Name: Kamesei Ryokan
Address: 2-15-1 Kamiyamada Onsen, Chikuma-shi, Chikuma, 389-0821, JP

8/10

Excellent

23 Jun 2026

Russell

Beautiful though slightly older ryokan. Owners were absolutely lovely, helpful, very friendly and were great to have a chat with. Due to some communication issues we were unable to organise a meal there, but the owners were very apologetic and offered a free session in the private family onsen as recompense, which was lovely. The home made cookies were also delicious and we bought a box to take with us. This was our first ever stay in a ryokan so we were not quite sure what to expect. But I think we were all unified in our horror when we came back after dinner to see our beds. We assumed a futon mattress would be like what we are familiar with at home (Australia), which is a 10cm mattress. These were so much worse than expected, and after staying in two more ryokans during the course of our stay, we realised this is standard. That the Japanese futon mattress is about 2cm thick. I kid you not. Three of our beds had 2 of these mattress’s, and one only had one. For all intents and purposes we were basically just sleeping on the floor. Combine that with the fact the air on didn’t seem to be working and we had to leave the window open all night, I would say this was pretty much our worst night sleep for our whole trip. Which is a shame, because there was so much to love about this ryokan, its owners and the location. Such a cute and peaceful little town.

Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

26 May 2026

Bryan

Tyler, Mari, Andy and Mio were fantastic hosts, The kaiseki-style food was amazing (I opted for the half board; the ultimate way to go). From the moment I had walked into the ryokan, I had felt like my dreams had come true. From what I had only imagined and seen in anime/videos to actually experiencing a traditional ryokan with traditional Japanese-styled rooms. Equipped with tatami mats, shogi screens, and breath-taking views (I had the second floor room with a view of Mt. Hattoh).

The room was kept exceptionally clean (I forgot to include photos of the room, but they are online to look at) and the provided yukata and geta sandals really rounded out the experience (there weren’t that many people walking around in the first place, so a foreigner in a yukata and geta sandals felt out of place at least for me; I walked around the town and no one paid any mind to what I was wearing and actually complimented it).

Since Kamesei Ryokan was my very first venture into using an onsen (they do allow tattoos in their onsen, but if you’re not comfortable you can rent a private bath), I didn’t know the etiquette. I did use it; the natural hot springs felt fantastic on my body, relieving every aching muscle that had been used for walking over 20k steps a day, and the 100-year open air bath was amazing even at midnight.

Make sure you immerse yourself in the experience there; wear the yukata, bathe in the onsen, and enjoy yourself; I travelled solo this time, and i will come back.

Self

10/10

Exceptional

08 Feb 2026

Thomas

The staff was very friendly and likeable. The public bath was very relaxing and kept at a good temperature.

Friends_and_family Friends

10/10

Exceptional

26 Jan 2026

James

Very nice stay.

Leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

09 Jan 2026

Heidi

We had a great stay here. It was lovely to be greeted upon arrival, to be given advice on what to do and where to eat. In the evenings, Tyler invited all of the guests for hot apple cider. One night he taught us a game and a dance; this sort of experience is what you hope to have when travelling. We enjoyed the onsen, especially that they swap the sides so that you can try both. We slept especially soundly, largely thanks to the onsen, but also the comfy and peaceful space. Thank you!

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

05 Jan 2026

Maurice

Clean room and nice amenities

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

15 Dec 2025

Neal

Amazing staff who were generous with their time. Great onsen and meal experience. Highly recommend!

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

19 Oct 2025

Julien

I had a wonderful time at Kamesei Ryokan. The atmosphere was peaceful, and I was able to truly relax in the onsen. A great place to unwind and enjoy authentic Japanese hospitality.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

01 May 2025

Nicole

Our stay here was amazing. I'm just sad that we only had two nights here, as we could have happily spent several days exploring the local area. We enjoyed the traditional Japanese inn and rooms, which were simply and beautifully decorated. The communal baths were nice, and I especially enjoyed the Hundred Year Bath, a delightful outdoor stone hot spring bath. We loved the private onsen, which we booked both nights of our stay. The ryokan is located near to many restaurants and bars. Tyler and Mari will tell you about the various options in the area and answer any questions. If you want a traditional Japanese ryokan experience, we highly recommend Kamesei Ryokan.

Leisure Partner

10/10

Exceptional

11 Apr 2025

Marianne

This was our family's first experience with onsen culture, and it did not disappoint! Tyler-san is a patient and kind host, sharing his love of local cuisine and traditions, leading or driving us to where we needed to go. We felt very welcome and really enjoyed the spa. The property is beautifully decorated and there is a place for everyone and every age, whether you need to curl up with a book, play the piano or board games, gaze at the garden, warm yourself by the fire, or enjoy soaking in the onsen. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

18 Feb 2025

Darrell

Excellent tradition style ryokan

Great facility, and excellent food. I went in winter when the outdoor bath could not compete with the weather, so the indoor bath was hotter. The nearby restaurant, Rokkatei was excellent if you arrive before lunch or dinner at Kamesei

Self

10/10

Exceptional

09 Aug 2024

sonia

Très beau ryokan, bien situé, tranquille. Les propriétaires sont vraiment gentils et accueillants. Le souper kaseiki ryori était juste parfait!

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

16 Jan 2024

Khan Wee Daniel

The hospitality of the hosts were amazing! The food offered was delicious and the onsen was clean, safe and great.

Leisure Friends

10/10

Exceptional

06 Dec 2023

Ellen

The property owner picked up us from the train station and dropped us off too. He gave us good advice around the area. I wish I could have stayed longer.

Leisure Family

8/10

Excellent

12 Sep 2023

Shuk

The owner is so friendly and fun. He will introduce their town when we check in. He even drives us to the train station before we ask. It’s a great roykan and I definitely this property is my friends.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

15 Jan 2023

heather

Our stay at the Kamesei Ryokan with host Tyler-San was a superb highlight of our 2 week trip in Japan. We loved the traditional inn & room, the hot onsen baths, the amazing dinner they cooked, and the hospitality of Tyler during our stay. Tyler even picked us up and dropped us off at the train station. We were able to make a day trip to see the snow monkeys as well. Having the ability to experience such a traditional experience was only possible with Tyler’s perfect English and kindness. My son who is learning Japanese just loved it, as did the whole family (2 adults, 2 kids age 15 & 13). I would highly recommend and hope to visit again!

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

02 May 2019

Brad

Easy to get to, great service, friendly staff, and a great onsen to soak in. Lots to do in the immediate area, including tons of restaurants. The hosts are extremely helpful and knowledgeable about the area.

Leisure Family

10/10

Exceptional

06 Jan 2019

Vanessa

Lovely family run Ryokan with Onsen

What a great find! A lovely family run Ryokan with an Onsen, traditional garden and Japanese cuisine. We felt right at home having a relaxing few days here in Onsen town. Its a quiet retreat type of place, we were there in early January and so it was chilly outside and the hot baths made for a great way to spend the day.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

09 Apr 2018

Corey

Lovely and Charming Onsen Hotel, Great Hosts

Tyler and Mari are excellent hosts.
We took a bike tour with Tyler and absolutely loved it. We upgraded our room to one of the multi-room suites with private toilet.
The place is old, wood construction, and in a much older and more traditional Japanese style. It got cold at night in the hallways but the provided yukatas were plenty warm.
We ordered the breakfast and dinner combination and liked it so much we ended up eating breakfast here again our second morning.
If you reserve a room for 2+ nights you get usage of the private onsen for free, otherwise it costs to make a reservation.
It should be noted that the only showers, to the best of my knowledge, are with the onsen. So you should be comfortable with a public (sex separated) shower. There is no privacy.
We would definitely stay again and for more time to sample more of the local specialties.

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

17 Feb 2018

kim

Wonderful! Great English-speaking hosts!

The hosts were amazingly helpful in every way. The hot springs were really wonderful as well. Don’t miss the real ryokan experience!

8/10

Excellent

06 Dec 2017

Lisa

Nice hotel with excellent hospitality

I read the story of Tyler & Mari saving the family 100 yrs old Ryokan & found it very touching. It’s the 1st time that a host/management ‘Tyler’ would contacted me after the booking. They made me feel very welcomed from the start till the end. The place is so nice & spacious. The hospitality is wonderful. The hot pools are great (men side is so much nicer than women side). I’d definitely go again.

10/10

Exceptional

25 Nov 2017

maureen

Had a nice time in Togara small town we were winding down from a hectic schedule. Walking tour with Tyler was very informative unlucky for us it was a public holiday . Our traditional dinner and geisha show was fun and enjoyable. The staff were friendly Tyler and Mari were excellent hosts thank you

Family

10/10

Exceptional

10 Apr 2017

Verified traveler

Very nice

The host was very helpful, and extremely nice!
The place felt very quaint and felt like a home.

10/10

Exceptional

08 Apr 2017

Jason

Perfect Way to Experience Japan

My time at Kamesei Ryokan was my best in Japan. Nothing can compare to the relaxing atmosphere of not only the inn but the town as well. Tyler was great at explaining the ins and outs of ryokan life as well as giving recommendations for what to do and where to eat in town. Although my Japanese would have been able to get me through if needed, Tyler's native English made it all so much easier. The food was also incredible. I had both breakfast and dinner with them and was impressed. There were many items served which I would have never tried had it not been for my stay at Kamesei and I am glad that I did. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience. ありがとうございました

10/10

Exceptional

24 Feb 2017

Patrick

Classic style onsen inn in Togura

First up, this is not a 5* hotel, but it does not pretend to be. It is a 100 year old onsen ryokan run by an irrepressible American (Tyler) and his lovely wife (Mari). My latest visit was a short break from Tokyo and Mari was her usual cheerful self despite our 10 p.m. arrival (yes, we were late).
While we did not dine at the ryokan this time, the food options are good, and one of the best things about this area (Kamiyamda onsen) is the quality and sulfur content of the water.
Two days of relaxation passed too quickly, but fortunately I get to visit often.

10/10

Exceptional

31 Jan 2017

Georgia

Wonderful, comfy, and delicious experience

It was amazing. We didn't want to leave. It was our first ryokan experience and I wish we'd tried it before! The dinner was exquisite, the staff was very welcoming, and the service was awesome. The onsens were both very enjoyable, too! (Didn't have time to try the private bath.)

Partner

10/10

Exceptional

16 Dec 2016

Verified traveler

Charming Ryoken

Tyler and his wife were wonderful hosts. We felt very comfortable and the family enjoyed the whole onsen and dinner experience.

Family

10/10

Exceptional

02 Jun 2026

Fredrik

Cosy and personal, would go again for sure.

Friends_and_family Family

8/10

Excellent

22 May 2026

SEONHEE

유서깊은 숙소였고 온천 이용할 수 있어서 좋았다

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

24 Oct 2025

Masato

源泉かけ流し温泉

源泉かけ流しの温泉がとても気持ち良かった。

Business

10/10

Exceptional

08 Aug 2025

Mathieu

Excellente nuit

Excellent rapport qualité prix
Les petits cookies etaient tres bons

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

06 Aug 2025

Verified traveler

アットホームなホスピタリティ。

お出迎えの手焼きクッキーが美味しいですよ。
ご主人、女将さんのアットホームな優しさに
触れられます。親戚のお宅に泊めていただくようで
落ち着きます。手作りの露天風呂に癒されました。

Friends_and_family Family

4/10

Poor

31 May 2025

YOSHIROU

良かったです

家族で利用させていただきました。旅館の佇まいは古さが良い雰囲気でしたが、やはり客室やお風呂トイレ等は用修理箇所が所々見受けられました。全体的には清潔感ありで過ごし易かったです。

Friends_and_family Family

10/10

Exceptional

31 May 2025

Motohiro

松本から松代・上田・小諸へと移動する際に宿泊しました。

・温泉は源泉掛け流しで最高
・一番リーズナブルなトイレなしの部屋をお願いしましたか、共用トイレはすごく綺麗
・風呂の脱衣所もすごく綺麗

素泊まりだったので夕飯のおすすめの店を相談したら女将さんが丁寧に教えてくれて、「おしぼりうどん」と「おやき」の店に行きました♪
短い滞在でしたが良い時間を過ごすことができました。
機会があればまた泊まりたいです

Business Self

10/10

Exceptional

18 May 2025

マヤ

クッキー美味しかったです🍪オーナーご夫婦とても親切で良い方たちでした！

Leisure Family_with_children

10/10

Exceptional

06 May 2025

Frida

Veldig koselig plass, men hyggelig japansk atmosfære. Vi fikk prøve Onsen som var veldig behagelig. Hyggelige ansatte som ga gode anbefalinger om området. Anbefales å prøve.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

03 Aug 2024

Kazuhiro

Good hospitality

6/10

Pleasant

04 May 2024

よしひこ

部屋の洗面所でお湯が出なかった

8/10

Excellent

07 Feb 2024

??

露天風呂が夜、使えなくてがっかり。でも綺麗で手書きの地図が素敵だった。

10/10

Exceptional

20 Dec 2021

Verified traveler

歴史と新しさが心地良い宿（Confortable Japanese Sytle Hotel)

歴史ある建物とシアトルから来た若旦那のサービスがとても心地よい旅館。上山田温泉の良質な温泉の風呂と食事に加えて、海外からのお客様にも満足いただけるサービスでもっと滞在したくなりました。今回はB&B滞在でしたが次回は是非夕飯も頂きたいとおもいました。7つある外湯巡りの拠点としても最適です。

A very comfortable Japanese style hotel (Ryokan) with a historic building and the service of a young owner coming from Seattle. Because of the high-quality hot spa of Kamiyamada natural spring and breakfast meals served at the hotel, I wanted to stay longer and longer. The services would satisfy customers from both domestic and overseas. This time we stayed as B&B, so we missed to take the dinner. Next time we definitely have the dinner. at the hotel is located in the ideal place for the base in order for visiting the seven public hot spas around the Tokura Kamiyamada area.

Partner

8/10

Excellent

19 Aug 2021

Verified traveler

・泉質が良く、温泉旅館に来たという実感を楽しめた。
・お茶菓子の自家製クッキーがおいしく、お土産を頼んた。
・ご主人、女将さんともに気さくで、こころ休まった。

Self

10/10

Exceptional

12 Jul 2021

Tsutomu

昨今の日本人が忘れがちな「心」を感じました。
価値のある旅館です。
帰省をかねた旅行でしたが、泊まって良かった、と思える旅館でした。
価格もとてもリーズナブルですしお出かけの際は、是非。