In our experience, this cozy Japanese inn nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture offers a slice of authentic rural Japan. About a two-hour drive from Nagoya, it’s a great spot to unwind and soak in the local culture.
The friendly staff, spotless rooms, and free perks like parking and Wi-Fi make for a comfortable stay. We loved the traditional tatami floors and the chance to mingle with other guests in the public bath.
However, be prepared for shared bathrooms, which might not suit everyone’s taste. Also, the remote location means you’ll need a car to explore the area properly.
This place is perfect for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and dive into small-town Japan. It’s ideal for those who want to hike in the nearby mountains, visit historic sites like Achi Shrine, or simply relax in a peaceful setting.
If you’re comfortable with basic amenities and eager for an authentic Japanese experience, you’ll feel right at home here.
This ryokan earned its place in the top 2 ryokans in Shimojo Mura.
Good To Know
Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So is a traditional Japanese inn located in Shimojo mura, Nagano Prefecture, approximately 65 miles from Nagoya Airport.
The inn offers free parking, Wi-Fi, breakfast, a public bath, garden, and BBQ facilities, providing a comfortable and rejuvenating stay.
Guest rooms feature air conditioning, shared bathrooms, tatami flooring, bed linen, and towels, creating a serene and traditional ambiance.
Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So has an impressive 8.7/10 rating from 40 reviews, with guests praising the friendly staff, cleanliness, and overall atmosphere.
The convenient location near attractions like Achi Shrine and Ichiban Shimizu makes the inn an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Shimojo mura region.
Overview and Location
The Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So is a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, located in the village of Shimojo mura in Nagano Prefecture.
It’s situated 8.5 miles from Achi Shrine, 9.4 miles from Achi Shrine Okumiya, and 10 miles from Ichiban Shimizu. The nearest major airport is Nagoya Airport, which is about 65 miles away.
With an 8.7/10 rating from 40 guest reviews, the ryokan is praised for its friendly staff, cleanliness, comfort, value, and location.
Guests can enjoy amenities like free parking, WiFi, and breakfast, as well as access to a public bath, garden, and BBQ facilities.
Amenities and Facilities
Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So offers a range of amenities and facilities to cater to guests’ needs.
The ryokan provides free parking, Wi-Fi, family rooms, and breakfast.
Guest rooms feature air conditioning, shared bathrooms, tatami flooring, bed linen, towels, and slippers.
Common facilities include a public bath, garden, BBQ area, daily housekeeping, luggage storage, and vending machines.
Guests can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and golf within 2 miles.
The ryokan accommodates all ages and provides services for dietary restrictions.
Late arrivals after check-in hours incur a surcharge, and dinner isn’t served after 7 PM.
Guest Experiences
Guests have praised the comfort, friendly staff, and good food at Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So. A guest from Panama, Laura, commented, "Very comfortable. Staff super friendly, good food."
Another guest from Japan, Atsushi, described the ryokan’s "unique location with a clean atmosphere."
Akira, also from Japan, noted the "great facilities and atmosphere."
With an overall rating of 8.7/10 based on 40 reviews, the ryokan seems to provide a consistently enjoyable experience for its guests.
The staff’s professionalism and the property’s well-maintained amenities contribute to the positive feedback, making Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So a desirable accommodation choice.
House Rules and Policies
What’re the check-in and check-out times at Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So? Guests can check-in from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, but must notify the ryokan in advance.
Checkout is between 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
The ryokan has the following additional house rules and policies:
- Children 12 and above are charged as adults, while younger children are welcome.
- Pets aren’t allowed.
- Smoking is prohibited on the premises.
- Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by room type.
Late arrivals after 7:00 PM will incur a JPY 1,000 surcharge and won’t be served dinner.
Special requests for dietary restrictions and other needs can be accommodated.
Late Arrival and Special Requests
For late arrivals after the standard check-in hours, Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So charges a JPY 1,000 surcharge.
Plus, dinner isn’t served for guests arriving after 7:00 PM.
The ryokan is happy to accommodate special requests, such as dietary restrictions or other needs. Guests are encouraged to notify the staff in advance to ensure a seamless experience.
The ryokan’s convenient location near popular landmarks in Shimojo mura, including Komagane, Nakatsugawa, Iida, Achi, and Ena, makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area.
Nearby Attractions
Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So is conveniently located near several popular landmarks in the Shimojo mura region.
Guests can easily explore attractions like:
- Komagane, a scenic mountain town with hiking trails and ski resorts.
- Nakatsugawa, known for its historic buildings and traditional crafts.
- Iida, a charming city with a well-preserved old town and cultural festivals.
Plus, the ryokan sits just miles from the revered Achi Shrine and its Okumiya satellite location.
Visitors can also venture to Ichiban Shimizu, a picturesque natural spring, all while enjoying the scenic 65-mile drive from Nagoya Airport.
Ratings and Reviews
The ryokan enjoys an impressive 8.7/10 rating based on 40 guest reviews.
Guests consistently praise the friendly staff, who earned a near-perfect 9.8 rating.
The cleanliness, comfort, and value for money also receive high marks of 8.7, 8.8, and 8.5, respectively.
Reviewers highlight the ryokan’s unique location and great facilities, describing it as having a "clean atmosphere" and "great atmosphere."
Room Features
Thoughtful attention to detail defines the accommodations at Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So.
Guests can expect the following room features:
- Air conditioning to maintain comfort in any season
- Shared bathroom facilities that are kept spotlessly clean
- Tatami flooring, bed linens, towels, and slippers for a traditional Japanese ambiance
These thoughtful touches create a serene and rejuvenating environment for visitors to fully enjoy the ryokan experience.
Whether relaxing after a day of sightseeing or preparing for the next adventure, guests can count on a comfortable and well-appointed stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ryokan Located Near Any Train Stations?
The ryokan is not located near any train stations. It’s situated in a rural area, about 65 miles from the nearest airport in Nagoya. Guests would likely need to arrange transportation to reach the ryokan.
What Is the Dress Code or Attire Expected?
The dress code is casual and comfortable. Guests typically wear traditional Japanese yukata robes provided by the ryokan or their own relaxed attire. There’s no formal dress requirement, allowing for a laid-back and authentic inn experience.
Are There Any Restrictions on Access to the Public Bath?
The public bath is generally open to all guests, but there may be some restrictions. It’s best to inquire at the front desk about any specific rules or guidelines for accessing the public bath.
Does the Ryokan Offer Any Cultural Experiences or Activities?
The ryokan offers guests cultural activities like hiking and fishing nearby. It also has a public bath and BBQ facilities, providing opportunities to experience traditional Japanese leisure and relaxation during the stay.
Is There a Minimum Stay Requirement?
There’s no minimum stay requirement at this ryokan. Guests can book a single night’s stay or longer, depending on their preferences and travel plans.
The Sum Up
The Oogute Kohan Shirasagi So is a charming ryokan nestled in the serene landscapes of Shimojo mura, Nagano. With its comfortable accommodations, wide range of amenities, and stunning natural surroundings, this ryokan offers an authentic Japanese hospitality experience. Whether traveling solo or with family, guests can expect a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life at this highly-rated and conveniently located hotel.