In our review of this traditional Japanese inn, we found a charming escape nestled in Matsumoto. Just a short drive from the train station and local attractions, it offers a genuine taste of Japanese hospitality.
You’ll sleep on tatami mats, soak in hot springs, and savor multi-course feasts served by attentive staff. While the experience is mostly positive, the Wi-Fi could use an upgrade, and some travelers might find the traditional sleeping arrangements a bit too authentic for comfort.
This ryokan is perfect for culture enthusiasts and those seeking a break from Western-style hotels, but might not suit tech-dependent guests or those with mobility issues.
If you’re after an immersive Japanese experience with a side of pampering, this could be your ideal home away from home in Nagano Prefecture.
We included this ryokan in our top 6 ryokan picks in Asama Onsen, Matsumoto.
Good To Know
- Hotel Umenoyu is a renowned ryokan located in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, providing a unique cultural experience in a serene setting.
- The hotel is conveniently situated, with a 15-minute drive from the JR Matsumoto Train Station and 10-minute drive from key cultural attractions.
- Guests can enjoy a true Japanese lodging experience with tatami-floored rooms equipped with modern amenities and access to an onsen hot spring bath.
- The hotel offers traditional multi-course meals served with attentive Nakai-san attendant, showcasing Japanese culinary traditions.
- Hotel Umenoyu prioritizes guest health and safety, with COVID-19 precautions and a strict tattoo policy in place for the public bathing areas.
Hotel Overview
Hotel Umenoyu is a renowned ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, situated in the picturesque town of Matsumoto within Nagano Prefecture.
This cozy accommodation is located just a 15-minute drive from the JR Matsumoto Train Station and a 10-minute drive from the iconic Matsumoto Castle and Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum.
Boasting a 7.5/10 rating based on 58 reviews, Hotel Umenoyu offers guests a unique cultural experience in a serene, natural setting.
With its convenient location and traditional Japanese-style amenities, this ryokan provides a comfortable and authentic home base for travelers exploring the charming Asama Onsen area.
Location and Accessibility
Situated in the picturesque town of Matsumoto within Nagano Prefecture, Hotel Umenoyu is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from the JR Matsumoto Train Station.
The ryokan is also just a 10-minute drive from the iconic Matsumoto Castle and the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s cultural attractions.
With its easy accessibility and proximity to key landmarks, Hotel Umenoyu offers guests a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.
Whether arriving by train, car, or other means, guests will find the ryokan’s location to be well-connected and conducive to discovering the best of Matsumoto.
Accommodation Details
The ryokan’s accommodations provide guests with a true Japanese lodging experience.
The air-conditioned rooms feature tatami flooring and Japanese futon bedding, along with modern amenities like a flat-screen TV, fridge, and electric kettle. Each room has an en-suite bathroom.
Visitors can enjoy the property’s non-smoking rooms and family rooms, as well as take advantage of the free parking and WiFi.
The ryokan also offers a public bath and hot spring bath, plus massage services for an additional charge.
While breakfast isn’t available, the hotel serves traditional multi-course meals in the shared dining area, with a personal Nakai-san attendant.
Hotel Amenities
The ryokan boasts a range of amenities to enhance guests’ stay. Accommodations feature air-conditioning, tatami flooring, Japanese futon bedding, and en-suite bathrooms with modern facilities like flat-screen TVs, fridges, and electric kettles. Beyond the rooms, visitors can enjoy the public onsen hot spring bath, relax with massage services, and take advantage of free parking and WiFi. The ryokan also provides traditional multi-course meals served with personalized Nakai-san attendant service in the shared dining area. However, breakfast is not offered.
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Rooms | Air-conditioned, tatami flooring, Japanese futon bedding, flat-screen TV, fridge, electric kettle, en-suite bathroom |
| Facilities | Public onsen hot spring bath, massage services (extra charge), free parking, free WiFi |
| Dining | Traditional multi-course meals with Nakai-san attendant service; no breakfast available |
Dining Options
One of the key features at Hotel Umenoyu is its dining experience. The ryokan serves traditional multi-course meals in a shared dining area, with a personal Nakai-san attendant to provide attentive service.
While breakfast isn’t offered, guests can enjoy evening food options to complete their traditional Japanese experience. The menu features:
- Seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients crafted into elegant, multi-course meals.
- Served in the shared dining room, fostering a communal atmosphere.
- Personalized Nakai-san attendant to ensure a high-quality, authentic dining experience.
Dining at Hotel Umenoyu is an integral part of the ryokan stay, allowing guests to enjoy Japanese culinary traditions.
Guest Reviews
Guests at Hotel Umenoyu have generally praised the welcoming staff and comfortable accommodations.
A French traveler, Simone, noted the "very nice Ryokan with free onsen access and provided yukata."
Similarly, Rafa from Spain commended the "extremely friendly and helpful" staff.
Bronwen from Australia appreciated the "comfy tatami room" and "nice onsen."
The hotel has earned solid ratings, with 8.2 for staff, 7.9 for comfort, and 7.8 for cleanliness.
However, the WiFi received a lower score of 6.7, and the location was rated 7.3.
The Ryokan seems to offer a pleasant traditional Japanese experience for those visiting Matsumoto.
Policies and Information
At Hotel Umenoyu, check-in takes place from 15:00 to 19:00, and guests must check out before 10:00.
The hotel’s cancellation and prepayment policies vary depending on the accommodation type.
Children aren’t allowed, and no cots or extra beds are available. Pets aren’t permitted on the property, and smoking is prohibited.
Guests must inform the hotel of their expected arrival time and any special requests at the time of booking.
The hotel has the following key policies and information:
Tattoo Policy: Guests with visible tattoos may not be permitted in public bathing areas or facilities.
COVID-19 Precautions: The hotel has suspended shuttle services and implemented physical distancing measures, mandatory face masks in indoor areas, and additional documentation may be requested.
Special Requests: Guests must inform the hotel of their expected arrival time and any special requests at the time of booking.
Health and Safety Measures
Hotel Umenoyu has implemented several measures to prioritize the health and safety of its guests. COVID-19 precautions include temporarily suspending shuttle services, enforcing physical distancing, and requiring face masks in indoor areas. Guests may also need to provide additional documentation. Further, the ryokan has a strict tattoo policy, prohibiting guests with visible tattoos from using the public bathing areas and facilities.
| COVID-19 Precautions | Tattoo Policy |
|---|---|
| – Suspension of shuttle services | – Guests with visible tattoos may not be permitted in public bathing areas |
| – Physical distancing measures | – Tattoos are prohibited in facilities |
| – Mandatory face masks in indoor areas |
Additional documentation may be requested from guests upon arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Hotel’s Cancellation Policy for Group Bookings?
The cancellation policy for group bookings varies by accommodation type at this hotel. Guests should inform the hotel of any cancellations or changes to their reservation in advance to avoid potential fees.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Long Stays?
The hotel doesn’t offer discounts or packages for long stays. However, guests can inquire about potential special rates or deals when booking directly with the property. The best way to get the most competitive pricing is to check the hotel’s website or contact them directly.
Can the Hotel Arrange Transportation From the Nearest Airport?
Yes, the hotel can arrange transportation from the nearest airport. They offer pick-up and drop-off services to and from Matsumoto Airport, which is approximately 30 minutes away from the ryokan.
Is There a Dress Code for the Onsen or Public Areas?
There’s no formal dress code, but guests are expected to wear a yukata robe when using the onsen or public areas. Swimsuits aren’t permitted, as the onsen experience is meant to be relaxing and traditional.
Does the Hotel Have Any Specific Policies for Guests With Dietary Restrictions?
The hotel’s website indicates they can accommodate guests with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or halal, with advance notice. Guests should inform the hotel of any special dietary needs when making their booking.
The Sum Up
Hotel Umenoyu offers a unique ryokan experience in Nagano’s Asama Onsen. With its convenient location, traditional accommodations, and a range of amenities, this ryokan provides travelers with an immersive glimpse into Japanese cultural heritage. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or a cultural exploration, Hotel Umenoyu promises a memorable and authentic Japanese experience.