Senjukaku
9,2/10 Exceptional - Based on 371 reviews
Senjukaku (Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku) sits in a wooded pocket of Yamanouchi and blends early 20th‑century architectural details with traditional ryokan elements. The property is arranged around manicured gardens and features a small on‑site art gallery and a gift shop, giving public spaces a calm, museum‑like quality. Shuttle connections to nearby stations are provided for guests, and the hotel is a short drive from the trailhead for the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, making it a convenient base for visitors who want easy access to local attractions while staying in a quiet hot‑spring setting.
Bath facilities form a key part of the experience: the hotel operates a large public bathing hall, an outdoor hot‑spring bath framed by the gardens and several family baths that can be reserved for private use. There is also a heated indoor pool and optional massage services, and some room categories include private hot‑spring taps. Water is drawn continuously from the local source and circulated through the baths, so guests can choose between communal bathing or booking a private soak; the layout positions Senjukaku as a ryokan with private onsen alongside communal options suitable for couples and families.
Guest rooms range from tatami suites to hybrid Japanese‑Western layouts, all furnished to emphasise natural materials and garden or mountain views. Meals are presented as seasonal multi‑course kaiseki prepared with local produce and regional Shinshu beef when in season. Practical amenities include free Wi‑Fi, multilingual front‑desk service and on‑site parking; for travellers seeking a ryokan with onsen in Nagano, Senjukaku balances traditional atmosphere with straightforward access to the region’s hot‑spring towns and nearby nature sites.
Highlights of this ryokan
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Review summary for: Senjukaku
Positive Reviews
Very attentive and helpful staff
Multiple guests praised the exceptionally friendly, caring and helpful team — assistance with luggage, shuttle service to/from Yudanaka station, lending boots/umbrellas, helpful service in dining and occasional special gestures that made stays memorable.
Excellent onsen (public and private)
Reviewers highlighted superb hot spring baths that are clean, relaxing and well maintained; private onsen options were available and appreciated, with different baths offering varied temperatures and experiences.
Delicious breakfast and dinner
Many guests complimented the food — high-quality, well-presented traditional Japanese meals for both breakfast and dinner, with some Western options noted. Dining was repeatedly described as a highlight.
Ideal location and beautiful setting
The ryokan is praised for its picturesque gardens, views and peaceful atmosphere. It’s conveniently located near the Snow Monkey Park (about a 30-minute walk) and provides easy early access to the park; free shuttle and parking were also valued.
Authentic traditional ryokan experience
Guests enjoyed the traditional design and ambience — tatami rooms, yukata, ritual of the ryokan, and overall tranquil, timeless feel that delivers an immersive Japanese stay.
Negative Reviews
Some areas feel dated and in need of renovation
Several reviews mentioned that parts of the property (bath/sinks, bathrooms, pool and general areas) appear aged and would benefit from refreshing or renovation despite being kept clean.
Futon comfort issues
A number of guests found the futons too thin or firm, causing discomfort for some — several suggested that futon quality affected sleep quality and would prefer softer mattresses or Western beds.
Occasional room issues (musty smell, shower pressure)
A few guests reported a musty odor on arrival that required airing the room, and isolated complaints included low shower pressure in some rooms.
Wi‑fi and modern conveniences inconsistent
At least one review noted that Wi‑Fi was not ideal, and a few comments implied that some modern comforts could be improved alongside renovations.
Limited dining options nearby
One reviewer pointed out there is no restaurant on site (for that stay) and found the village’s only nearby restaurant poor; this may be relevant for guests expecting more local options outside the ryokan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from traditional two-person tatami rooms to larger suites that can host families; some rooms accommodate about 4–6 guests — check the specific room capacity when booking.
Yes; the property offers public indoor and outdoor hot spring baths plus reservable family/private baths for private use.
Pets are not allowed at the property; guests with tattoos may be restricted from using public bathing areas, though private baths offer an alternative.
Yes, the ryokan provides a complimentary pick-up shuttle from Yudanaka Station — please reserve the shuttle at the time of booking or in advance.
The nearest station is Yudanaka; most visitors travel via Nagano Station (shinkansen) and then take the local train or bus to Yudanaka. From Tokyo airports allow roughly 2–3 hours travel time by train and transfers.
English-speaking staff are commonly available and the ryokan can assist international guests with basic requests and directions.
Expect a traditional Japanese stay with tatami rooms, seasonal kaiseki-style meals, a Japanese garden and an onsen-centered atmosphere; yukata and toiletries are provided.
Senjukaku is close to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park (a short drive) and the Shibu/Yudanaka onsen area; there are local shops and convenience stores in nearby Yudanaka and a gift shop on site.
Standard check-in begins at 15:00 (guests are asked to inform the property of expected arrival time) and check-out is by 11:00.
The ryokan serves seasonal multi-course dinners and breakfast on site; if you need to add meals or have allergies/dietary requests, inform the property in advance so they can accommodate you.