In our review, we found this cozy ryokan to be a gem near the slopes of Nozawa Onsen. Picture yourself soaking in Japanese hospitality, with friendly faces greeting you and tasty veggie meals warming your belly after a day on the snow.
The rooms are peaceful, and you’ll have all the modern perks like free WiFi and parking. Plus, it’s a quick 10-minute stroll to the ski area and a short drive to Lake Hokuryu.
Now, it’s not all perfect. Some folks might find the traditional futon beds a bit firm for their liking.
And if you’re looking for a wild nightlife scene, this quiet spot might not be your cup of tea. But for those seeking a genuine Japanese experience and a comfy base for outdoor adventures, this place hits the bullseye.
It’s ideal for nature lovers, ski buffs, and anyone wanting to dip their toes into authentic ryokan living without breaking the bank.
This ryokan earned its place in the top 26 ryokans in Nozawa Onsen.
Good To Know
- Hatoguruma Kawabata is a ryokan located in Nozawa Onsen, Nagano, offering free WiFi, parking, and skiing facilities.
- The ryokan has a high rating of 9.1/10 and is praised for its friendly staff, delicious vegetarian meals, and cozy atmosphere.
- Accommodations feature traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon bedding, providing a serene and immersive experience.
- The ryokan is conveniently located, just a 10-minute walk from the Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort and a 15-minute drive to Lake Hokuryu.
- Guests appreciate the ryokan’s excellent facilities, including a dedicated skiing area, vending machines, and luggage storage.
Property Overview
Hatoguruma Kawabata is a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in Toyosato 8922, Nozawa Onsen, Nagano, Japan.
It has a rating of 9.1 out of 10 based on 88 reviews, with guests praising its excellent 9.2/10 location score.
The property is a 10-minute walk from Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort and a 15-minute drive from Lake Hokuryu.
Offering traditional Japanese accommodations, the ryokan features amenities like free WiFi, free parking, skiing facilities, and family rooms.
Guests have highlighted the friendly staff, delicious vegetarian meals, and the homely, great value-for-money atmosphere of Hatoguruma Kawabata.
Guest Experience and Feedback
Guests have praised the excellent location of Hatoguruma Kawabata near restaurants and onsens.
Positive reviews highlighted the friendly and helpful staff, who earned a remarkable 9.8 rating. Guests also raved about the delicious vegetarian meals served for breakfast and dinner.
The accommodations, decorated in traditional Japanese style, were described as comfortable, creating a homely atmosphere and offering great value for money.
A guest from Australia noted the "great surprise with views of ski slopes and mountains," while an American visitor commented that "the food prepared by the innkeeper is incredible."
Facilities and Amenities
Guests at Hatoguruma Kawabata can enjoy a range of convenient facilities and amenities.
The ryokan offers free WiFi, rated 10/10 by guests, as well as free on-site parking.
Skiers will appreciate the dedicated skiing facilities and storage. Families can book comfortable family rooms, and all guests have access to vending machines for drinks.
Hatoguruma Kawabata also provides luggage storage and a safety deposit box for guest convenience.
The accommodations themselves feature traditional Japanese decor, with tatami floors and futon bedding, along with modern comforts like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and electric kettles.
Room Features
The ryokan’s Japanese-style accommodations transport guests into a serene, traditional ambiance. Rooms feature tatami-matted floors and futon bedding, creating a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Each room is equipped with essential amenities, including air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and an electric kettle for tea.
| Accommodation Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Flooring | Tatami mats |
| Bedding | Futon |
| Climate Control | Air conditioning |
| Entertainment | Flat-screen TV |
| Refreshment | Electric kettle |
These thoughtful details cater to guests’ comfort and enable them to fully enjoy the ryokan’s traditional charm.
Dining Options
The ryokan’s vegetarian meals are a particular highlight, showcasing fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
Guests praised the exceptional quality of the food, making it a recommended option for vegetarians.
Breakfast is served from 7:00 to 8:00 AM, while dinner is available until 7:00 PM, but requires a reservation.
The innkeeper’s culinary expertise shines through in the diverse and flavorful vegetarian dishes served at the ryokan.
From traditional Japanese fare to creative plant-based offerings, the dining experience is consistently praised by guests as a memorable aspect of their stay at Hatoguruma Kawabata.
Location and Access
Hatoguruma Kawabata’s prime location offers guests convenient access to the area’s top attractions. Just a 10-minute walk from the Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort and a 15-minute drive to Lake Hokuryu, the ryokan is ideally situated for outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy the following transportation options:
| Mode | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Walk to Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort | 10 minutes |
| Drive to Lake Hokuryu | 15 minutes |
| Drive to Nozawa Onsen Station | 15 minutes |
| Taxi to Iiyama Station | 30 minutes |
| Bus to Tokyo | 3 hours |
Whether seeking winter sports or scenic lake views, Hatoguruma Kawabata’s convenient location makes it easy for guests to explore the best of Nozawa Onsen.
Policies and Information
Guests can review Hatoguruma Kawabata’s check-in and check-out times, which are from 2:00 PM and until 10:00 AM, respectively.
The property’s cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type.
Children aged 4 years and above are charged as adults, and no cots or extra beds are available.
Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited.
Guests can only make cash payments, and the public baths, which aren’t hot springs, are open from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Key Highlights
Ideally located just a 10-minute walk from the Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, Hatoguruma Kawabata boasts a fantastic 9.2/10 score for its excellent location.
Guests rave about the property’s friendly and helpful staff, who earned a remarkable 9.8/10 rating.
The traditional Japanese ryokan also impresses with its delicious vegetarian meals, comfortable accommodations, and homely atmosphere.
With free WiFi, parking, skiing facilities, and luggage storage, Hatoguruma Kawabata offers great value for money.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy base for your ski holiday or a serene escape, this charming inn in Nozawa Onsen is certainly worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Fitness Facilities or a Spa Available On-Site?
This property doesn’t offer fitness facilities or a spa. The focus is on providing a traditional Japanese ryokan experience, with comfortable accommodations, delicious vegetarian meals, and easy access to nearby ski slopes and onsens.
Does the Inn Offer Any Organized Activities or Excursions?
The inn doesn’t offer organized activities or excursions, but guests can take advantage of its excellent location near the Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort and Lake Hokuryu to explore the surrounding natural beauty independently.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Longer Stays?
The inn doesn’t mention any discounts or packages for longer stays. However, guests may be able to negotiate better rates for extended bookings by directly contacting the property.
Is the Inn Accessible for Guests With Mobility Challenges?
The inn does not explicitly mention wheelchair accessibility. However, the traditional Japanese-style accommodations with tatami floors and futon bedding may pose challenges for guests with mobility issues. It’s best to inquire directly about accessibility before booking.
Can Guests Store Their Ski/Snowboard Equipment Safely Overnight?
The property offers skiing facilities and storage, allowing guests to safely store their ski or snowboard equipment overnight. Guests can conveniently access the slopes from the inn.
The Sum Up
Hatoguruma Kawabata offers an authentic Japanese experience in the heart of Nozawa Onsen. With its impressive 9.1/10 rating, the ryokan boasts an excellent location, friendly staff, and delectable vegetarian cuisine. Ideally situated near top attractions, it provides the perfect base for travelers seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and rich traditions of the Japanese Alps. This ryokan is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable cultural escape.