Onsens around Tobira Onsen and Utsukushigahara Onsen × Accommodation With Relaxing Welcome LoungeRecommended Hotel·Ryokan

All rooms are equipped with a semi-open-air Onsen bath using the Tateshina Sanshitsu hot spring. For meals, we offer a seasonal Japanese Kaiseki course carefully prepared with ingredients from Shinshu. Enjoy the cozy lobby with a fireplace, the rich scenery unique to the highlands, and the serene atmosphere of modern Japanese design. Experience an extraordinary retreat that invites you to moments of comfort and relaxation.

"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.

Hotel Shoho is located on a hill in Matsumoto City, offering sweeping views of the majestic Northern Alps and the castle town of Matsumoto from every guest room. Utsukushigahara Onsen is a historic hot spring area that has been loved since the Edo period; it was once home to “Goten-no-Yu,” a villa built by the lord of Matsumoto Castle for relaxation. At our Hotel, you can enjoy five types of baths: an open-air bath, private baths, a large public bath, a jacuzzi, and a footbath. For guests who have traveled all the way to Utsukushigahara Onsen, we prepare our cuisine with care—creative Japanese kaiseki featuring seasonal Shinshu ingredients and special kaiseki using Shinshu’s signature branded ingredients. Matsumoto City and its surroundings are within easy reach, as are Kamikochi, Azumino, and the Utsukushigahara Highlands. Please visit Utsukushigahara Onsen—an ideal base for sightseeing.

"Oiwaraya Ryokan" is a tranquil Onsen accommodation nestled in Matsumoto's Utsukushigahara Onsen, which has been flowing for 1,300 years since the Nara period. We offer heartfelt hospitality in a harmonious blend of traditional and modern Japanese-style comfort. Our facility features seven unique bathing areas, including an indoor bath surrounded by the scent of cypress, an open-air bath with a sense of freedom, stone baths, and garden baths with seasonal views. Each bath offers a distinct charm, allowing you to enjoy Onsen hopping and immerse yourself in the changing ambiance from morning to night, providing deep relaxation to soothe your travel fatigue. Our cuisine showcases vibrant kaiseki dishes made with seasonal ingredients from the local Shinshu region. Each dish, beautifully presented on exquisite plates, reflects the flavors of the seasons and the skill of our chefs, offering a true "culinary art." Centered around Shinshu beef, river fish, and mountain delicacies, our meals allow you to savor both taste and the changing seasons. To complement your dining experience, we offer wines crafted at our own winery, "Domaine de Yunohara," using grapes nurtured in Shinshu's pure air and rich soil. These carefully produced wines pair perfectly with Japanese cuisine. With a variety of white, red, and sparkling options available, you can choose according to your preference. Each room is uniquely designed to provide a relaxing space that combines traditional Japanese tranquility with modern comfort. At Oiwaraya Ryokan, we strive to be a warm and welcoming accommodation that makes you want to return. Along with our dedication to fine cuisine and heartfelt hospitality, we aim to provide each guest with a serene and relaxing experience. Our staff looks forward to welcoming you with all our hearts.