This mountain retreat in Ina, Nagano left me with mixed feelings. The basics are covered – functioning WiFi, an in-house restaurant, and proximity to ski slopes – but the overall experience falls short of remarkable. The dated interiors and mediocre 5.9 rating reflect what you get: a no-frills base camp rather than a luxury stay.
On the bright side, accommodation options range from solo crash pads to spacious cottages, and the surrounding alpine scenery is genuinely spectacular. While the furnishings won’t win any design awards, and some rooms could use a refresh, this hotel works well for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts, families needing extra space, or groups planning to spend most of their time exploring rather than lounging indoors. Consider it a practical launchpad for adventures in the Japanese Alps rather than a destination in itself.
This exceptional hotel appears in the 4 best hotels in Ina.
Good To Know
- Aiwa No Mori Hotel is located in Ina, Nagano, Japan, approximately 10-31 miles from various attractions like Takato Joshi Park and Matsumoto Airport.
- The hotel offers different room types, including single rooms, twin rooms, and traditional Japanese-style rooms, as well as cottages with amenities like air conditioning and free WiFi.
- The on-site restaurant serves Asian cuisine for breakfast and dinner, providing a convenient dining option for guests.
- The hotel has a 5.9 out of 10 rating based on 22 reviews, with ratings for staff, facilities, cleanliness, and value for money.
- Guests can access the hotel by car via winding mountain roads, and it is approximately 20 miles from the nearest train station, Kamisuwa Station.
Hotel Overview
The Aiwa no Mori Hotel is located in Nishiminowa 3870-5, Ina, Nagano, Japan.
It’s situated about 10 miles from Takato Joshi Park, 19 miles from Canora Hall, 20 miles from Kamisuwa Station, 21 miles from Lake Suwa, and 31 miles from Matsumoto Airport.
The hotel has a 5.9 rating, which is considered "okay" or "fair" based on 22 reviews.
While the hotel offers a range of room types, from single rooms to large cottages, the overall amenities and services are relatively basic, including free WiFi, an on-site restaurant, and nearby skiing opportunities.
Accommodation Options
Aiwa no Mori Hotel offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different travelers’ needs.
The hotel features single rooms with one twin bed, twin rooms with two twin beds and a sofa bed, and traditional Japanese-style rooms with either four or eight futon beds.
Guests looking for more space can choose from standard, superior, or large cottages, all of which have eight to ten futon beds.
Amenities across the room types include air conditioning, free WiFi, desks, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles.
Select rooms also offer kitchenettes with a fridge, microwave, and stovetop.
With a range of options, the hotel caters to solo travelers, families, and groups seeking a comfortable stay in the Ina region.
Amenity Highlights
Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s range of on-site amenities.
The Aiwa no Mori Hotel offers free parking and non-smoking rooms. Visitors can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant, which serves Asian cuisine for breakfast and dinner.
The hotel also features a garden, providing a peaceful outdoor space. For those seeking winter activities, nearby skiing is available.
However, the hotel doesn’t offer any other recreational facilities or services. The amenities focus on the basics, providing a functional stay.
Dining and Cuisine
Along With the hotel’s range of on-site amenities, the Aiwa no Mori Hotel boasts an on-site restaurant that serves Asian cuisine for both breakfast and dinner.
The restaurant offers a variety of Asian dishes, catering to the diverse tastes of the hotel’s guests. Breakfast is served from 7 AM to 9 AM, while dinner is available from 6 PM to 8 PM.
The restaurant’s menu features local specialties and seasonal ingredients, providing guests with an authentic culinary experience.
Whether you’re starting your day or winding down in the evening, the on-site restaurant is a convenient and delicious dining option for Aiwa no Mori Hotel guests.
Nearby Attractions
Within a short distance from the Aiwa no Mori Hotel, visitors can explore a variety of natural and cultural attractions.
Takato Joshi Park, just 10 miles away, offers picturesque scenery and hiking trails. The historic Canora Hall, 19 miles distant, showcases traditional Japanese architecture.
Kamisuwa Station, 20 miles from the hotel, provides access to the scenic Lake Suwa, a popular destination for water sports and relaxation.
Matsumoto Airport, 31 miles away, serves as a convenient gateway for those arriving from further afield.
Whether seeking natural beauty, cultural experiences, or easy transportation, the Aiwa no Mori Hotel’s location provides ample opportunities for guests to discover the region’s highlights.
Guest Policies
The hotel has clear policies regarding guest check-in, checkout, and other important details.
Guests can check-in from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with a valid photo ID and credit card required. Checkout is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Children of all ages are welcome, but those 4 and older are charged as adults. Cribs and extra beds aren’t available.
Pets aren’t permitted. The hotel accepts cash payments only.
These policies aim to ensure a smooth and comfortable stay for all guests.
Review Insights
Based on the 22 guest reviews, the Aiwa no Mori Hotel received a mixed overall rating of 5.9 out of 10. While the staff received a decent score of 7.5, the hotel’s facilities, cleanliness, and comfort were rated as just "okay" by guests. Location and free WiFi fared slightly better, scoring 6.8 and 6.7 respectively. However, the hotel’s value for money was viewed as subpar at 6.1. The reviews suggest the hotel provides basic amenities, but falls short of exceeding guest expectations.
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Staff | 7.5 |
| Facilities | 6.1 |
| Cleanliness | 6.4 |
| Comfort | 6.4 |
Getting There
Travelers can reach the Aiwa no Mori Hotel by various means of transportation.
The hotel is located about 10 miles from Takato Joshi Park and 19 miles from Canora Hall. Those driving can take the winding mountain roads to the hotel, which offers free parking on-site.
Visitors can also reach the hotel by train, as it’s situated 20 miles from Kamisuwa Station. Plus, the nearest airport is Matsumoto Airport, which is approximately 31 miles away.
Regardless of the mode of transportation, the hotel’s remote location means visitors should plan their journey in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Swimming Pool or Spa at the Hotel?
There is no mention of a swimming pool or spa amenities at this hotel. The available amenities focus on basic accommodations, dining, and nearby skiing activities rather than recreational facilities like pools or spas.
Do the Rooms Have Safes or Security Boxes?
The rooms do not have safes or security boxes. According to the accommodation details, the amenities provided in the rooms are limited to basic features like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and kitchenettes in some rooms, but no in-room safes are mentioned.
Are There Any Special Discounts or Promotions Offered?
The hotel doesn’t seem to offer any special discounts or promotions based on the information provided. Guests should check the hotel’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any current deals or offers.
Can the Hotel Arrange Airport Transfers or Transportation?
The hotel doesn’t offer airport transfers or transportation services. Guests will need to arrange their own transportation to and from the hotel, which is located about 31 miles from the nearest airport.
Is There a Business Center or Meeting Facilities Available?
The hotel does not have a dedicated business center or meeting facilities. Guests looking to host events or conduct business would need to make alternative arrangements, as the hotel primarily focuses on providing accommodation and leisure amenities.
The Sum Up
The Aiwa no Mori Hotel provides a serene retreat amidst Nagano’s natural beauty, though its basic amenities may not suit all travelers. Its proximity to local attractions and on-site dining options make it a practical choice for those seeking a tranquil escape. While not the highest-rated, it offers a well-rounded stay looking to explore the stunning Nagano landscape.