Hidden in the snow-covered hills of Yamanouchi, this Swiss-inspired inn offers straightforward comfort for ski enthusiasts. From my stay, I found the location ideal – you can clip on your skis right outside and hit the slopes. Inside, Japanese hospitality meets Alpine charm with essential amenities including a soothing hot spring bath, reliable WiFi, and an on-site restaurant serving hearty meals.
The rooms, while functional with their flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges, can feel a bit dated, and the 6.9 rating suggests there’s room for improvement. Some guests might find the shuttle-to-parking arrangement a minor hassle, especially with heavy luggage.
This place really shines for active travelers and families who prioritize slope access over luxury. The ski school and rental facilities make it particularly appealing for first-time skiers, while the proximity to Nagano’s historic sites and Kusatsu’s famous hot springs offers welcome diversions on rest days. Budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts who want to maximize their time on the mountain will find good value here.
This hotel earned its place in our top 23 hotel picks in Shiga Highlands, Yamanouchi.
Good To Know
- The Shiga Swiss Inn is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan, offering ski-in/ski-out access and amenities like free parking, non-smoking rooms, and complimentary WiFi.
- The hotel has an on-site restaurant serving Asian and European cuisine, and provides additional services like a shared lounge, ski rental, and ski school.
- Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and refrigerators, catering to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and leisure travelers.
- The hotel’s check-in is from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM, and check-out is between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, with child charges and card payments only policies.
- The hotel is located approximately 29 miles from Nagano and 22 miles from Kusatsu, with a shuttle service available to a nearby parking area.
Hotel Overview
The Shiga Swiss Inn is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan.
It has a rating of 6.9 based on 16 reviews, which is considered "Pleasant."
The hotel’s strongest categories are its staff (8.4) and location (8.0).
Other categories include facilities (6.1), cleanliness (6.9), comfort (6.9), and value for money (7.8).
The Shiga Swiss Inn offers a range of amenities, such as free parking, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi, a hot spring bath, a restaurant, and a buffet breakfast.
Guests can also enjoy features like flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, refrigerators, and ski-in/ski-out access.
Amenities and Services
Among the hotel’s key amenities are free parking, non-smoking rooms, and complimentary WiFi. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s hot spring bath and on-site restaurant serving Asian and European cuisine.
Room features include flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, refrigerators, and ski-in/ski-out access.
Additional services offered by the hotel include:
- Shared lounge/TV area
- Vending machines
- Wake-up service
- Ski rental and ski school
The hotel caters to guests’ needs and provides a range of useful amenities and services to enhance their stay.
Room Features
Rooms at the Shiga Swiss Inn feature flat-screen TVs, allowing guests to comfortably unwind. Each room is equipped with an electric kettle, perfect for brewing a soothing cup of tea.
The in-room refrigerator provides space to store personal items and snacks. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the hotel offers ski-in/ski-out access, making it easy to hit the slopes.
Guests can take advantage of the shared lounge and TV area, which offers a cozy space to relax and socialize.
With these amenities, the Shiga Swiss Inn provides a comfortable and convenient stay for its visitors.
Additional Services
Along With the guest room amenities, the Shiga Swiss Inn offers a variety of supplementary services to enhance the overall experience.
Guests can enjoy the shared lounge/TV area for relaxation and socializing. The hotel also provides a wake-up service to ensure punctual starts to the day.
For convenience, a vending machine offering drinks is available on-site. Plus, the hotel facilitates ski rental and ski school access, catering to the needs of winter sports enthusiasts.
These additional services cater to the diverse requirements of the hotel’s guests, contributing to a well-rounded and satisfactory stay.
Guest Policies
The Shiga Swiss Inn has straightforward guest policies.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM, with advance notice required. Guests must check out between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
Children of all ages are welcome, but those 7 and above are charged as adults. Unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed.
The inn only accepts card payments, as they don’t accept cash.
Location and Accessibility
Located about 29 miles from Nagano and 22 miles from Kusatsu, the Shiga Swiss Inn offers convenient access to popular destinations in the region.
The hotel is situated approximately 74 miles from Matsumoto Airport, providing guests with easy transportation options. To assist visitors, the inn offers a shuttle service to a nearby parking area, though reservation is required.
The hotel’s strategic location allows guests to explore the surrounding attractions with ease:
- Nagano, a historic city known for its temples and ski resorts
- Kusatsu, a renowned hot spring town
- Nearby ski slopes and outdoor recreational activities
- Convenient access to public transportation
Guest Feedback
Guests have rated the Shiga Swiss Inn as pleasant, with specific praise for its attentive staff and convenient location. The inn’s overall rating stands at 6.9 out of 10, based on 16 reviews. A closer look at the individual categories reveals the following:
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Staff | 8.4 |
| Facilities | 6.1 |
| Cleanliness | 6.9 |
Guests have highlighted the inn’s free parking, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi, and on-site hot spring bath as key amenities. Plus, the ski-in/ski-out access and availability of a restaurant serving Asian and European cuisine have been well-received.
Safety Features
Shiga Swiss Inn places a strong emphasis on guest safety, with several key security features in place.
The hotel is equipped with fire extinguishers to quickly address any potential fire hazards. Plus, CCTV cameras are installed in the common areas, providing 24/7 surveillance to monitor the premises.
Smoke alarms are strategically placed throughout the property, ensuring early detection and prompt response in case of an emergency.
For added security, the hotel offers key access and a safe for guests to securely store their valuables during their stay.
- Fire extinguishers
- CCTV in common areas
- Smoke alarms
- Key access and safe available
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There On-Site Ski Equipment Rental Available?
According to the amenities, the hotel offers ski rental and ski school services, allowing guests to conveniently access skiing equipment and lessons on-site.
What Time Is Check-In and Check-Out?
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM, with advance notice required. Check-out is between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. The hotel has flexible hours to accommodate guests’ needs and schedules.
Do They Offer Any Special Packages or Deals?
The hotel doesn’t appear to offer any special packages or deals based on the information provided. The overview focuses on the standard amenities, services, and policies without mentioning any promotional offers or discounted packages.
Is the Hotel Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?
The hotel’s website doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility features for guests with disabilities. It’s best to inquire directly with the hotel about their accommodations and facilities to ensure they meet the needs of guests with special requirements.
Can the Hotel Arrange Transportation From the Nearest Airport?
The hotel can arrange a shuttle service to nearby parking areas, but it requires prior reservation. Guests will need to make their own arrangements for transportation from the nearest airport, which is Matsumoto Airport located 74 miles away.
The Sum Up
The Shiga Swiss Inn in Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan, offers a perfect blend of alpine charm and modern comforts for travelers seeking a peaceful mountain retreat. With its ski-in/ski-out access, rejuvenating hot spring baths, and diverse dining options, the hotel promises a memorable stay, complemented by attentive customer service and a prime location that allows easy exploration of the surrounding natural wonders.