Around Shibu Pass × Stays Popular For SunsetsHighly rated Hotel·Ryokan

From the moment I was picked up, the staff made a great impression, and as soon as I stepped into the Hotel, I was soothed by a wonderful aroma scent. I was shown to a private Room to check in. The Room had a simple design and was very comfortable to stay in. I also enjoyed choosing my favorite scent with the aroma diffuser in the Room. This time I joined the 1-night, 2-day fasting course. Since it wasn’t a water-only fast, I had carrot juice, homemade umeboshi (pickled plum), bancha tea, and more for dinner and again the next morning. After checkout, they treated me to rice porridge, miso soup, handmade umeboshi, hana ingen beans (runner beans), and bancha tea—everything was very satisfying. Personally, the hana ingen beans slowly simmered over two days with beet sugar were so delicious that I couldn’t help asking if they were available for purchase. After check-in, I also received a brown-rice onigiri with umeboshi, which I enjoyed on my long-distance bus ride home. There is no TV in the Room, but Wi‑Fi is available so you can use your smartphone. However, since it was such a good opportunity, I tried not to use my phone during my stay as much as possible. Time flew by as I read health magazines in the lounge with herbal tea in hand; opened the window in my guest room to read my own book while listening to birdsong; and reviewed personal finances that had been put off due to everyday busyness. From the Onsen bath area in the morning, you can see Mt. Asama—the view was truly wonderful. If there’s one thing to mention: since exercise is part of my routine personally, having showers in every Room would have made it even more comfortable by allowing me to rinse off quickly after working out. Other than that minor point, everything exceeded expectations—the staff were lovely throughout—and it was a stay I would definitely like to repeat.

We visited as a couple and stayed in a Room for two with a private bath. The view from the bath was amazing—we were able to see a sea of clouds, which was the highlight of our stay. If I had to wish for something, it would be for the window to open wider. At first, it seemed like there weren’t many staff members, but every time we passed someone, they greeted us warmly. The Accommodation was quiet, and we could also enjoy complimentary drinks on the balcony, which was wonderful. The road getting there was quite tough, so it felt like an accomplishment! It was such a warm Accommodation—they even checked in with us about the weather.

The Onsen water quality was excellent. From arrival until departure the next morning, we could use the large public bath at any time, and we enjoyed soaking in it many times. The building was kept very clean, and the staff at the Accommodation were wonderful. Although it is located in the central area of Shiga Kogen, it is a quiet environment. The air felt completely different from the heat down below. I think it is also a great base for trekking to places like Takamagahara and Higashidateyama. The only disappointment was that the weather was bad, so we couldn’t see the spectacular Northern Alps view that should have been visible from the window. Next time, I’d like to come back for a retry—possibly during ski season as well.

We stayed here for our ski trip. The location is perfect, right in front of the ski resort. While there are minor points that could affect ratings, overall we were satisfied. The Facility is undeniably old, but the service was good and the meals were as expected. One concern was the slight odor from the drainage in the washing area, which was unfortunate given how great the Onsen was. Also, the cheesecake is absolutely delicious!