Welcome to our review of this charming Japanese inn, tucked away in the snowy embrace of Nozawa Onsen. Just a snowball’s throw from the ski slopes, this cozy retreat offers a slice of authentic Japan with its tatami-matted rooms and steamy communal baths. The friendly faces behind the front desk and the spacious, well-designed rooms won’t disappoint, and your wallet will thank you too.
While you’re soaking up the culture, don’t miss a meal at the in-house restaurant – it’s like stepping into a Japanese painting.
Now, fair warning: parking can be as scarce as a geisha in New York, and if you’re not used to sleeping on futons, your back might protest a bit.
But for snow bunnies, culture vultures, and anyone looking to dip their toes into real Japanese hospitality without breaking the bank, this place is a perfect fit. It’s especially ideal for couples or small groups who want to be close to the slopes and don’t mind a short walk to local shops.
So pack your yukata and get ready for a memorable stay in this winter wonderland!
We included this ryokan in the top 26 ryokans in Nozawa Onsen.
Good To Know
Chitosekan is a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) located in Nozawa Onsen, Nagano, offering easy access to the nearby Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort.
The ryokan features a variety of accommodation options, including Japanese-style quadruple rooms and family rooms with shared baths, all with a focus on traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Guests can enjoy on-site shared hot-spring baths, as well as amenities like free Wi-Fi, ski equipment rental service, and a drying room.
Chitosekan’s Hiroma dining room serves authentic Japanese meals for breakfast and dinner, providing a cultural culinary experience for guests.
The ryokan has an excellent location rating of 9.7/10, with proximity to the Yu-Road escalator, public hot-spring baths, and the Hikage ski run.
Overview and Location
Chitosekan is situated in Nagano’s Nozawa Onsen, a picturesque mountain town renowned for its hot springs and ski resort.
Boasting an excellent location rating of 9.7/10 based on 30 reviews, the ryokan is just 750 meters from the Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort.
Guests can easily access the Yu-Road escalator to the ski area, public hot-spring baths, and the Hikage ski run, all within a 5-minute walk.
With its traditional Japanese aesthetic and convenient proximity to the slopes, Chitosekan offers an immersive experience for those seeking to fully embrace the winter wonderland of Nozawa Onsen.
Accommodation and Facilities
Guests at Chitosekan can choose from a variety of accommodation options, including Japanese-style quadruple rooms with either private or shared bathrooms, as well as family-oriented rooms with shared bath facilities.
These rooms feature traditional decor, tatami flooring, and sliding paper screens, along with modern amenities like LCD TVs and air conditioning.
Guests can also take advantage of the shared hot-spring bath on-site.
The property offers free Wi-Fi in the lobby, a ski equipment rental service, a drying room for wet gear, and non-smoking rooms.
Whether travelers are seeking a cozy retreat or a comfortable base for their ski adventure, Chitosekan’s accommodations cater to diverse needs.
Guest Experience and Reviews
Travelers consistently rate Chitosekan’s overall experience as fabulous, awarding it an impressive 8.8/10 score.
The staff earn an outstanding 9.7/10 rating for their friendly and helpful service. Guests praise the spacious, beautifully designed rooms with their traditional Japanese decor and amenities.
The accommodation’s cleanliness and comfort also earn high marks of 8.9/10 and 8.8/10 respectively. Visitors highlight the property’s excellent value for money, citing its convenient access to the ski runs and local shops.
Dining Options
The Hiroma dining room at Chitosekan serves traditional Japanese meals for both breakfast and dinner. Guests must reserve their meals at least one day in advance.
The set-menu breakfasts and dinners offer an authentic culinary experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the local cuisine. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast to fuel a day on the slopes or a delectable dinner to cap off the evening, the Hiroma dining room provides a delightful dining option for Chitosekan guests.
With its traditional Japanese ambiance, the dining room complements the ryokan’s overall cultural experience.
Check-in and Check-out
Chitosekan’s check-in and check-out times provide guests with a streamlined arrival and departure experience.
Guests can check in between 12:00 and 20:00, but they’ll need to provide advance notice. The check-out time is until 10:00, allowing ample time to pack up and depart.
Policies around cancellation and prepayment vary by accommodation type, so guests should review the details upon booking.
With a no-cash policy and acceptance of cards, the financial side of the stay is straightforward.
Cancellation and Prepayment
Cancellation and prepayment policies at Chitosekan vary by accommodation type, requiring guests to review the specifics when booking.
For some room types, payment may be required in full at the time of booking, while others allow for partial prepayment.
Cancellation policies are also room-specific, with some allowing free cancellation up to a certain number of days prior to arrival, while others may incur fees.
Guests should carefully check the terms and conditions to understand the financial commitments and flexibility associated with their reservation.
Paying close attention to these policies can help ensure a smooth and stress-free stay at Chitosekan.
Children and Pets
All ages are welcome at Chitosekan.
Children of all ages can stay at the property, but there are no extra beds or cots available.
Pets, however, aren’t allowed on the premises. This policy ensures a comfortable stay for all guests, without disruptions from young children or furry friends.
Visitors should keep this in mind when booking their accommodations. Those traveling with children will need to make their own arrangements for sleeping space, while guests with pets will need to make alternative arrangements during their stay at Chitosekan.
Parking and Payment
Parking at Chitosekan is available in nearby public lots, costing 1500 yen per night. As the hotel doesn’t have its own parking facilities, guests will need to find alternative options.
Payment at Chitosekan is accepted only by credit or debit card – cash isn’t accepted. This policy helps streamline the check-in and check-out process.
Guests should keep in mind that advance notice is required for late check-ins, typically after 8 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Outdoor Seating Available at the Hotel?
The information provided doesn’t mention any outdoor seating available at the hotel. It focuses on the accommodation types, room features, facilities, and dining options, without indicating the presence of any outdoor seating areas for guests.
What Are the Hotel’s Sustainability Initiatives?
The hotel hasn’t detailed any sustainability initiatives on its website. However, it’s common for traditional Japanese inns to focus on minimizing waste and preserving natural resources. They likely have some eco-friendly practices in place.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Wellness or Spa Services?
The hotel doesn’t seem to offer any dedicated wellness or spa services, but it does have a shared hot spring bath that guests can enjoy. The focus appears to be on providing a traditional Japanese accommodation experience.
Are There Any Family-Friendly Activities Nearby?
The hotel is within walking distance of the Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, which offers a range of family-friendly activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. There are also public hot spring baths nearby that are suitable for all ages.
Are There Discounts Available for Extended Stays?
Based on the information provided, there don’t appear to be any discounts mentioned for extended stays at Chitosekan. Guests would need to check directly with the hotel for any special offers or promotions related to longer bookings.
The Sum Up
Chitosekan offers an authentic Japanese experience in the picturesque Nozawa Onsen region. With its exceptional location, spacious rooms, and comfortable amenities, it’s the perfect base for winter adventurers. Theres some good traditional cuisine, relax in the shared hot-spring bath, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Nagano prefecture. Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder, or simply seeking a taste of Japanese culture, Chitosekan promises an unforgettable stay.