Residence Yasushi
9.6/10 (Based on 181 reviews )
389-2502 Nagano, Nozawa Onsen, Toyosato 8853-1 , Japan
Residence Yasushi is a modern “kakure-yado” (hidden inn) in Nozawa Onsen, Nagano, set in the quiet Shinyu area near Tsutsujiyama Park and the Kitashinano forest, around a 5–10 minute walk from the village center. The property’s key feature is its in-house onsen: two private thermal hot-spring baths (kashikiri use) supplied by the milky Shinyu waters, known locally for changing tones through the seasons and for mineral content. Reservations can be arranged at the front desk. Guests also have easy access to nearby public soto-yu baths. On site, a club room serves a buffet breakfast with international and local options, and there are relaxed shared spaces such as a reading room, plus practical winter facilities like a secure heated ski and boot room.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Very nice service and friendly staff
- Private onsen/hot spring can be booked for exclusive use
- Beautiful/modern rooms; large, clean rooms and comfortable beds
- Great breakfast (some mention daily breakfast, afternoon tea/dessert)
- Convenient location/amenities mentioned: close to town/restaurants, free ski shuttle, helpful staff with bookings (ski tickets/shuttles/taxis)
Negative reviews
- Additional fee for 1-hour late checkout
- Breakfast: limited variety/only one (Western) option; portions small; some found it lackluster/oily; wanted hot chocolate
- Annex/building logistics: cold/dark underground tunnel/corridor; partially flooded corridor; not informed at booking
- Housekeeping/cleanliness issues in some stays: room not cleaned/tidied; room not clean; bath dirty/red mold; floor crumbs in dining area
- Onsen/bath issues: short time slots (30 min); mixed-gender use; water temperature under 40°C; no vending machines/alcohol noted by one guest
Sui Suwako
9.6/10 (Based on 93 reviews )
392-0027 Nagano, Suwa, Kogandori 2-5-27, Japan
Sui Suwako is a small ryokan in Kamisuwa Onsen, set on the shore of Lake Suwa in Suwa (Nagano). The onsen experience is central: all eight guestrooms include a private open-air hot-spring bath, with large windows and heating designed for comfortable bathing even in winter. The property also offers a rooftop panoramic open-air bath overlooking the lake; it is unisex and requires bathing wear. Dining is served in fully private rooms, with Japanese cuisine focused on seasonal ingredients and local Shinshu products, and there is an evening local-sake bar in the lounge. Free parking is available nearby via the sister hotel, with complimentary valet service.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Loved the food (breakfast & dinner) / amazing and delicious meals
- Private in-room onsen and rooftop infinity/mixed onsen highlighted; superb views (stars, sunset/sunrise)
- Staff described as extremely kind, hospitable, accommodating, professional, warm and helpful; outstanding personalized service
- Very clean property/rooms; spacious rooms; peaceful/quiet/serene and private feel (only 7 rooms)
- Nice touches/amenities mentioned: walking around without shoes, tea and local handmade treat on arrival, bar/local sake, free tour of the city's 4 grand shrines
Negative reviews
- Some guests wished for small baked goods to take when going out (as in other ryokans)
- Lots of bugs at Lake Suwa
- Rooftop spa felt a little functional; not for those seeking luxury comforts
- A little pricey / food could have been better for the price (one review)
- Fixed breakfast times (8:00 or 8:30) considered early; one guest noted a yellow stain in the basin and another wished for a clock on the rooftop bath
Ryokan Sakaya
9.6/10 (Based on 15 reviews )
389-2502 Nagano, Nozawa Onsen, Toyosato 9329 , Japan
Ryokan Sakaya is a traditional ryokan in Nozawa Onsen, Nagano, set within the village hot-spring area and a short walk from the main bus stop. The onsen uses sulfurous water that flows naturally from the property’s own source. Bathing options include separate large indoor baths for men and women, gender-separated open-air baths, and a reservable private family bath indoors. The men’s and women’s open-air areas also include a sauna and cold-water bath. The ryokan has an on-site Japanese restaurant with multiple private dining rooms and banquet halls, offering a classic ryokan dining setting. Rooms range from compact to deluxe, and there are also luxury condominium-style units on the premises.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Exceptional service, facilities, onsen, and attention to privacy; very relaxing stay
- Delicious Japanese breakfast served in a private room; dietary needs (dairy-free) accommodated
- Great spa amenities: outdoor onsen plus sauna and cold plunge; family onsen available
- Excellent location: easy access to ski resort/slopes (travelators/Yu Road), plus drying room; close to Chuo bus station and Main St shops/restaurants
- Traditional Japanese style; comfortable with amenities; helpful/kind staff; peaceful foyer with reading nook/library and a gift shop
Negative reviews
- Nothing (some guests reported no negatives and even extended their stay)
- Townhouse in a central area can be a little noisy in the evening (main hotel quieter nearby)
- Walking to the onsen from the room (inconvenient)
- Price
Hotel Tsubakino
9.3/10 (Based on 559 reviews )
381-0401 Nagano, Yamanouchi, Hirao 3294 , Japan
Hotel Tsubakino is a ryokan-style property in Yudanaka Onsen (Yamanouchi, Nagano), close to Yudanaka Station and well placed for exploring the onsen town and nearby mountain areas. The main focus is its hot-spring bathing: separate indoor baths and open-air baths, plus a panoramic large bath with views on clear days. A bookable private open-air bath is available for timed sessions, and bathing amenities are provided in the changing areas. Dining is served on site, with set Japanese meals and breakfast options. Rooms mix traditional elements such as tatami with modern comfort, creating a calm, well-organized base for an onsen stay.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Meals were incredible/delicious (breakfast and dinner, including kaiseki/teppan).
- Exceptional, friendly, attentive and helpful staff/service.
- Onsen facilities were a highlight (public, private, rooftop; great mountain views; indoor/outdoor baths).
- Rooms were clean, spacious/large and comfortable; traditional Japanese-style experience.
- Convenient location close to Yudanaka Station (and transport/bus/train connections); some appreciated station pick-up.
Negative reviews
- High/expensive price; some felt not worth the money or expected more special touches.
- Some areas/interiors/facilities show age or feel dated/rundown (including public bath outdoor area).
- Location described by some as isolated/far from snow monkeys/old city/onsen street; can be tricky to find; slope can be slippery in snow.
- Dinner not always available unless pre-booked; some guests weren’t asked and missed out.
- Practical issues: unusable Wi‑Fi; cold room first night (needed space heaters); only one guest lift; no laundry service; cannot send luggage from the hotel.
Matsumoto Jujo
9.3/10 (Based on 433 reviews )
390-0303 Nagano, Matsumoto, Asama Onsen 3-13-1 , Japan
Matsumoto Jujo is a contemporary ryokan complex in Asama Onsen, Nagano (Matsumoto), bringing together two distinct stays—Matsumoto Honbako and Koyanagi—within a revitalized historic inn site. Onsen is central here: guest rooms are designed with open-air baths supplied by Asama hot spring water, intended for relaxed, private soaking. Beyond the in-room bathing, the project is rooted in the surrounding hot-spring town experience, with check-in at the Oyaki & Coffee café and on-site cultural touches such as a large bookstore. Dining is centered on restaurant options within the complex, including wood-fire grill cooking and menus that highlight local ingredients. Parking is not on-site; guests typically park near the check-in café and walk to the property.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Ambience and facilities; some guests mention a special tuk-tuk for short trips between the cafe and hotel.
- Helpful and friendly staff; attentive service mentioned repeatedly.
- Private in-room onsen/hot-springs baths were a standout feature; some rooms also noted mountain views.
- Food quality often praised (restaurant dinners/breakfast), including seasonal/local ingredients; bakery items (e.g., croissants, matcha donuts) highlighted.
- Unique, stylish design concept (library/bookstore theme; adaptive reuse of old bathhouse/geisha house cafe) and comfortable/clean rooms.
Negative reviews
- Some rooms/areas were dim or lighting was insufficient.
- Location feels remote/off the beaten path; limited nearby activities and transport costs; requests for shuttle to city center/train station/bus stop.
- Check-in can be confusing because it is at a separate cafe/reception location; some guests got lost or found the process awkward.
- Dining/breakfast feedback: some disliked certain dinner menus or found food too complicated/too much; some wanted breakfast choices or better breakfast; some found kaiseki challenging for western appetites.
- Public bath facilities described as small/sparse (e.g., only one shower; no soap/shampoo provided there), and some noted other facility shortcomings (e.g., parking not on site, narrow streets, onsen bath too small, hotel layout confusing, staff English level/training gaps).
Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari
9.3/10 (Based on 135 reviews )
397-0301 Nagano, Kiso, Kaida Kogen Suekawa Kiso 5623-2, Japan
Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari (Kaidakogen, Kiso District, Nagano) is a ryokan set in a quiet highland environment near Mt. Ontake. The key feature is its on-site Kiso Ontake hot-spring bath (100% private source), offered as a large indoor bath and an open-air bath, designed for soaking while feeling the fresh plateau air. Some room categories also include a private open-air bath. Rooms combine Japanese elements (tatami-style options) with modern comfort, often with terraces and garden or mountain views. Dining focuses on regional ingredients from Shinshu and the Kiso area, served in a seasonal, multi-course style, with breakfast available on-site. Practical facilities commonly include on-site parking, a bar, and bicycle rentals for exploring the surroundings.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Phenomenal service
- Beautiful location/setting with mountain views and nature surroundings
- Kind, attentive, accommodating staff; excellent service and communication
- Excellent/phenomenal food (kaiseki), high quality and beautifully presented
- Onsen/outdoor baths described as superb, serene and very nice
Negative reviews
- A bit out of the way/far from key activities or Kiso-Fukushima; often needs a car; allow extra travel time
- Family room for 6 is a bit tight in space
- External maintenance needs attention; garden somewhat neglected; place can feel outdated/vetuste in parts
- Food portions sometimes too much
- Coffee was disappointing (though reasonable)
Yudanaka Tawaraya Ryokan
9.2/10 (Based on 505 reviews )
381-0401 Nagano, Yamanouchi, Hirao 4115, Japan
Yudanaka Tawaraya Ryokan is a traditional ryokan in Yudanaka Onsen (Hirao, Yamanouchi, Nagano), a short walk from Yudanaka Station. The focus is its natural hot-spring bathing: guests can use indoor onsen baths and an open-air bath, with the outdoor bath designed as a stone garden setting and typically offered in reservable private time slots. Rooms are Japanese-style, with tatami flooring and futon bedding; in-room amenities commonly include an electric kettle and refrigerator, plus free Wi‑Fi. Dinner is served on site and is described as a multi-course Japanese meal using local ingredients, with a Japanese set breakfast in the morning. On-site parking is available, and massage services may be offered on request.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Exceptionally friendly, kind, and accommodating staff; helpful explanations and recommendations.
- Traditional ryokan atmosphere with spacious, comfortable tatami rooms, futons, yukata/robes; very clean and well maintained.
- Onsen facilities praised (indoor/outdoor), with reservable private outdoor onsen time slots for guests/couples; peaceful and relaxing.
- Food highly rated: delicious, well-presented traditional breakfast and optional kaiseki dinner (often recommended to book in advance).
- Convenient location near Yudanaka station and close to bus access for the snow monkey park; quiet and walkable to eateries/shops.
Negative reviews
- Dinner must be reserved about a week in advance; difficult to contact the hotel via its website to arrange it.
- Some rooms noisy due to thin walls; some guests also mentioned loud/annoying other guests (e.g., at breakfast).
- Housekeeping not done daily for some stays, leading to rubbish/used dishes accumulating; internet not the best.
- Navigation issues: Google Maps directions/location can be unreliable (may send you the long way or to the back); access involves a steep slope (icy in winter) from the station.
- Room/bath limitations mentioned: no showers in rooms/no private showers; private onsen time is limited; occasional facility issues (e.g., outdoor bath temperature/cold, uneven temperature, timed faucet, water too hot).
Senjukaku
9.2/10 (Based on 365 reviews )
381-0401 Nagano, Yamanouchi, Hirao 1410, Japan
Senjukaku (also known as Kambayashi Hotel Senjukaku) is a traditional ryokan in the Kanbayashi Onsen area of Yamanouchi, Nagano, near the access route to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. The property features 100% natural hot springs with both communal bathing and private baths; the baths are continuously refreshed with free-flowing onsen water, and the outdoor bath faces the garden and mountain scenery. Beyond bathing, facilities include a Japanese garden, a high-ceiling lobby lounge, and an indoor heated pool for guests. Meals are served on site, with Japanese multi-course kaiseki-style dining highlighting seasonal, locally sourced ingredients such as Shinshu beef and regional vegetables. Parking is available, and a pick-up shuttle from Yudanaka Station is offered.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Wonderful, friendly and helpful staff/service (including reception and meal service).
- Onsen/hot spring experience praised (public, indoor/outdoor, and private onsen options).
- Food often described as amazing/delicious; breakfast and dinner/kaiseki highlighted.
- Great location for visiting the Snow Monkey Park (close/walkable); scenic, peaceful surroundings and views.
- Spacious, clean rooms; traditional ryokan experience (yukatas/futons) and amenities appreciated (e.g., shuttle service, boots provided, concerts).
Negative reviews
- Limited food & beverage options beyond included meals; limited dining capacity/need to book dinner in advance; few nearby alternatives.
- Some areas/rooms/bathrooms/pool/corridors described as dated/run down or musty; calls for renovation; occasional cleanliness issues (e.g., mould, dead bugs).
- Private onsen issues for some (e.g., lukewarm water); limited activities besides onsen mentioned.
- Comfort issues for some: futons too thin/hard; room too hot or too dry due to heating; unusual pillows.
- Service/communication and logistics issues: limited English/translation, difficulty contacting for shuttle, limited charging points, no laundry service, check-in only at 3pm (desired earlier).
Shibu Onsen KOKUYA
9.2/10 (Based on 334 reviews )
381-0401 Nagano, Yamanouchi, Hirao 2200, Japan
Shibu Onsen KOKUYA is a traditional ryokan in Shibu Onsen (Yamanouchi, Nagano), set within the historic hot-spring town atmosphere. The onsen is a central feature: the property has multiple baths using free-flowing hot-spring water, including indoor bathing areas, open-air baths, and private-use baths. Men’s and women’s bathing areas rotate daily so guests can experience different baths, and the baths are available around the clock. Some rooms also include en-suite open-air baths. Dining focuses on kaiseki-style courses made with local Shinshu ingredients, served in on-site dining areas. Practical facilities include free Wi‑Fi, free on-site parking, and a free shuttle from Yudanaka Station (from 15:00).
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Lovely, clean traditional hotel in a perfect location
- Very friendly staff; shuttle to the station
- Multiple onsens within the property were amazing
- Food was excellent (dinner and breakfast)
- Facilities were very clean
Negative reviews
- Pillows were very hard / a softer pillow option would have been nice
- Facilities were a bit more rustic than expected
- Dinner felt rushed, with limited service for drinks and side orders
- The room was smaller than expected
- Lots of stairs (fair given the age of the building)
Uematsuya
9/10 (Based on 163 reviews )
386-1431 Nagano, Ueda, Besshoonsen 1628 , Japan
Uematsuya is a traditional ryokan in Bessho Onsen (Ueda, Nagano), set within a small historic hot-spring town. The property has 32 rooms, mostly tatami rooms with futon bedding; many include an en-suite toilet and a private bathtub, and some combine Japanese and Western-style beds. The key feature is its natural hot-spring bathing area, with five large public baths: two indoor baths and three open-air baths. The spring is described as a clear, colorless sulfur onsen; bathing is generally available from 15:00 to 10:00. Meals focus on Japanese course dining using local, seasonal ingredients, with service often arranged in-room. Public areas include a lobby lounge, spa lounge, banquet rooms, and a souvenir shop.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Friendly, welcoming and helpful staff (often English-speaking)
- Great food (dinners/breakfasts, including kaiseki; vegetarian/vegan options praised)
- Onsen/hot spring facilities highly enjoyed (indoor/outdoor baths, relaxing rest areas, views)
- Free shuttle/pick-up/drop-off service to/from the station
- Rooms described as clean, comfortable, spacious/modern; comfortable beds; good WiFi
Negative reviews
- Some areas feel old/dated; some facilities need renovation
- Small/airless bathroom in some rooms
- Noise issues for some rooms (near lift/room service; noisy aircon)
- Access can be difficult: uphill walk/incline to the ryokan; small town with few evening food options
- Room issues reported: insects in room; pillow too soft; futon too thin; missing items (e.g., no in-room hairdryer/clock); credit card payment not accepted
Summary Table
| Position | Hotel | Rating | #Reviews | Stars | Staff | Cleanliness | Comfort | Location | Value for money | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Residence Yasushi | 9.6▲ | 181 | 4▼ | 9.6 | 9.9▲ | 9.8▲ | 9.5 | 9.4▲ | 9.8▲ |
| 2 | Sui Suwako | 9.6▲ | 93 | 5▲ | 9.9▲ | 9.8 | 9.7 | 9.4 | 8.9 | 9.5 |
| 3 | Ryokan Sakaya | 9.6▲ | 15▼ | 4▼ | 9.8 | 9.6 | 9.8▲ | 9.6▲ | 8.3▼ | 9.8▲ |
| 4 | Hotel Tsubakino | 9.3 | 559▲ | 4▼ | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.6 | 9.3 | 8.9 | 9.4 |
| 5 | Matsumoto Jujo | 9.3 | 433 | 5▲ | 9.7 | 9.7 | 9.6 | 8.7 | 8.7 | 9.6 |
| 6 | Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari | 9.3 | 135 | 4▼ | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.6 | 9.0 | 8.7 | 9.4 |
| 7 | Yudanaka Tawaraya Ryokan | 9.2 | 505 | 4▼ | 9.8 | 9.6 | 9.4 | 8.9 | 9.1 | 9.3 |
| 8 | Senjukaku | 9.2 | 365 | 4▼ | 9.8 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 8.7 | 9.3 |
| 9 | Shibu Onsen KOKUYA | 9.2 | 334 | 5▲ | 9.7 | 9.4 | 9.3 | 9.6▲ | 8.8 | 9.3 |
| 10 | Uematsuya | 9▼ | 163 | 4▼ | 9.4▼ | 9.0▼ | 9.2▼ | 8.6▼ | 8.9 | 8.9▼ |
FAQ
Sui Suwako is a strong pick if you want the onsen experience to be fully private, since every guestroom comes with its own open-air hot-spring bath. It also features a rooftop panoramic open-air bath overlooking Lake Suwa, with bathing wear required. Meals are served in fully private dining rooms with seasonal Japanese cuisine and local Shinshu products.
Ryokan Sakaya is a traditional choice right in the Nozawa Onsen hot-spring area, within easy walking distance of the main bus stop. Its sulfur onsen comes from the ryokan’s own source, with separate indoor baths, gender-separated open-air baths, and a reservable private family bath. The open-air areas also include a sauna and a cold-water bath for a full spa-style circuit.
Residence Yasushi is a modern hidden-inn style stay in the quieter Shinyu area, a short walk from the village center. It offers private, bookable thermal baths fed by the milky Shinyu-source waters, with reservations arranged at the front desk. You also have convenient access to nearby public soto-yu baths, plus a relaxed club room and practical ski storage in winter.
Matsumoto Jujo is a contemporary ryokan complex in Asama Onsen that focuses on private soaking with open-air baths in the guest rooms. The experience is tied to the hot-spring town, with check-in at the Oyaki & Coffee café and a large on-site bookstore adding a cultural twist. Dining highlights local ingredients, including wood-fire grill options within the complex.
Shibu Onsen KOKUYA fits travelers who want to stay inside the historic onsen-town atmosphere while enjoying several baths on site. It offers indoor and open-air baths with free-flowing hot-spring water, plus private-use baths, and the men’s and women’s bathing areas rotate so you can try different spaces. Kaiseki-style dining features local Shinshu ingredients, and there is a shuttle from Yudanaka Station in the afternoon.