Shinano-Takehara Station × Accommodation With An Animal Crossing-Like WorldHighly rated facilities at Hotel·Ryokan

We stayed here for a family trip during the Obon holidays. They kindly provided taxi pick-up and drop-off to Nagano Station, which was very helpful. The staff were attentive, and the facility was clean and pleasant, making our stay truly relaxing. The meals were also excellent. We would love to visit again in a different season. Thank you very much.

We stay here every year around this time. The calm atmosphere is unchanged, the food is delicious, and the staff are wonderful as always—we are very satisfied every time. Until now, we have visited as a couple, but this year we came as a family of four with our two children. Our children also had a very fulfilling stay and were extremely happy. We would love to return next year as a family of four.

Obuse, the town of Hokusai and chestnuts, is known for its beautiful streetscape that feels almost like a theme park. We arrived a little early by car, so we visited Gansho-in Temple and Jokoji Temple before heading to Masuichi Kyakuden. The ceiling painting at Gansho-in—Katsushika Hokusai’s “Phoenix Glancing in All Directions”—was truly breathtaking. As soon as we pulled up in front of Masuichi Kyakuden, a staff member came right out and efficiently carried our luggage inside. The highly sought-after “Chestnut Dessert Suzaku,” which is notoriously difficult to secure, will be offered from 9/10 this year. Because guests staying at Masuichi Kyakuden receive priority guaranteed access, it becomes even harder to make an Accommodation Reservation for stays from 9/10 onward. Since our stay was before then, making a Reservation was easy. Stepping inside Masuichi Kyakuden, you’re immediately enveloped by the stately atmosphere of the kura storehouse building. Our Room was on the second floor; we chose the Relax Twin style. Despite being in a kura-style structure, it also has a terrace, with plenty of natural light and an open feel. There are also more traditional, calmer kura-style Rooms available; however, we were told they are designed with high ceilings to avoid any sense of confinement. Designed by architect John Morford, the Room is fully Western-style with extensive use of stainless steel—its glass-and-stainless bath is well worth seeing. Amenities are L’Occitane; the refrigerator includes complimentary drinks; plus coffee and tea—everything you’d expect from a high-end Ryokan-style stay is provided, making the Room very comfortable. For dinner, we walked about three minutes to Obusedo Honten (part of the same Masuichi group). Every dish showcased the head chef’s experience and refined sensibility. The soup course, simmered dishes, and grilled items had a Kyoto kaiseki influence—above all else, the dashi was exceptional. The sashimi was fresh and perfectly seasoned as well. Local ingredients were used throughout for very high satisfaction overall. One note: the first items served—lightly dressed Kurakake beans and Matsumae-zuke—are not part of the course menu itself (just so you know). They’re clearly intended as snacks with alcohol—especially sake brewed by Masuichi Ichimura Sake Brewery within the same group—and both paired beautifully with their sake: firm Kurakake beans soaked in elegant dashi alongside Matsumae-zuke packed with rich seafood umami made each sip even better than before. In autumn Obuse becomes all about chestnuts; while we couldn’t try “Chestnut Dessert Suzaku,” we did get to enjoy “Mont Blanc Suzaku,” a Western-inspired take on Suzaku. It’s available at their affiliated shop “Entotsu.” We nearly gave up due to long lines but learned that overnight guests can make Reservations—so we were able to enjoy it without waiting. If you stay at Masuichi Kyakuden, be sure to indulge in one of their “Suzaku”-style chestnut sweets if you can. Overall it was an outstanding stay—we thoroughly enjoyed Obuse from start to finish.

I stayed in a newly renovated Room, and it was wonderful. The in-room perks were excellent. In particular, the all-you-can-eat gelato was an incredibly generous service—perfect after the Onsen—and I enjoyed trying many different flavors. Everything was delicious. The pre-dinner aperitif can be chosen from the menu, and the lounge coffee machine is truly high-quality, so I used it many times. Both the quality and quantity of the meals were very satisfying, and what impressed me most was the staff. There were many young team members, but everyone’s hospitality was outstanding. Some staff members spent a long time chatting with elderly guests because they were approached for conversation, yet they responded without showing any displeasure at all—I was genuinely impressed. You can also enjoy two different types of Onsen water, and I think this Accommodation offers excellent value for money. I will definitely return again. Thank you very much for taking such great care of me.

This trip was to celebrate my mother’s birthday. She requested to see the Onsen she had visited with my late father during their honeymoon, and also the snow monkeys at Jigokudani Monkey Park. We chose this Accommodation because Reviews repeatedly mentioned the private family bath and a homey, relaxing atmosphere. True to the Reviews, it was a wonderfully quiet and peaceful place. The warm glow of washi paper lamps displayed throughout was beautiful, and we could feel the proprietress’s thoughtful care in every detail. And the food—absolutely delicious! Dinner just kept coming (laugh). Every dish was freshly made and served hot. The best of all was the kake soba hand-made by the chef that very morning. I love soba and visit many places, but I’m sorry—this was truly the best I’ve ever had anywhere. Breakfast also made us happy with piping-hot dashimaki tamago. The highlight of breakfast was the miso soup—I wanted to take home the whole pot. As we’ve gotten older, we choose our trips carefully based on both meals and Accommodation quality, and this place offered outstanding value for money. More than anything, we made unforgettable memories here. On our way out, I bought one of the lamps that were on display at the Accommodation as a gift for my mother. Thanks to you, it became the best birthday present possible. We’ll come again in winter—and again for her birthday next year too. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to listen kindly to my mother’s stories (＾ω＾)

After earning my Onsen Sommelier Master certification, I’ve been gradually visiting Onsen around Japan. The water quality in Shibu Onsen is truly wonderful. I was surprised by how many international visitors there were. Because the public bath tour was crowded, I couldn’t visit them all… but I was able to enjoy almost all of the baths at the Ryokan. The staff were very friendly and relaxed, which made my stay truly soothing. To Mr. Y from the male staff: thank you for all the fun conversations. If you have time, please do come to Niigata again.

Okushiga is the most remote area within Shiga Kogen. In return, the snow quality was excellent, there were fewer people, and our stay was very comfortable. The Hotel itself felt quite old, but functionally there were no particular issues. However, the ski lockers were small and limited in space, so it was a bit difficult to fit skis and boots inside, and the area for putting on shoes was also cramped. The bath was not an Onsen, but it was spacious and relaxing to use. For dinner we used the French restaurant. Although Reviews were not very positive, the à la carte menu was very delicious. Breakfast had a decent variety and was satisfactory. Bathrobes were provided in the Room. I only realized at checkout that yukata could be provided upon request; I would have liked to have known earlier. The front desk staff responded politely and helpfully throughout our stay.

The owner was very kind and gave us a warm welcome. They recommended many wonderful local attractions, such as apple picking, which we thoroughly enjoyed. The Room was spacious enough for one person, very quiet at night, and provided a comfortable stay. Additionally, the **bath (bathtub)** allowed me to relax as if I were at home. I would love to stay here again if I have the chance!

First, about the room: we chose this accommodation because it was affordable and we were intrigued by the attic room. For two women, the space was sufficient, and despite its age, it was clean with a nice view from the window, which made us very satisfied. Although there is no toilet in the room and I thought it might be inconvenient at night, it was located just downstairs so I didn’t mind. However, during busy periods with many guests, this might cause some stress. As for the food, as mentioned in other reviews, it was absolutely delicious! The salad was crisp and fresh, and each dish felt carefully prepared. The manager’s response? Calm and courteous—it made our stay incredibly comfortable. The scenery of Takayama Village, the shops we stopped by on our way there, the accommodation itself, the food—everything left a deep impression on us. We can’t wait to visit again soon!

Enjoy the sauna without worrying about others! The cold plunge feels great, and relaxing outdoors surrounded by greenery is the best! The Room was unbelievably clean—I was impressed! Spotless! There are no seasonings or coffee, so bring your own. Kitchen appliances and sandals for the sauna are provided.

It was quiet and relaxing, and we were able to unwind comfortably. The breakfast was also very delicious. Thank you very much.

This was my third stay, and as always I was very satisfied with the meals, the baths, and the hospitality. The dinner in particular felt like a course meal, which made it enjoyable to savor at a relaxed pace. Being able to enjoy a variety of wines and sake with the coin system was also a real treat for anyone who loves alcohol. They also provided guidance on recommended spots for firefly viewing, and I was able to see countless fireflies dancing in the night. The mornings and evenings were cool, so the duvet came in handy. I would love to stay again.

I stayed at this Onsen Accommodation for a Multiple Night Stay of two nights. Both breakfast and dinner were served in the same private dining room, and we had the same staff member each time, so we could enjoy our meals in a very relaxed and calm atmosphere. The food was excellent and very satisfying. However, there was no accommodation guidebook in the Room, so I would have appreciated having one.

Located near the center of the nine public bathhouses, and both dinner and breakfast were delicious, made with local ingredients. It was clean and had a calm atmosphere, so we were able to relax and enjoy a restful stay.

We stayed with our 8-month-old child and a family of three. The dappled sunlight through the garden with the white wisteria tree was pleasant, allowing us to relax and enjoy the time as the day turned to night. As it is a property limited to one group, I think it is perfect for relaxing. (It was also very nice for us as a family to have a place where we could let our child roll around.) The hostess takes care of everything from check-in to serving meals and providing shuttle service. She is a very loving person, accommodating our various requests, allowing us to have a pleasant stay. This time, we requested various things like baby food and a surprise cake for our wedding anniversary. They prepared local vegetables and a cake from a recommended shop, allowing us to feel the essence of the area while staying at the property. Around the property, there are stylish shops utilizing the townscape of storehouses. If you visit, I think you can ask the hostess for recommendations on good places to visit. This is a property recommended for a long and leisurely stay. This time, we relaxed from lunchtime until the next day's noon. (The coffee we had on the garden veranda in the morning was delicious.) It seems they also accommodate late check-out until 5 PM, so it might be worth considering for your travel schedule.

I visited Suzaka for reasons other than sightseeing. After finishing my main errands, it was still before check-in, so they kindly stored my luggage. They also used a map to explain the area around the Accommodation so I could spend my free time well. It was raining, but thanks to their help I was able to enjoy exploring the area. After checking in and having dinner out, I had a great time in the evening chatting with the Accommodation staff and a guest from Spain. After check-out, they drove me to where I needed to go, which was a huge help. If I have another chance to visit Suzaka, I would love to stay again.

The top recommendation is the private open-air bath on the rooftop. There are two options, A and B; if you can book the evening slot to watch the sunset, choose A. Since the rooftop bath has only one faucet and no shampoo or other amenities, it’s best to wash up first in the large public bath on the first floor, which is fully equipped. Guests are responsible for laying out their own futons, including putting on the sheets. This may not suit those looking for a classic Ryokan experience where your bedding is prepared while you’re at dinner, but room rates are more reasonable as a result. The Shinshu beef sukiyaki dinner was excellent. We bought drinks and snacks at Yamauchi Shoten across from the Ryokan (open until 7:00 PM—please note), but we ended up too full and had to take them back with us the next day. The Ryokan is also perfectly located for visiting multiple public baths, making it easy to take a break at the Accommodation between stops around mealtimes. Shuttle Service times are set to match Nagano Dentetsu limited express trains. If you’d like to explore town after check-out, you can take a bus (e.g., from Shibu-Wago bus stop) to Yudanaka Station, but be aware there may be little time between arriving at the station and your train’s departure.

This accommodation is located right next to a famous architectural accommodation in Shibu Onsen, in front of the ninth bath of the Sotoyu Meguri. It is an ideal location for enjoying the Sotoyu Meguri. The hospitality from all staff, including the proprietress, is exceptional, making it a very pleasant place to stay. While the guest rooms are slightly dated, the meals are impeccable in both variety and taste, and of course, the onsen water soothes deep into your body to relieve daily fatigue. For us as a couple, this accommodation exceeded our expectations.

Located in a serene natural setting, this accommodation offers an escape from everyday life. Staying here while listening to the sound of the flowing river is truly soothing. The onsen with natural hot spring water is at the perfect temperature, allowing you to relax for as long as you like. My daughter was delighted to play with a wild raccoon. Although we only had breakfast, it was well-balanced and gentle on the body in both content and portion size. The accommodation is clean and comfortable, making it a place we’d love to visit again next time with dinner included!

I was able to use the day-use Onsen Facility, and in such a nature-rich setting, I truly felt refreshed. Breakfast was reasonably priced as well, and I had a comfortable stay—next time, I’d like to plan my trip so I can stay a bit longer.