My favorite lodgings in Shibu Onsen blend traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. Sakaeya, scoring an impressive 9.6/10 from guests, delivers authentic ryokan charm with impeccable service. I love Senjukaku for its stunning open-air baths and peaceful mountain views. Hotarutei Villas offers a luxurious escape while maintaining traditional elements. Both Suminoyu and Daymaruya Ryokan provide the warm, family-style welcome that makes Japanese inns special. Kaneki Hotel stands out by giving guests access to multiple public hot springs – a real bonus in this historic onsen town. All these stays put you close to the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park. Let’s check out the best places to stay in detail.
Good To Know
- Senjukaku is a highly rated traditional ryokan in Shibu Onsen, offering an exceptional location within a 15-minute drive from the Snow Monkey Park.
- Suminoyu Ryokan in Shibu Onsen is known for its exceptional hospitality and outdoor onsens, with a 9.4/10 rating from guests.
- Senshinkan Matsuya, located in the Shibu hot-spring area, provides a traditional ryokan experience and is recognized as one of the Best Inns in Japan.
- Hotarutei Villas, a newly opened luxury private villa complex in Yamanouchi, offers modern amenities and a natural hot spring outdoor bath with a 10/10 rating.
- Sakaeya, located in Shibu Onsen, is highly rated for its exceptional multi-course dining and convenient 5-minute drive from Yudanaka Train Station.
Yudanaka Onsen Yamazakiya
Yudanaka Onsen Yamazakiya is a 3-star ryokan nestled in the heart of the Hirao region, just 1.8 miles from the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park.
This traditional Japanese-style accommodation offers a range of room options, all featuring shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy amenities like free parking, WiFi, hot spring baths, and ski storage.
With a 9.6/10 rating for location, the ryokan’s proximity to popular attractions like Ryuoo Ski Park and Suzaka Zoo makes it an ideal base for exploring the Nagano prefecture.
Reviews praise the attentive hosts, clean and spacious rooms, and delightful traditional breakfast.
Travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience in a picturesque setting will find Yudanaka Onsen Yamazakiya a welcoming and comfortable choice.
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Sakaeya
Nestled in the heart of Shibu Onsen, Sakaeya offers guests an authentic Japanese ryokan experience. Rated 9.4/10 for its prime location, the inn is just a 5-minute drive from Yudanaka Train Station with shuttle services available.
Guests can easily access the nearby Snow Monkey Park and public onsens within a 10-minute drive.
Sakaeya’s accommodations feature traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding, along with amenities like satellite TV and shared bathrooms.
Travelers can pamper themselves in the inn’s indoor/outdoor hot-spring baths.
Sakaeya also impresses with its exceptional service, high cleanliness, and exceptional multi-course dining, earning it an overall rating of 9.6/10 from 323 reviews.
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Senjukaku
Situated in the heart of Shibu Onsen, Senjukaku is a traditional Japanese ryokan that offers guests an authentic and historic experience.
Located just a 15-minute drive from the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, this highly-rated property boasts an excellent 9.6/10 location score.
Senjukaku’s accommodations include Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, as well as family rooms and suites with open-air baths.
Guests can enjoy the onsite open-air hot spring baths, heated indoor pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
The exceptional dining experience features organic vegetables and local beef, with vegetarian options available.
Praised for its cleanliness, comfort, and attentive staff, Senjukaku provides a peaceful and immersive ryokan stay in the heart of Yamanouchi.
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Suminoyu
Located in the heart of the historic Shibu Onsen district, Suminoyu is a traditional Japanese ryokan that offers guests an immersive experience in the region’s thermal waters and rich cultural heritage.
This 9.4/10 rated ryokan features exceptional hospitality, with staff scoring 9.9/10 for politeness and helpfulness. Guests praise the traditional meals, relaxing atmosphere, and the outdoor onsen.
The accommodation options include Japanese-style rooms with tatami floors and futon bedding, as well as superior and deluxe double rooms. Amenities include air conditioning, TVs, and free Wi-Fi in the lobby.
Suminoyu also provides a free shuttle service to the nearby Snow Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, making it an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of Yamanouchi.
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Daymaruya Ryokan
The Daymaruya Ryokan stands in Yamanouchi, a 15-minute drive from the renowned Snow Monkey Park and a 25-minute drive from the Shiga Kogen Ski Resort.
This traditional Japanese inn boasts a 9.4/10 rating for its excellent location, based on 326 reviews. Guests can choose from Japanese-style rooms with shared bathrooms or standard family rooms, all featuring tatami flooring, futon bedding, and amenities like TVs, fridges, and yukata robes.
The ryokan offers free WiFi, parking, hot spring baths, and breakfast service. Reviewers praise the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, exceptional hospitality, and delicious breakfast.
The inn provides a free shuttle from the Yudanaka Train Station and adheres to COVID-19 safety measures.
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Minshuku Miyama
Minshuku Miyama, a 2-star ryokan, sits in Hirao, Yamanouchi, Nagano, just 1.9 miles from the famed Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Boasting an excellent 9.1 rating for its location, the property features mountain views, an open-air bath, and is situated in a geothermal area with numerous hot springs.
Guests rave about the friendly staff, traditional atmosphere, and delectable kaiseki dinners. The ryokan’s onsen is a major draw, especially for those with tattoos.
Amenities include free private parking, non-smoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, and shared bathroom facilities.
While check-in is from 2 PM to 8 PM, quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 8 AM.
Pets aren’t allowed, but the owners provide transportation assistance to local bus stops, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like Ryuoo Ski Park and Suzaka Zoo.
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Shibu Onsen Koishiya Ryokan
Nestled within the historic Shibu Onsen district, Shibu Onsen Koishiya Ryokan offers guests a traditional ryokan experience.
The ryokan’s prime location, rated 9.5/10, allows easy access to the area’s nine public baths. Accommodation options range from private rooms to dormitory-style quarters, all equipped with air conditioning and shared bathrooms.
Guests can enjoy free use of the onsen facilities and a shuttle service to Yudanaka Station. Reviewers praise the ryokan’s friendly staff and the comfortable traditional bedding.
While tattoos may face restrictions in the public baths, the ryokan welcomes children aged 6 and above.
With an overall rating of 8.8/10, Shibu Onsen Koishiya Ryokan provides an authentic Japanese experience in a picturesque setting.
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Shibu Hotel
Located in the historic Shibu Onsen district, Shibu Hotel offers guests an authentic Japanese ryokan experience with its traditional accommodations and onsen facilities.
Boasting a 9.3 "Wonderful" rating from 120 reviews, the hotel provides free shuttle service to nearby attractions like the Snow Monkey Park.
Guests can choose from various room types, including Japanese-style rooms with futon bedding and tatami floors.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, hot spring baths, and dining featuring local Shinshu beef.
The hotel adheres to COVID-19 guidelines, and guests with visible tattoos may have restricted access to public bathing areas.
Shibu Hotel’s excellent location, attentive staff, and immersive cultural experience make it a top pick for travelers seeking a ryokan stay in Shibu Onsen.
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Onyado Hishiya Torazo
Onyado Hishiya Torazo is a traditional ryokan nestled in the renowned Shibu hot-spring area of Nagano.
This highly-rated accommodation features Japanese-style rooms with amenities like air conditioning, TVs, and green tea sets. Guests can enjoy the indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, as well as the shared lounge with free Wi-Fi.
The ryokan offers a fabulous Japanese breakfast for 1800 Yen, and a multi-course dinner is available for pre-order. Visitors praise the friendly hosts, the beautiful onsen facilities, and the warm welcome with personal touches.
While the upper floors are only accessible by stairs, the ryokan’s ski-to-door access and proximity to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shiga Highlands ski slopes make it an excellent choice for those seeking a traditional Japanese experience.
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Kotobuki
Although situated just 1.2 miles from the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park, Kotobuki Ryokan offers guests a serene Japanese experience.
Rated 8.8 overall, this traditional ryokan features tatami-floored rooms and access to hot spring baths. Guests praise the property’s cleanliness, comfort, and friendly staff.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and ski storage. The on-site restaurant serves dinner, but reservations are required.
Check-in is from 3 PM to 6 PM, and check-out is by 10 AM. Kotobuki welcomes children of all ages but doesn’t allow pets or smoking. For larger groups, different policies may apply.
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Ichinoyu Katei
The Ichinoyu Katei ryokan offers guests a truly authentic Japanese experience in the heart of Shibu Onsen.
Located just 2.6 km from the Jigokudani Monkey Park, this highly-rated ryokan (8.9/10) provides easy access to the area’s geothermal hot springs.
Guests can enjoy traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, as well as on-site amenities like a hot spring bath, open-air bath, and public bath.
Dining is a highlight, with Asian breakfast and authentic Japanese dinners available.
Reviewers praise the ryokan’s friendly staff, cleanliness, and the overall ryokan experience.
However, note that children and pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited.
Advance reservations are required for both breakfast and dinner.
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Ikariya Ryokan
Situated just 1.6 miles from the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park, Ikariya Ryokan offers guests a peaceful retreat in the heart of Shibu Onsen.
This highly-rated ryokan boasts an excellent 9.5/10 location score, with easy access to nearby ski resorts and attractions. Guests can enjoy on-site amenities like a traditional hot spring bath, a restaurant serving Nepalese cuisine, and free WiFi.
The spacious, air-conditioned rooms feature modern conveniences like coffee machines and flat-screen TVs. Ikariya Ryokan’s staff are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to an overall guest experience rating of 8.6/10.
However, guests with tattoos may face restrictions in the public bathing areas. With its convenient location and traditional Japanese hospitality, Ikariya Ryokan is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxing stay in Shibu Onsen.
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Assuming
Assuming guests have reviewed the property’s location and amenities, they can then consider the house rules and policies when booking their stay at Andaikan.
The ryokan offers a flexible check-in between 3 PM and 7 PM, and a prompt check-out by 10 AM.
While smoking is prohibited on the premises, children of all ages are welcome, though additional fees may apply for older kids.
Guests should also note the seasonal heating fee from December to March.
Andaikan’s cancellation policy varies by accommodation type, so travelers should carefully review the terms when making their reservation.
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Kaneki Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Shibu Onsen, Kaneki Hotel offers visitors a quintessential ryokan experience. This highly-rated property boasts an excellent 8.6 score from 52 reviews, praising its comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and superb onsen facilities.
Guests enjoy exclusive access to nine public onsens, as well as a private onsen option. The hotel’s Japanese-style quadruple rooms provide spacious accommodations for up to four guests.
Situated just 1.5 miles from the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park, Kaneki Hotel provides easy access to the area’s top attractions.
While children aren’t allowed, the ryokan’s amenities, including free Wi-Fi and parking, make it an ideal choice for couples and adult travelers seeking an authentic Japanese getaway.
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Hatsunoyu
Hatsunoyu is a traditional ryokan nestled in the heart of the Shibu Onsen hot spring district.
Located 1.7 miles from the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, this ryokan offers easy access to popular attractions.
Guests can enjoy free private parking, free WiFi, and a rejuvenating hot spring bath.
The Japanese-style rooms feature tatami flooring, air conditioning, and shared bathrooms.
Hatsunoyu’s exceptional hospitality, delicious home-cooked meals, and convenient shuttle service earn it an 8.6/10 rating from guests.
With a location score of 9.4/10 and a near-perfect 9.8/10 for couples, Hatsunoyu is an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic Japanese ryokan experience in the Nagano region.
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Hotarutei Villas
The Hotarutei Villas are a newly opened luxury private villa complex in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture.
Offering a tranquil retreat, the villas feature two bedrooms, a living room, an open terrace, and a natural hot spring outdoor bath. Guests can enjoy modern amenities like free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette.
The on-site restaurant, Hotarutei, serves seasonal local cuisine for breakfast and dinner.
Conveniently located, the villas are just 3.8 km from the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park and 14 km from Ryuoo Ski Park.
With exceptional reviews and a 10/10 rating, the Hotarutei Villas promise a high-quality, private onsen experience in the heart of the Japanese Alps.
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Senshinkan Matsuya
Senshinkan Matsuya is a Japanese-style ryokan (traditional inn) located within the renowned Shibu hot-spring area in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture.
This non-smoking accommodation offers guests a traditional experience, with air-conditioned rooms featuring tatami flooring and futon bedding. Each room includes amenities like a TV, safety deposit box, and fridge, and some have free Wi-Fi.
Guests can enjoy shared bathrooms and toilets, free parking, hot spring baths, and a dining room serving traditional multi-course meals.
Senshinkan Matsuya received exceptional ratings for its staff, facilities, cleanliness, comfort, and prime location just a 5-minute drive from Yudanaka Train Station.
The ryokan was recognized as one of the Best Inns in Japan by the TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award 2015.
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The Sum Up
Shibu Onsen in Yamanouchi offers an array of excellent hotels to suit various preferences. Whether visitors seek traditional ryokans like Yudanaka Onsen Yamazakiya or modern accommodations such as Kaneki Hotel, the town provides a diverse range of options. With amenities ranging from natural hot springs to scenic mountain views, Shibu Onsen caters to travelers seeking a rejuvenating and authentic Japanese experience.