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Shibu Onsen Kokuya
Nagano · Japan
2200 Hirao Yamanouchi Shimotakai Gun 381 0401View location
9.4/10Excellent132 Reviews
Cleanliness9.4/10 9.4
Service9.6/10 9.6
Comfort8.8/10 8.8
Condition9.0/10 9.0
Neighborhood9.4/10 9.4
Amenities9.6/10 9.6
See all ratings- Hotels with spa
Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.
About Shibu Onsen Kokuya
Nestled in Yamanouchi's entertainment district, Shibu Onsen KOKUYA offers a relaxing escape just steps from Shibu and a short drive from Shiga Kogen Ski Area. This spa ryokan boasts individually decorated guestrooms, each equipped with a refrigerator, minibar, and complimentary wired and wireless internet access.
Guests can enjoy on-site dining at one of the ryokan's three restaurants, including Tyoseian, specializing in Japanese cuisine. The spa provides massage services, and recreational amenities such as hot springs, karaoke, and bicycle rentals are also available.
A complimentary train station pick-up service and free valet parking are provided for added convenience.
Show less
Located in Yamanouchi (Hirao), Shibu Onsen KOKUYA is steps from Shibu and a 2-minute drive from Yudanaka Hot Spring. This spa ryokan is 6.6 mi (10.6 km) from Shigakogen Hasuike Ski Area and 18.9 mi (30.4 km) from Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort.
Make yourself at home in one of the 19 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring refrigerators and minibars. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming provides entertainment. Bathrooms have slippers and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and electric kettles, and housekeeping is provided daily.
Featured amenities include multilingual staff, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. A train station pick-up service is provided at no charge, and free valet parking is available onsite.
Popular amenities
Free WiFi
Parking available
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Spa
Entertainment
Smoking areas
Transportation services
Check-in and check-out
Check-in from
3:00 PM
Check-in until
6:00 PM
Check-out until
10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age
18
Hotel policies
No cribs (infant beds) available
No elevators
Unicode Support true
Professional property host/manager
Pets not allowed
Cleaning and safety
Essential Travel
Essential workers only - NO
Important information
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Property Alerts
You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:
- A city tax may be collected at the property. The city tax ranges from JPY 100–10,000 per person, per night based on the nightly room rate. Please note that further exemptions may apply. For more details, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
- A tax is imposed by the city: JPY 150.00 per person, per night. This tax does not apply to children under 12 years of age.
- A bathing tax, collected at the property, may be charged. The bathing tax applies to properties with hot springs and ranges from JPY 150-500 per person, per night based on local regulations. Please note that further exemptions may apply.
We have included all charges provided to us by the property.
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You need to know
- Reservations are required for private bath/onsen. Reservations can be made by contacting the ryokan prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
- Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
- The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare requires all international visitors to submit their passport number and nationality when registering at any lodging facility (inns, hotels, motels, etc. ). Additionally, lodging proprietors are required to photocopy passports for all registering guests and keep the photocopy on file.
- Please note that some properties do not permit guests with tattoos to use the onsite public bathing facilities.
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Special Instructions
This property offers transfers from the train station. Guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
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Instructions
- Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
- Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
- Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
- Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve access to the public bathing facility
- This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
- Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
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Minimal age
18
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Optional fees
- Fee for full breakfast: approximately JPY 2200 per person
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
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Spoken Language
Thai
Japanese
English
Spanish
Nearby attractions
Shibu
0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Shibuyu Bridge
0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Sake Storehouse and Museum
0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Onsen-ji Temple
0.4 km / 0.3 mi
Heiwakannon
0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Baio-ji Temple
1.4 km / 0.9 mi
Yudanaka Hot Spring
1.5 km / 0.9 mi
Nishimiya Shrine
1.7 km / 1.1 mi
Minzoku Shiryokan Gosetsu No Yakata
1.8 km / 1.1 mi
Shiga Kogen Romance Museum
1.8 km / 1.1 mi
Yumiya Shrine
2.1 km / 1.3 mi
Joshin'etsu-kogen National Park
2.3 km / 1.4 mi
Jigokudani Monkey Park
3.2 km / 2 mi
Japan Clay Dolls Museum
7.1 km / 4.4 mi
Kokugonji
10.2 km / 6.3 mi
Hotel facilities & services
Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.
- Total number of rooms: 19
- hotel
- Car park
- 24-hour reception
- Check-in hour
- Check-out hour
- Wi-fi
- Valet parkingExtra charge
- Room serviceExtra charge
- Laundry service
- Bicycle hire service
- Multilingual staff
Show 20 more facilities & services
- 24-hour securityExtra charge
- Hotel safeExtra charge
- Lift accessExtra charge
- Newspaper stand
- Shop
- Luggage room
- BarExtra charge
- Restaurant: 2
- Smoking areaExtra charge
- SaunaExtra charge
- MassageExtra charge
- Spa treatments
- Spa centreExtra charge
- Breakfast
- Non-smoking establishment
- Table tennisExtra charge
- GolfExtra charge
- TennisExtra charge
- SkiingExtra charge
- Golf practice facilityExtra charge
Meal plans
Meal plan types
Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.
HB
Half Board
Usually includes breakfast and one additional meal.
RO
Room Only
Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.
Upon availability
Room types
These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability
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Room JAPANESE ROOMRoom • JAPANESE ROOMROO.JE
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room JAPANESE ROOM
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.JE
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room JAPANESE ROOM WITH SHARED BATHROOMRoom • JAPANESE ROOM WITH SHARED BATHROOMROO.JE-FH
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM WITH SHARED BATHROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room JAPANESE ROOM WITH SHARED BATHROOM
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM WITH SHARED BATHROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.JE-FH
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room ECONOMYRoom • ECONOMYROO.EY
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- ECONOMY
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room ECONOMY
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- ECONOMY
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.EY
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKINGRoom • JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKINGROO.JE-NM
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKING
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKING
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM NON SMOKING
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.JE-NM
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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TWIN JAPANESE ROOMTWIN • JAPANESE ROOMTWN.JE
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
- Room type
- TWIN
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
TWIN JAPANESE ROOM
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
- Room type
- TWIN
- View / characteristic
- JAPANESE ROOM
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: TWN.JE
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room INNERRoom • INNERROO.IN
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- INNER
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room INNER
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- INNER
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.IN
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room INNER-SUPERIORRoom • INNER-SUPERIORROO.IN-SU
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- INNER-SUPERIOR
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room INNER-SUPERIOR
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- INNER-SUPERIOR
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.IN-SU
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room RUN OF HOUSERoom • RUN OF HOUSEROO.RO
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- RUN OF HOUSE
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room RUN OF HOUSE
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- RUN OF HOUSE
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.RO
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room DELUXERoom • DELUXEROO.DX
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- DELUXE
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room DELUXE
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- DELUXE
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.DX
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
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Room SUPERIORRoom • SUPERIORROO.SU
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- SUPERIOR
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
Check availabilityShibu Onsen Kokuya
Room SUPERIOR
Room photos
Photos are not available for this room type.
Room overview
- Occupancy
- Guests: 1–10 • Adults: max. 10 • Children: max. 6
- Room type
- Room
- View / characteristic
- SUPERIOR
Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.
Room code: ROO.SU
Limited room details from hotel
Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.
No room types match your search. Try a room name or feature such as a balcony.
Guest reviews
What other guests saying about Shibu Onsen Kokuya
50
reviews shown
Matthew
Extremely friendly staff that were happy to show us through and explain the amenities in perfect English. The meals were beautiful visually and so tasty. Definitely recommend this onsen.
Matthew
We were looking for a more traditional Japenese experience whilst also wanting to see the Snow Monkeys and this place did not disappoint!
Free shuttle from the station to the hotel and we were greeted by very lovely staff members who gave us really useful info on the hotel and the onsen’s within the village. The hotel comes with 9 onsen’s which you can book and get private use through ur the day (no need to book after certain times, you just enter and lock the door). The hotel is also part of a group that gives you access to 9 additional onsen’s through the village with their own healing properties. We were provided with out our Yakuta’s to wear in the hotel and around the village and given a great list of recommendations on where to eat and drink. The village was stunning with a great amount of history and character so we really enjoyed walking around it!
We mainly visited the area for the snow monkeys which was a nice hour long walk away through the hills, the hotel did also offer a shuttle up (I think that would be a paid one)
Rooms were more traditional (careful of your head if you’re tall like me) but was a really great experience along with the traditional Japanese breakfast which was delicious. They were also super helpful and accommodating of my partners gluten allegg egg y providing her with her own tailored breakfast which she also really enjoyed!
Fantastic experience would love to do it all again!
Free shuttle from the station to the hotel and we were greeted by very lovely staff members who gave us really useful info on the hotel and the onsen’s within the village. The hotel comes with 9 onsen’s which you can book and get private use through ur the day (no need to book after certain times, you just enter and lock the door). The hotel is also part of a group that gives you access to 9 additional onsen’s through the village with their own healing properties. We were provided with out our Yakuta’s to wear in the hotel and around the village and given a great list of recommendations on where to eat and drink. The village was stunning with a great amount of history and character so we really enjoyed walking around it!
We mainly visited the area for the snow monkeys which was a nice hour long walk away through the hills, the hotel did also offer a shuttle up (I think that would be a paid one)
Rooms were more traditional (careful of your head if you’re tall like me) but was a really great experience along with the traditional Japanese breakfast which was delicious. They were also super helpful and accommodating of my partners gluten allegg egg y providing her with her own tailored breakfast which she also really enjoyed!
Fantastic experience would love to do it all again!
Jonathan
One of the best stays I've ever had!!
Great service, great food, extremely friendly and helpful staff!!
Great service, great food, extremely friendly and helpful staff!!
Mark
Absolutely wonderful stay for our small family of 3. I want to go back already!
Rodrigo
Beautiful location
Stephanie
The team at Kokuya were excellent throughout our stay - kind, caring and personable, I cannot imagine staying at another Ryokan in the city of Yamaguchi. We are looking forward to seeing Sho-san and the team again very soon!
Elena
I love everything about this place. The atmosphere, beautiful hot springs, very nice host. Checkout was smooth, food was delicious
Lee
Staff very helpful, nice to experience traditional style rooms and dining.
Tamara
What a spectacular place! The staff were very helpful and gracious, the room was lovely, the nine Onsen were all unique with different temperatures of water (the Onsen in town were very very hot, so this was especially nice to have), the food was delicious (they even prepared vegetarian for us!), my message was EXCELLENT. We took the shuttle to see the snow monkeys but walked the 20 minutes back in the sun. And had the special treat of seeing and playing a game with the charming and talented geisha of Shibu Onsen! We had a lovely two night stay.
nova
The private onsen in our room was highlight of our stay. Staff was the best, everyone were helpful and efficient. There is a free shuttle to the snow monkey park.
Diana
A great experience. Staff was amazing and made sure our stay was perfect, from the room, meals, onsen and transport. We went with our kids and they said this was their favorite stay during our trip in Japan. Highly recommend.
Warren
Staff were out standing, very helpful. Love the 400 year old Ryokan - lots of steps. Perfect location.
Nadia
Staff was very helpful and welcoming.The orovate onsenwas superb
Hema
Great location with a historical past. Has 8 onsen on site and rooms have a private onsen. Lots of different ones try on addition to the 9 public baths. Not as personal as I thought
It would be given the generational handover Stayed 2 nights and wished I’d only preferred the set meal for one night to experience the night life outside the ryokan.
It would be given the generational handover Stayed 2 nights and wished I’d only preferred the set meal for one night to experience the night life outside the ryokan.
Darcy
Staff were amazing, food was fantastic, onsen’s were magical. Can’t wait to go back!
Joseph
Excellent service, friendly and helpful english speaking staff, an amazing facility with great baths, all in an incredible location. We would recommend anyone going to Yamanouchi and Shibu onsen stay at Kokuya
Jonathan
Great for the Onsen and Snow Monkeys
Traditional Ryokan with many onsen baths. We had our own outdoor onsen which was nice but you could also use one of the other larger onsen by free reservation, these were great. Traditional Japanese meal for dinner which was lovely and very authentic feeling. Quite expensive.
Jodi
Amazing place! Loved the kaiseki and on site onsen experience
Lucy
Absolutely loved our stay here, it was one of the highlights of our trip. The staff were very attentive and kind and helped us whenever we had a question. We loved the private onsen in our room as well as the option to use the other onsens on the property. The beds were very also one of the most comfortable throughout our entire trip. The dinner and breakfast meals were amazing. We would have loved to stay longer but it was outside of our budget. Thankyou for an amazing experience.
Miriam
Wow what an experience. The service was amazing. So glad we decided to spend a night here. The futton was comfortable and the onsen baths were so relaxing. One of the highlights of our trip.
Rebecca
Great hotel in Shibu Onsen
Loved our stay at Shibu Onsen Kokuya and would highly recommend. They made the trip into the mountains and to see the snow monkeys very easy - with transfers included and bag drop to the station. The traditional dinner and breakfast were a great experience. Also loved the variety of onsen’s available within the hotel itself - and private Onsen with your room if you want!
Dara
This was one of the most amazing experiences of my entire life. The staff there made everything perfect. I didn’t know a place like this existed and I was deeply impressed by every aspect of our trip here. It’s unreal
Natalie
We cannot say enough good things about this property. The staff were incredibly thoughtful, informative, and fun to chat with! We had never stayed in a ryokan before and would recommend KOKUYA to all our friends and family. The food was incredible and we enjoyed the variety of Onsen available just in the hotel (we never made it to the public onsens). They also had a shuttle to the snow monkey park in the morning, and will transport your luggage back to the train station upon departure. We will be back to spend more time in this wonderful place.
Sara
Such a lovely Ryokan, the staff were all so kind and nice. Super friendly! Explained everything so well and offered pick up from a nearby train station and drop off at local monkey park. The baths were all so different and the vibes were really good. Would definitely go again! I'd recommend everyone to go if you want to stay in the area.
patricia
Super helpful staff and they speak English. The customer service was excellent with thorough explanations of the facilities, the meals and the van service to see the snow monkeys the next day (free van service)
Great meals (plenty of great food) and the baths were amazing (onsen). You can book the indoors baths twice in a day (heaven!) and I had a private onsen in my room as well. Even when the weather was super cold and rainy, I was able to enjoy and recover from my long trip. I was not able to get out and walk around the property at night since it was very cold outside. Would definitely love to return!
Great meals (plenty of great food) and the baths were amazing (onsen). You can book the indoors baths twice in a day (heaven!) and I had a private onsen in my room as well. Even when the weather was super cold and rainy, I was able to enjoy and recover from my long trip. I was not able to get out and walk around the property at night since it was very cold outside. Would definitely love to return!
Jacky
For my overnight trip to Nagano, my focus had always been to visit Togakushi Shrine for the giant cedar trees and Jigokudani Yaen Koen for the snow monkeys. This meant that I had to find lodging that was within a reasonable drive from both locations as one was west of Nagano and the other east. As I favored more of visiting Jigokudani Yaen Koen when there are lesser crowds, which meant early morning hours when the park just opens (keep in mind it takes 45 minutes to hike up to the park), I decided to go with Shibu Onsen Kukuya, which was comfortably situated in Shibu Onsen a small onsen town that is 10 minutes drive away from the park. My overall experience with this Ryokan style lodging was exceptional as they were easy to get in touch with, responsive with inquiries, English friendly and very accommodating to their guest needs. The food that came with my room reservation (dinner & breakfast) was comparable to fine dining that you would find in luxury hotels and restaurants from larger cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. The private onsens found within the premises as well as within certain rooms offer a very intimate and comfortable experience. As for the staff, they all offered a world class service from the moment they greet you to moment they bid you farewell, I was truly impressed by the attention to detail and professionalism that each staff member shared. Overall, Shibu Onsen Kokuya has exceeded my expectations and has provided me with an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Paul
A traditional Japanese hotel. They served breakfast and dinner. Exceptional. Staff very helpful, punctual, and sweet. The resort even has onsens within the hotel that guests can use. There is about ten of them. We used them instead of using the Puplic Onsen which we also had access to. Only issue was my husband is tall and had to duck in many doorways. Also we are in our 60’s and sleeping on the floor on mats was a bit uncomfortable. But definitely worth it. And going to the Snow Monkey Park was just awesome. Shuttle service was available at 9:15am. It is best to go early. Loved this place for traditional Japan hospitality.
Heather
This ryokan was an absolute dream. The staff goes above and beyond to make it worth the price. My husband and I got to Nagano station and the only train to get to the ryokan was out of service and we had to take a bus to the snow monkey park with all our luggage and the ryokan used their shuttle to pick us up. They also provide free shuttle service to the snow monkey park in the morning (timed) and free bagging storage. The staff also had amazing English and explained everything the ryokan had to offer as well as helping us with how to get to our next location. Aside from the staff being great, the room we stayed in was amazing (we had the traditional futons, you get to wear traditional yukatas during your stay, and you have access to 6 or so onsens on the premise (you can privately use alone or with your partner/friends/family) and all 9 public onsens in the town. Also, we did the half board and everything we ate was delicious!!!
Kyle
Amazing property in Yamanouchi. Staff was very friendly and the rooms were amazing. The open air bath in the room was serene and relaxing. The private hot springs on the property were all great as well.
Blake
Staff and Manager went out of their way to accomodate our group itinerary, including transportation.
Julie
We absolutely loved our stay here. Everyone was so lovely and helpful. It was an amazing experience.
We’re planning on coming back.
We’re planning on coming back.
Kirill
A great selection of onsens right inside the ryokan. Nice Japanese food in the half board. Very accommodating staff.
Ryan
This property was one of best stays I’ve ever had. The staff were extremely professional and courteous. Food/meals felt authentic and abundant. The onsens offered a more atheistic variety with the added privacy. We cant thank the staff enough for how polite and helpful they truly were!
Boris
We stayed at Kokuya for one night. It is a larger Ryokan compared to some of the others we stayed at. The advantage of this place is that they have at least 8 baths within the property that are very different in look and feel (both indoors and outdoors) and can be booked just for your party (so a couple can use a certain bath without having to be separated by gender) - this is free for all guests. They also provide a key to the town's public baths. Very centrally located. There are yukatas in the room. Would definitely stay again.
Jorch001
It is a nice Ryokan style hotel, hot springs very close to snow monkey park, short train ride to nice sight seeing and cultural sites and great if you want to disconnect from normal day to day life
Danielle
Terrible Stay
Very unhappy with our stay. We confirmed 3 times by email that we would be arriving early. We were told we couldn’t check in but that we could leave our bags and get key to local onsens. We showed up and no one was there. Lights out and a sign saying they would open at 3 pm. Then when we did checkin the room was dirty and dated. We paid for 5 futons and got two (one each). Floor was so hard.
Verified traveler
such great service! the kaiseki meals are also phenomenal. this was our second time at Kokuya and will be back for sure. Note: the property is kind of a maze of stairs, so if you can't handle stairs, this might not be the place for you.
Verified traveler
Beautiful and historical ryokan - this place is incredible. Kokuya has been around for for hundred years and was passed down from generation to generation. You can tell there is a lot of love put into in keeping this traditional inn alive. The multiple hot baths available to guests make it a great and unique place to stay. The service was spot on. The meals were varied and delicious. The only point of feedback would be that some parts of the ryokan need to be updated. The carpet throughout the inn is quite worn and a place this expensive should look like it's worth the expense.
Verified traveler
The facilities were awesome. Dinner and breakfast were amazing as well as the staff and private onsen. Everything was very well coordinated including pick up from the train station, dinner and breakfast, and drop off at the Monkey Park. As a departing gift the staff also gave us a small lunch and some sweets to enjoy on our onward travels. A highlight of our vacation in Japan. Highly recommended.
Kathleen
A ryokan with onsen right by the snow monkey park
\"Shibu Onsen\" is a quaint little town very close to the snow monkey park in Yamanouchi (Nagano). As onsen lovers, it was the perfect gateway for our family. We stayed at the Kokuya because of the history of the place, the number of onsen available (inside the ryokan, but also in the village) and location.
What makes the Kokuya unique is its design - the place is an amazing maze of stairs, guest rooms and baths. The staff is also very kind and caring and made us feel like we were part of the family. They are used to foreigners so English was not a problem.
However, our review wouldn't be complete without a little bit of feedback. Having visited several luxury ryokans throughout Japan, we felt that the
Kokuya is in need of serious TLC and would benefit from some repairs and a fresh coat of paint (among other things). We also noticed some onsen baths to be slimy, including our own private bath.
The quality of food we were served during our stay was not the same; the Friday dinner being much superior to the Thursday one. Guests were allowed to smoke in the hallway, right by the dinning room, which was not pleasant. Overall, we are satisfied with our stay and would recommend for visitors wishing to experience a different type of ryokan experience.
What makes the Kokuya unique is its design - the place is an amazing maze of stairs, guest rooms and baths. The staff is also very kind and caring and made us feel like we were part of the family. They are used to foreigners so English was not a problem.
However, our review wouldn't be complete without a little bit of feedback. Having visited several luxury ryokans throughout Japan, we felt that the
Kokuya is in need of serious TLC and would benefit from some repairs and a fresh coat of paint (among other things). We also noticed some onsen baths to be slimy, including our own private bath.
The quality of food we were served during our stay was not the same; the Friday dinner being much superior to the Thursday one. Guests were allowed to smoke in the hallway, right by the dinning room, which was not pleasant. Overall, we are satisfied with our stay and would recommend for visitors wishing to experience a different type of ryokan experience.
Neil
Lovely and helpful staff. Extraordinary dinner and breakfast. Not to be missed. 🇯🇵
Verified traveler
Beautiful little city! We visited the snow monkeys from 3-5pm checked into the hotel and explored the city the following morning. Loved dinner, breakfast and all the hotsprings in the hotel available for private rentals as well.
David
Great baths and great staff
Staff were very welcoming and helpful throughout the stay. The onsen were a lot of fun. Would absolutely recommend a stay here.
Thomas
Immersive Cultural Experience
Whether you are a first-time or regular ryokan traveler, Kokuya sets the gold standard for comfort, relaxation, and personalized service. The advantages over the many other Shibu-onsen ryokans include its own nine (7 public, 2 private) onsen available to all guests, and some rooms with their own open air private baths for the ultimate bed-to-bath soaking. Add in impeccable \"farm and stream to table\" kaseki-style meals with attentive service just short of pampering, cozy tatami rooms, and strolling the narrow Shibu-onsen lanes in a yukata and geta (or slippers) for an immersive cultural experience. While there is free and ample wifi, you'll likely want to stow your cell phone and let the worries \"back there\" stay there while you explore discoveries of a more inner nature. Nearby are snow monkeys, sake brewery & art gallery, craft shops, and temples. What's not to love?
R
Absolutely beautiful ryokan with beautiful staff. If you are hesitant to book the all inclusive dinner and breakfast , dont be and definitely do it! 11 courses of the most wonderful food and service. Worth every cent! Thankyou for a great japanese experience we wont forget.
Verified traveler
Great experience, amazing staff!
Service was beyond expectation! They picked us up from the station even though we at last minute took a later train. The place is older and the rooms are small, but definitely an authentic experience. They also offer a shuttle to the snow monkey park and took our luggage to a cafe near the station for storage. All in all, would definitely recommend!
LORETTA
We only spent 1 night at Kokuya hotel however I wish we could have stayed longer. We were too shy to make the most of the many private and public onsens available, so we stayed in a room with our own private outside thermal bath which I highly recommend. The staff were fantastic and so accommodating. Without a doubt, they were the nicest I met on my trip.
Amanda
Relaxing Experience, Wonderful Food
We decided to reserve a traditional Japanese ryokan in Shibu Onsen, and we're so glad we did! The welcome tea and explanation of our room was great. Our room had a private hot spring bath. Dining at Kokuya is served Kaiseki style (multiple courses), and all of the food was freshly prepared, beautifully presented, and the staff was exceptional. They went above and beyond to take our luggage to a cafe near the train station and arranged for them to hold it for the day, offered us complimentary ski passes, and went out of their way to make our stay feel special.
The room was very clean, the staff prepared our beds daily, and staying on the traditional mats was a fun experience. It's very different than Western style lodging, but we're so glad we did it!
The room was very clean, the staff prepared our beds daily, and staying on the traditional mats was a fun experience. It's very different than Western style lodging, but we're so glad we did it!
Jorch001
Nice, clean and relaxing
Check in at this Ryokan hotel is easy and fast, the onsen baths are great to rest and relax after a long flight or after days of sight seeing and shopping.
The food is delicious and of good quality, if you want a relaxing time in a traditional Japanese Ryokan hotel this is the way to go.
Staff is great and very cordial and helpfull, if you have never slept in a Futon before I really recomend it its a great new experience.
The food is delicious and of good quality, if you want a relaxing time in a traditional Japanese Ryokan hotel this is the way to go.
Staff is great and very cordial and helpfull, if you have never slept in a Futon before I really recomend it its a great new experience.
Sherry
Luxury at its best!
Best Ryokan exprience of my trip in Japan. The service was excellent and the in-room amenities were so amazing and comfortable. My most favorite is the private open air hot spring which I took advantage of as much as I could. The staff treated us like royalty and the food was excellent.
Location & surroundings
Shibu Onsen Kokuya
2200 Hirao Yamanouchi Shimotakai Gun 381 0401, Yamanouchi, Japan
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Shibu Onsen Kokuya
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