In our review of this humble ryokan, we found a no-frills Japanese inn that’s big on charm but light on luxury. Tucked away in Minakami’s geothermal wonderland, it’s a cozy base for soaking in hot springs and hitting the slopes.
The rooms are simple affairs with shared bathrooms, which might not suit everyone’s taste. And if you’re expecting high-end amenities, you might want to look elsewhere.
But for budget-conscious travelers who want an authentic experience, this place is a gem. The friendly staff and spotless rooms more than make up for any lack of bells and whistles. Plus, with free parking and Wi-Fi, you’ll have more yen in your pocket for steaming bowls of ramen after a day on the mountain.
This ryokan is perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts who don’t mind trading a bit of comfort for a genuine slice of Japanese life. It’s especially suited for ski bums and hot spring aficionados looking to maximize their time on the slopes or in the soothing waters without breaking the bank.
This authentic Japanese ryokan appears in our top 2 ryokan picks in Sarugakyo Onsen, Minakami.
Good To Know
- Nitaya is a 1-star ryokan located in Minakami, Gunma, Japan, situated in a geothermal area with nearby hot springs.
- The ryokan offers Japanese-style economy and standard rooms with shared bathrooms, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs.
- Guests can enjoy on-site hot spring baths, free private parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi during their stay.
- Nitaya is conveniently located near popular ski resorts, scenic natural attractions, and Matsumoto Airport.
- The ryokan has received positive guest feedback for its friendly staff, clean facilities, and good value for money.
General Information
Nitaya is a 1-star ryokan located in Minakami, Gunma, Japan.
It’s situated 19 km from Naeba Ski Resort, 41 km from Kawaba Ski Resort, 42 km from Ishidan-gai Steps, and 154 km from Matsumoto Airport.
The ryokan is located in a geothermal area with nearby hot springs.
Nitaya offers two room types: a Japanese-style economy room with a shared bathroom and a Japanese-style standard room with a shared bathroom and private toilet.
Amenities include air conditioning, seating area, flat-screen TV, bed linen, and towels.
Guests can enjoy free private parking and Wi-Fi during their stay.
Accommodation Details
The ryokan offers two room types to accommodate guests – a Japanese-style economy room with a shared bathroom, as well as a Japanese-style standard room with a shared bathroom and private toilet.
The economy room comes with a single futon bed, while the standard room has four futon beds.
All rooms feature air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, and provide bed linen and towels.
Free private parking and WiFi are available for guests.
Facility Highlights
What’re some of the popular facilities offered at Nitaya? The ryokan features a range of amenities to enhance guests’ stay.
Visitors can enjoy the free private parking and complimentary WiFi access. The highlight is the on-site hot spring bath and open-air bath, allowing guests to unwind in the geothermal waters.
Other notable facilities include:
- Free parking
- Free WiFi
- Hot spring bath
- Open-air bath
- Family rooms
Plus, the ryokan provides daily housekeeping, a vending machine, and luggage storage for added convenience.
Safety features include smoke alarms and a security alarm, ensuring a secure environment for all guests.
Service Offerings
Along With its well-appointed facilities, Nitaya offers a range of services to cater to guests’ needs.
The ryokan provides daily housekeeping to keep rooms clean and tidy. Guests can take advantage of the on-site luggage storage, making it easy to explore the area without carrying heavy bags.
For added convenience, a vending machine is available, offering snacks and refreshments.
Nitaya also prioritizes safety, with smoke alarms and a security alarm installed throughout the property.
Whether it’s the attentive housekeeping or the secure environment, Nitaya ensures a comfortable and worry-free stay for all its visitors.
Guest Feedback
Guests have, on the whole, provided positive feedback on their experiences at Nitaya.
Key highlights from guest reviews include:
The staff received excellent ratings, with guests praising their friendly and attentive service.
The cleanliness of the ryokan was well-received, with above-average scores.
While the facilities were deemed satisfactory, some guests felt they could be upgraded or modernized.
Comfort levels were generally good, though a few reviewers noted room sizes could be larger.
Guests were pleased with the value for money, given Nitaya’s reasonable rates and amenities.
House Rules
Checking in at Nitaya requires guests to arrive between 15:00 and 18:00, with advance notice needed for late arrivals. Checkout is by 10:00. Children are not allowed, and the ryokan does not provide cots or extra beds. Pets are also prohibited. Quiet hours are observed from 15:00 to 10:00.
| Policies | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 15:00 to 18:00 |
| Check-out | Until 10:00 |
| Children | Not allowed |
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary, and guests should contact the property for specifics. Exceeding the maximum occupancy will result in additional charges.
Location and Accessibility
The ryokan Nitaya is situated 19 km from Naeba Ski Resort, 41 km from Kawaba Ski Resort, and 42 km from the popular Ishidan-gai Steps.
Located in the geothermal area of Minakami, Gunma, the 1-star ryokan is approximately 154 km from Matsumoto Airport.
Guests can enjoy the nearby natural hot springs.
The ryokan’s location offers:
- Proximity to popular ski resorts
- Easy access to scenic natural attractions
- Immersion in a geothermal landscape
- Tranquil surroundings for relaxation
- Convenient access from the nearest airport.
Getting There
Reaching the ryokan Nitaya involves a scenic drive through the mountainous region of Gunma. Travelers have several options to access the ryokan:
| Transportation | Duration | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| From Naeba Ski Resort | 30 minutes | 19 km |
| From Kawaba Ski Resort | 1 hour | 41 km |
| From Ishidan-gai Steps | 1 hour | 42 km |
| From Matsumoto Airport | 2.5 hours | 154 km |
The ryokan is situated in a geothermal area, offering easy access to nearby hot springs. Guests can enjoy the scenic drive and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains before arriving at the cozy, traditional accommodations of Nitaya.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Breakfast Included in the Room Rate?
Breakfast is not included in the room rate at this property. The ryokan’s accommodation details and policies do not mention breakfast being provided. Guests would need to inquire about breakfast availability and cost separately.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
The property doesn’t offer any explicitly advertised discounts or packages. However, guests should check with the ryokan directly to inquire about any special offers or deals that may be available during their stay.
What Types of Japanese Cuisine Are Served at the Ryokan?
The ryokan doesn’t have its own restaurant, but it’s located in a geothermal area with nearby hot springs, so guests can likely enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine like onsen ryori (hot spring cuisine) at local establishments.
Can Guests Use the Hot Spring Facilities for Free?
Guests can use the hot spring facilities for free at this ryokan. The ryokan features a hot spring bath and open-air bath that are available for all guests to enjoy as part of their stay.
Are There Any Cultural Activities or Experiences Offered at the Ryokan?
The ryokan doesn’t offer any cultural activities or experiences on-site. However, guests can explore the nearby geothermal area and hot springs, which are popular local attractions providing an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese bathing culture.
The Sum Up
Nitaya offers a tranquil escape in the heart of Japan’s Gunma Prefecture. With its range of accommodation, rejuvenating hot springs, and convenient facilities, the ryokan caters to various travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience. Guests can explore the surrounding natural wonders and enjoy the warm hospitality, making Nitaya an ideal base to take in the serene beauty of the Japanese countryside.