancy.
The property offers communal hot spring baths and an open-air (rotenburo) bath fed by the local Sawatari spring. Bathing is shared by gender in public facilities unless you arrange otherwise with the ryokan.
Private baths are not listed as a standard facility; guests should request private-use options directly with the ryokan in advance to confirm availability. The staff can advise whether a timed private bath can be arranged.
There is no advertised regular airport shuttle; contact the ryokan before arrival to ask about possible pick-up or private transfer. Most guests travel by train to Nakanojo or Iwashima and then use the local bus or taxi to Sawatari.
From Tokyo, take train toward JR Agatsuma Line to Nakanojo or Iwashima Station, then take the local bus to Sawatari (about 25–30 minutes) or a short taxi ride. From regional airports use trains and a final bus/taxi leg; driving is also common with on-site parking available.
Standard check-in hours are in the early afternoon until early evening and check-out is by mid-morning; please notify the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance. Note the property locks its entrance overnight, so late arrivals should be communicated ahead of time.
Staff primarily speak Japanese but they can handle basic English inquiries and will help with local directions and logistics. If you have specific requests or limited English, informing the ryokan before arrival helps them prepare.
Sawatari is a small onsen town ideal for onsen-hopping, short hikes and local food experiences; nearby attractions include Shima Onsen, Kusatsu area attractions and scenic local steps and lakes. The ryokan is a convenient base for exploring the region’s hot springs and nature trails.
Pets are not permitted at the property. The town has small shops and a famous local manju shop for snacks and souvenirs; larger supermarkets and more services are in Nakanojo town a short drive away.
The ryokan offers traditional Japanese meals and breakfast options, and can accept requests for dietary needs if informed in advance. Specify any allergies or special requirements when you book so the kitchen can prepare accordingly.