Onsens around Tobira Onsen and Utsukushigahara Onsen × Accommodation With Designer HotelRecommended Hotel·Ryokan

"Tobira," an intriguing name that evokes mystery, brings to mind phrases like "The Door of Truth" or "The Door of Beauty." Nestled in the untouched embrace of mountains and the Usukawa Valley, Tobira Onsen lies beyond Tobira Pass, as if hiding life's happiness. Located southeast of Matsumoto City, it sits at an elevation of approximately 1,050 meters.In spring, vibrant red azaleas bloom amidst lush greenery, reflecting the simplicity and sincerity of human nature.During summer, visitors seeking cool retreats or hiking adventures to Utsukushigahara and Mount Hachibuse bring a lively atmosphere to the tranquil valley. Yet even then, quiet rooms with refreshing breezes attract those who come for peaceful reading.Autumn transforms the mountains into a fiery display of crimson leaves—an enchanting scene reminiscent of Bonnard's paintings. I also cherish winter in Tobira. Resting by a kotatsu after reading for hours while listening to the gentle sound of mountain streams creates moments where distant murmurs or songs seem almost real—a delightful illusion.Though I do not drink alcohol myself, I imagine that sharing sake with close friends around a kotatsu during winter at Tobira Onsen must be extraordinary. Tobira is a haven for hardworking individuals and their families—a place for warmth and joyful gatherings. It remains untouched by those who view Onsen merely as places for indulgence without deeper appreciation.

In the place where Hotel Heidi has built its history, HÔTEL de L’ALPAGE (Hotel de l’Alpage) has now been born.The grounds, befitting the former site of an imperial family villa, are secluded from their surroundings, including the adjacent Venus Line.Surrounded by abundant nature, our Hotel feels as if a French residence has been brought to Nagano.From the guest rooms, you can enjoy sweeping views of Mt. Tateshina and the Yatsugatake Mountains. The spacious interiors are delicately designed with a warm ambiance, offering “everyday life at its finest.”At our restaurant, we aim to serve “a feast you can enjoy every day,” featuring cuisine inspired by France’s gastronomic traditions and wines imported directly from France.This Hotel was created with the hope that you will enjoy a refined and comfortable everyday stay. Rather than simply a stop along your journey, we hope it will be a place you’ll want to “come back to” with your family and loved ones.

SANU 2nd Home is your “second home”—a place to rest body and mind and awaken your senses.Step back from busy city life, feel nature with all five senses, and enjoy a second home where you live with your own hands.Tateshina, stretching across the eastern foothills of Mt. Yatsugatake, is a highland retreat wrapped in cool air and quiet. Explore lakes and forests, take a drive along the Venus Line, or simply unwind at an easy pace while savoring the changing seasons.This white-vessel cabin expresses care for the plants and animals that thrive in the mossy forest—a space created with love for the Earth.Seasonal views framed by large windows and wildflowers placed in a dining vase complete the atmosphere.A sunlit skylight and a layout designed so you can see natural scenery from anywhere in the Room connect indoors and outdoors, making it possible to live alongside nature.In the morning, quietly grind coffee beans on the terrace as sunlight filters through the trees.In the afternoon, play a seasonal music playlist and let yourself sink into sound.In the evening, toast with natural wine while listening to insects sing.At night, add logs to the fire as you drift into thought.How you spend your time is entirely up to you.Find what feels just right for you.

The main building, a three-story wooden structure originally built in 1928, underwent renovation along with the construction of a new bathhouse wing over the course of a year, and reopened in April 2020. While preserving the charm of the early Showa era, the space has been transformed into a more comfortable and atmospheric environment. With the concept of "Staying with Time," we have carefully crafted the Property using natural materials that age gracefully over time, aiming for simplicity and quality, and paying attention to every detail. Although there are no picturesque Onsen towns or breathtaking views, we believe you will feel the accumulation of time and the beauty of a traditional inn in the space that retains its historical essence. Additionally, the ever-changing scenery of the garden surrounding the building offers endless fascination. Time spent savoring the blessings of the countryside. Moments of release as you soak in the waters. Conversations with loved ones. And moments of stillness. We hope that a day spent at our Property will become an irreplaceable "moment in time" for you.

SANU 2nd Home is “another home” where you can truly unwind and awaken your senses.Step back from busy city life,feel nature with all five senses, and live with your own hands in a second home.Among the SANU 2nd Homes across Japan, Shirakabako 2nd is set in a bright forest, with lake activities such as canoeing and boating as well as an amusement park all within walking distance. Just behind the cabin is Shirakabako Royal Ski Resort, making it an ideal base for snow sports.Designed as a “white vessel,” this cabin is built for harmony with the environment. Its honeycomb-inspired form and large picture windows that frame the surrounding landscape are defining features. The space comes to life through seasonal views reflected in the windows and wildflowers arranged in a dining-room vase.In the morning, quietly grind coffee beans on the terrace as sunlight filters through the trees.In the afternoon, play a seasonal music playlist and let yourself sink into sound.In the evening, toast with natural wine while listening to insects sing.At night, feed logs into the fire and lose yourself in thought.How you spend your time is entirely up to you.We hope you’ll find your own perfect way to stay.

In today's online world, messages constantly flow in from all over the globe. But here, take a moment to turn off notifications or even shut down your devices if possible, and focus on the present with those around you. There are no TVs or clocks here.As evening falls, sit on our peculiar terrace in the middle of the rice fields and close your eyes for a while. Feel the scent of the land carried by the breeze. Hear the gentle fluttering of small birds' wings. When your mind feels like it has opened up to a peaceful blank space, quietly open your eyes.The water spread across the rice fields will reflect hues identical to those of the sunset sky. The snow-capped peaks of the Northern Alps will rise higher into view than you ever imagined possible. You might feel as though you’ve been here before, long ago. A profound message beyond words will envelop your entire being.Release & Reconnection Synchronize with something greater than yourself.