Traditional Japanese inns called ryokans dominate the lodging scene in central Japan’s Kiso region. After exploring dozens of options, several standouts deserve special attention. The outstanding Nukumorino-yado Komanoyu earns its high ratings with exceptional local cuisine and relaxing hot spring baths. For mountain views and peaceful surroundings, Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari in Kaida Kogen hits all the right notes. Two practical favorites include Kisoji No Yado Iwaya (great for airport access) and Kiso Mikawaya (perfect for hiking the historic Nakasendo trail).
Let’s look at the best places to stay in Kiso.
Good To Know
- Nukumorino-yado Komanoyu is a renowned ryokan in Kiso, rated 8.9 from 292 reviews, offering various accommodation options and praised for its Kaiseki meals.
- Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari, located in the scenic Kaida Kogen region, provides traditional Japanese accommodations with private bathrooms, open-air baths, and ski-to-door access.
- Kisoji No Yado Iwaya is a highly-rated ryokan near Matsumoto Airport, with a focus on quality meals, particularly the Keiseki dinner, and a rejuvenating onsen experience.
- Kiso Mikawaya is a traditional Japanese inn with convenient Nakasendo trail access, praised for its cleanliness, delicious cuisine, and fantastic onsen bath.
- Onyado Tsutaya is a 3-star ryokan in Kiso, Nagano, offering free private parking, shuttle service, and various room types, with high praise for its staff and cleanliness.
Nukumorino-yado Komanoyu
Nestled in the heart of Kiso, Nukumorino-yado Komanoyu is a renowned ryokan that captivates guests with its serene setting and exceptional hospitality.
Boasting an impressive 8.9 rating from 292 reviews, this ryokan offers a variety of accommodation options, from standard Japanese-style rooms to superior rooms and economy options.
Guests rave about the delectable breakfast and dinner, with the Kaiseki meal receiving high praise.
The ryokan’s onsen facilities, including public and private baths, are a highlight, and guests can enjoy activities like star-gazing tours on clear nights.
With its attentive staff, well-appointed amenities, and stunning natural surroundings, Nukumorino-yado Komanoyu is an exceptional choice for those seeking a tranquil and authentic Japanese experience in Kiso.
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Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari
Located in the scenic Kaida Kogen region of Kiso, Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari is a highly acclaimed ryokan that captivates guests with its stunning natural surroundings and exceptional hospitality.
Boasting an impressive 9.3/10 guest rating, this ryokan offers a range of traditional Japanese accommodations, including rooms with private bathrooms, open-air baths, and saunas.
Guests can enjoy the property’s abundant amenities, such as ski-to-door access, free bikes, and a rejuvenating onsen experience.
The staff’s attentive service, the delectable Asian breakfast, and the serene mountain views further contribute to the ryokan’s exceptional value.
Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or an immersive cultural experience, Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari is an outstanding choice for travelers exploring the Kiso region.
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Kisoji No Yado Iwaya
Kisoji no Yado Iwaya stands out as another exceptional ryokan option in Kiso’s scenic Kaida Kogen region. This highly-rated traditional inn boasts a fantastic 8.9/10 score based on 173 reviews.
Located just 48 km from Matsumoto Airport, it’s conveniently close to the station and nearby restaurants. Guests rave about the quality of the meals, especially the Keiseki dinner, as well as the staff’s kindness and the comfortable, beautifully-decorated rooms.
The on-site onsen hot spring is also a highlight, described as invigorating and relaxing. With facilities like free parking, WiFi, and family rooms, Kisoji no Yado Iwaya caters well to all travelers seeking an authentic Japanese ryokan experience in the heart of the picturesque Kiso Valley.
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Kiso Mikawaya
Kiso Mikawaya offers travelers an exceptional ryokan experience in the heart of Nagano’s scenic Kiso region.
This traditional Japanese inn boasts an impressive 8.4 rating from 490 reviews, with guests praising its convenient Nakasendo trail access, spotless cleanliness, and helpful staff.
The modern accommodations, delectable cuisine, and fantastic onsen bath further enhance the stay.
Amenities include free parking, Wi-Fi, and a varied breakfast buffet.
Additional services like laundry and luggage storage are available.
Quiet hours and strict check-in/out times ensure a peaceful atmosphere.
Conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and attractions, Kiso Mikawaya provides excellent value for couples and families exploring the Kiso Valley.
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Onyado Tsutaya
Onyado Tsutaya, a 3-star ryokan, offers travelers an excellent lodging option in Kiso, Nagano. Rated 8.8 by guests, the ryokan is ideally located for exploring the Kiso-Fukushima area.
It provides free private parking and shuttle service to/from the station. Guests can choose from various room types, including Economy Japanese-Style, Standard, Superior, and Deluxe, with shared or private bathrooms.
Amenities include free WiFi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, and air conditioning. The ryokan boasts facilities like public baths, an open-air bath, hot spring bath, ski storage, coffee shop, bar, and lounge.
While the staff and cleanliness receive high praise, the breakfast and dinner options have received mixed feedback. Overall, Onyado Tsutaya offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers exploring the Kiso region.
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Morino Hotel
One of the well-regarded ryokans in the Kiso region, Morino Hotel offers travelers a comfortable and convenient lodging option.
This 7.6-rated hotel features a variety of room types, including Japanese-style and standard twin accommodations. Guests can enjoy amenities like air conditioning, free parking, and Wi-Fi, as well as in-room conveniences like TVs, refrigerators, and private bathrooms.
The hotel offers a public bath and sauna, and its garden setting provides a peaceful countryside experience. Reviews highlight the delicious Japanese-style meals, friendly staff, and clean facilities.
With a check-in from 3-6 PM and check-out by 10 AM, the hotel caters to guests’ needs. Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited on the premises.
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Komao Ryokan : A Tranquil Escape
Tucked away in the serene countryside of Kiso, Komao Ryokan offers travelers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This traditional Japanese ryokan boasts beautiful mountain, river, and garden views, providing a peaceful ambiance. Accommodations range from Japanese-style quadruple rooms to family rooms with shared bathrooms, all equipped with air conditioning and flat-screen TVs.
Guests can enjoy the free private parking, public bath, and well-maintained garden. The ryokan also offers laundry services and meeting facilities for an additional charge.
With a rating of 7.9/10 and positive reviews praising the spacious rooms, excellent food, and kind staff, Komao Ryokan is a great choice for those seeking a relaxing stay in the Kiso region.
Lodge Mikasa
Lodge Mikasa is a condo hotel located in Nagano, Kiso, Japan.
It’s rated 7.7 out of 10 based on 26 reviews.
With a size of 194 sq ft, the hotel offers free WiFi, parking, and a shared bathroom with a bathtub and shower.
Guests can enjoy kitchen amenities like a dryer, electric kettle, washing machine, microwave, and refrigerator.
The hotel also features a flat-screen TV and mountain views.
While children of all ages are welcome, the hotel doesn’t provide cribs or extra beds.
Dinner and breakfast are available for additional fees.
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The Sum Up
The Kiso area offers a range of exceptional hotels, from traditional ryokans to modern lodges. Guests can enjoy the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic Japanese hospitality. Whether seeking a tranquil escape or a comfortable base for exploring, these top-rated accommodations provide an ideal option for travelers seeking the best experiences in Kiso.