Finally, you got the chance to visit Nara. But now you’re wondering where you should stay. No worries, I’ve got you covered here with the best ryokans in Nara!

Nara, the historic charm of Japan, features a plethora of attractions to lure the history buffs. And attractions aside, its diversity of accommodation options is also worth mentioning. Here, you get to book lavish hotels, alluring waterfront accommodations, and more. But the highlight remains the Nara ryokans, as touring Japan and not enjoying the experience of ryokan is something you will regret for the rest of your life, especially in a city as culturally rich as Nara!

If you think the same and want to learn about the best ryokan to book in Nara and near Nara, this guide is for you. We’ll dive deeper into the 10 best ryokan in Nara, exploring the key details of each to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!

Asukasou

Rating: 4.4

Price: $130-150

Official Website: https://www.asukasou.com/english/

Book On: Booking.com

First on the list is Asukasou! Nestled in the heart of a Japanese city, Asukasou is a traditional Japanese-style inn. It’s located just an 18-minute walk from JR Nara station and offers both the typical Japanese futons and Western beds.

The highlights of the rooms include the Tatami mats, exotic wooden furnishing, and the traditional shoji sliding doors, adding a touch of Japanese vibe. And amenities here are worth drooling over. You get to pamper yourself when enjoying massage services, diving into the on-site public baths, or enjoying the privacy in the exclusive family bath.

The best part? At Asukasou, you can dip your hands in a mouthwatering multi-course kaiseki dinner by booking a Japanese-style guest room. But that’s not all!

This ryokan is situated near the top tourist attractions, including the utterly famed Nara Park, where you get to play with Japanese deer and explore the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage site, Kofukuji Temple! Other attractions can be easily accessed via transportation facilities accessible in close proximity.

What Guests Have to Say?

“It was really fin staying here, especially the public bath on rooftop was worth it. We booked a tatami-room and it was way to expansive than we thought with a scenic garden view – all what we needed for a perfect stay!”

View more on TripAdvisor

Tsukihitei Nara

Rating: 4.5

Price: $150-180

Official Website: http://www.nara-ryoutei.com/tsukihitei/en/

Book On: Booking.com

If you want to enjoy your Nara tour when staying close to nature, I’d suggest booking this ryokan right away! Located in the Kasugayama Primeval Forest, Tsukihitei is just 400 meters away from the renowned attraction, Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Other close attractions, including Todaiji Temple and the JR Nara Train Station and Kintetsu Nara Train Station, are also a 10-minute drive away, offering you easy access to the city landmarks.

Coming to the rooms, each of them is well-adorned with traditional Japanese theme styling. You get to enjoy futon bedding, shoji screens, woven-straw floors, and, in short, all that you have to see and cherish in that charming Doraemon house.

Other amenities include en suite bathrooms, a refrigerator, a hair dryer, and all the amenities one could wish to get. Including amenities the ryokan included for women customers: milky lotion, cleaning milk, facial lotion, and make-up remover.

It doesn’t end at this; the food here offers another level of experience. From Japanese-style breakfast to the set meal course dinner, you will drool over both meals.

What Guests Loved the Most?

“We booked Sakura, the largest bedroom in the ryokan and let me admit it was just amazing. We got excellent amenities and everything from hospitality to room service contributed to making our staying experience worthwhile.”

Mikasa Hotel Nara

Rating: 3

Price: $90-100

Official Website: http://www.naramikasa.com/lg_en/

Book On: Booking.com

If you are someone who always enjoys excellent views, I’m sure Mikasa Hotel Nara is the ryokan that you should consider booking. The beautiful building of the ryokan stands on Mt. Wakakusa’s slopes. From here, you can overview the entire city of Nara at a scenic glance. Moreover, it has easy access to the popular city highlights, including Kyoto and other major cities, such as Osaka.

Offered room types are three: Rooms with Open-air Batch, Rooms with a View, and Standard Rooms. You can enjoy ceramic open-air batches, a private cypress, and a well-set terrace with seating. Amenities are toilet utilities, yukatas, and bath robes. Besides rooms, Mikasa has got two bathhouses: Tempyo no Yu and Komyo no Yu.

Coming to the cuisine, we have multiple options here. For the main dinner, you get to enjoy a course of kaiseki-ryori meal, Iga Beef, Hotpot Cooking, and more such Japanese dishes.

What Guest Loved the Most?

“I have experienced living in multiple accommodation, as I visit Japan often. But Mikasa was something that hit me differently. Their delish menu, amazing facilities at bathhouses and worth mentioning guest room amenities were the reasons why.”

Kotonoyado Musashino

Rating: 4.7

Price: $300-400

Official Website: https://www.kotonoyado.com/

Book On: Booking.com

Next, we have one of the most historic ryokans of Nara, Kotonoyado Musashino! On stepping inside, you will feel like you are time traveling back into ancient Japan. Every detail, from the thoughtful decor and wooden flooring to the tatami mats, will add to make your stay even more enjoyable.

What sets it apart from other ryokans is the welcoming greeting by the well-trained staff and the welcoming tea service and floral arrangements that are enough to give you insights into how amazing time you will spend there. After that, you will be given Yukata, traditional Japanese clothing, to put on before entering the exotic guest room.

Other highlights are the public and private onsen with amazing amenities. These are where you can relax for a while while getting rid of all life worries that are stressing you out. The cuisine of this ryokan features delectable delicacies that ensure a fine dining experience. This ryokan is located near the Todaiji bell, so you can hear it ringing when enjoying the stunning sunset views. Just imagine how alluring it would be!

What Guests Have to Say?

“Their services are unexpected, especially the Kimono services for women and the cuisine is also delectable.”

Ando Hotel Nara Wakakusayama

Rating: 4.2

Price: $200-210

Official Website: https://andohotelnara.com/en/

Book On: Booking.com

Another spot with one of the three most picturesque night views of the entire city, Nara! The beautiful landscape of the Ando Hotel blends perfectly with the Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Mt.Wakakusayama.

Regarding the room types, we have multiple options: twin bedrooms, double bedrooms, suites, and even family rooms. Each room features a 50-inch LED, a minibar, and picture-perfect views. The bath experience is also unforgettable, with the rooftop baths and public paths.

Ando Hotel also offers unique experiences for their guests, including Night Sky Tours, Fishing, Firewood Chopping, and Bonfires. Lastly, ryokan’s cuisine revolves around a mixture of traditional delicacies with a modern twist.

What Guests Loved About This Place?

“I am always behind night views and delish cuisine and this ryokan served me the best of both things. I highly recommend Ado Hotel for your Nara adventures!”

Wakasa Bettei

Rating: 4.2

Price: $200-250

Official Website: https://wakasa-bettei.com/lg_en/

Book On: Booking.com

Just a 10-minute walk from the north side of Kintetsu Nara Station, you come across a spectacular ryokan building adorned with the name Wakasa Bettei. In total, there are 12 guest rooms with attached baths. Depending on the room you choose, you can also get semi-open-air baths, open-air baths, and even baths made from hinoki cypress.

Out of all the things, this Nara ryokan has private onsen features; the best part is the fourth floor, where you can enjoy picture-perfect vistas of the Great Buddha Hall and Mount Wakakusayama.

Moreover, the meal here is also well-loved by the guests. It’s actually a Yamato Kaiseki meal that’s served in private or semi-private rooms as per your instructions. Everything about the meal is amazing, be it the delectable taste, or the tempting presentation.

Nearby highlights include the Nara Prefectural Museum of Art, government landmarks, and Todai-ji Temple.

What Guests Have to Say?

“The best thing about my stay here is the hospitality that I found appreciable. Their meals were also drool-worthy. The batch experience, I haven’t enjoyed such a calming time anywhere else. It was worth the money for sure.”

Kasuga Hotel

Rating: 4.2

Location: 630-8213 Nara, Nara, Noborioji-cho 40 , Japan

Price: $200-300

Official Website: https://www.kasuga-hotel.co.jp/en/

Book On: Booking.com

Here we have another one of best ryokan in Nara, the Kasuga Hotel. It’s nestled in the beautiful city of Nara within walking distance from Kintetsu Nara Station.

Kasuga Hotel offers different accommodation options for guests: a standard Room with authentic Japanese accommodation vibes, a Japanese-style room with an open-air bath featuring a cozy and expansive atmosphere, and lastly, a Japanese-style and Western-style room with an open-air bath. In the third category, rooms, you can choose between tatami mat or western bedding.

Here, you get to enjoy two different bath adventures: an open-air bath with picturesque landscape views and a public bath with an open-air bath and waterfall-like baths.

Kasuga Hotel is located at the city’s most convenient place. From here, you can access both the inter and intra-city attractions with ultimate ease.

What Guests Have to Say About It?

“Overall we enjoyed staying here. What my partner loved the most was the quick responsive room service and the authentic Kaiseki Cuisine meal they offered us.”

Sarusawaike Yoshidaya

Rating: 4.1

Price: $250-300

Official Website: https://www.nara-yoshidaya.co.jp/lp/reserve_en/

Book On: Booking.com

Facing the Sarusawa-like Pond, Sarusawaike Yoshidaya can be your go-to ryokan in Japan if you love waterfront views. This place is where modern and ancient Japanese living styles got mixed up. Some rooms boast wooden flooring, and others the tatami one. The bedding is also Western style, with some beds being lowered to add a welcome twist.

Each room features a private bathroom with a plethora of amenities, including futons, wall paintings, and more. The Japanese cuisine delicacies they serve are prepared especially with the seasonal spices and tempting presentation. However, the menu is specific for each room type.

The attractions in proximity include all the renowned sites of the city within just 20 minutes walking distance. To name a few, we have Kohfukuji Temple, Tōdaiji Temple, and Kasugataisha Shrine.

What Guests Loved About This Place?

“This ryokan is at ideal location, perfect for sightseeing, their staff was super attentive, rooms were spacious, and the food was also excellent.”

Tsubakiso

Rating: 4.6

Price: $180-190

Official Website: https://tubakisou.net/about-tsubakiso_2.html

Book On: Booking.com

Built back in the 1930s, Tsubakiso is a historic ryokan located near Todaiji temple, Nara Park, and Kasuga Shrine. Moreover, the Kintetsu Nara station is only 5 minutes away. In short, this ryokan is at a prime location with convenient access to popular attractions.

Accommodation options on offer are twin rooms and apartments. Rooms here are pretty expansive, with a focus on each and every detail. The main highlights are the futon bedding, tatami flooring, LCD, air humidifier, a low table with floor cushions, and more.

The best part about this ryokan is the owner-made breakfast. Either Japanese style or Western, the breakfast delicacies cooked with love and perfection will surely leave you licking your fingers.

What Guests Have to Say?

“Overall stay was worth it. We loved the breakfast owner cooked for us and enjoying our breakfast with stunning views used to be the must activity in the morning.”

Ryokan Kosen Kazeya Group

Rating: 3.7

Price: $70-100

Official Website: https://www.ryokan.com.hk/h otel/jp/ryokan-kosen.en-gb.html

Book On: Booking.com

Last but not the least. If you are looking for a ryokan on a budget, I recommend checking out this one! It’s located just a 6-minute walk from the famed Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Kosen offers three room types: Twin Room, Quadruple, and Triple Room, with LCD TV, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and more.

It also features a hot public bath where you can have fun relaxing and chatting with other guests. Coming to the meals, every day, a set-menu Japanese-style breakfast is served either in your guest room or dining room.

Nearby attractions are the Kofukuji Shrine, Nara National Museum, Todaiji Temple, and Isuien Garden.

What Guest Love the Most About This Ryokan?

“It’s hard to mention only a few things, as my stay was overall amazing. I enjoyed dipping in the hot baths, enjoying delish breakfast, and the room service is also excellent with polite staff members.”

I still remember my first trip to Nagano. I went to Tangram Ski Circus, a ski resort in Shinano, and stayed at Barton Hotel. After a long day on the slopes, soaking in an onsen was the perfect way to relax. In Nagano, the combination of hot onsen water, crisp air, and surrounding nature makes the experience unforgettable.

It’s not just the onsen that make Nagano special. The region is famous for its snowy mountains, 80 ski resorts, Jigokudani Monkey Park, charming rural villages, breathtaking landscapes. And among these, you’ll find traditional Japanese inns, known as ryokan, that offer the perfect setting for a peaceful getaway. Some ryokan take the experience even further by offering private onsen, where you can enjoy a relaxing soak in complete privacy.

So if you’re planning a trip to Nagano, here are 10 ryokan with private onsen that promise an unforgettable experience, sorted by budget range.

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Quick Comparison: Ryokan with Private Onsen in Nagano

Ryokan	Location	Starting Price (for two adults)	Private Onsen Option	Unique Features	Link
Kamesei Ryokan	Chikuma (Togura-Kamiyamada)	~¥11,000	Free reservable outdoor bath	Foreign-friendly, cultural activities	Booking.com
Wafu-no-Yado Masuya	Yudanaka Onsen	~¥22,000	Some rooms w/ private bath + reservable outdoor bath	Elegant, very kind staff	Booking.com
Ryokan Warabino	Takayama Village (rural)	~¥23,000	4 private baths (no booking needed)	Secluded, farm-to-table cuisine	Booking.com
Ryokan Biyu no Yado	Yudanaka Onsen	~¥25,000	Rooftop private bath (paid)	4 onsen types, English-speaking staff	Booking.com
Shibu Onsen Yumoto Ryokan	Shibu Onsen (central)	~¥33,000	Reservable outdoor bath (40 min slots)	Edo-period inn, very affordable	Agoda
Aburaya Tousen	Yudanaka Onsen	~¥40,000	Some rooms w/ private bath + reservable baths	Stylish, rooftop bar, 11 bath types	Booking.com
Shibu Onsen Kokuya	Shibu Onsen	~¥43,000	Some rooms w/ private bath + 2 reservable baths	Historic, 9 bath types, amazing meals	Booking.com
Ichinoyu Katei	Shibu Onsen	~¥45,000	Free private bath (40 min slots)	Small, very quiet, great service	Booking.com
Kanbayashi Senjukaku	Near Snow Monkey Park	~¥52,000	One reservable private bath	Imperial guests, indoor pool, snow garden views	Booking.com
Seni Onsen Iwanoyu	Suzaka (rural, remote)	~¥90,000	5 unique private baths (free access)	True luxury, artistic dining, mountain retreat	IKYU

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Kamesei Ryokan (Affordable)

• Best for: Travelers who want a culturally immersive, foreigner-friendly ryokan outside the tourist areas
• Price range for two adults: ¥11,000—¥30,000

Kamesei Ryokan sits in the quiet onsen town of Togura-Kamiyamada, about 30 minutes south of Nagano City. This family-run inn has gained a reputation for its warm hospitality, mostly thanks to Tyler, the American-born third-generation innkeeper who runs it with his Japanese wife. If you’re intimidated by staying in a traditional Japanese ryokan or worried about communication, this is a great place to start. The atmosphere is down-to-earth, casual, and welcoming, like visiting a friend’s home.

The rooms are traditional, with tatami floors, futon bedding, and sliding doors, but the vibe isn’t overly formal. Some rooms have private toilets, others share. The ryokan is an older wooden structure, which means some creaks and thin walls, but it’s clean, charming, and thoughtfully maintained. You’ll also find small touches like retro Japanese art and hand-picked antiques in the hallways, adding to the nostalgic Showa-era feel.

Kamesei’s highlight is the outdoor private onsen, the Shinano-buro, which you can book for free. It’s a cozy rock-lined tub set in a quiet garden and is especially atmospheric in the snow. Booking is simple — just reserve your time slot at the front desk and enjoy the space to yourself. There are also public indoor baths for men and women, and the onsen water here is slightly sulfuric, famous for its silky effect on the skin.

Meals are a mix of home-style kaiseki and local specialties like apple-fed pork, mountain vegetables, and handmade miso soup. Breakfast includes items like grilled fish and local fruit, and portions are generous. Meals are served in a communal dining area, but Tyler and his team go out of their way to explain dishes and chat with guests, which many remember as a highlight.

Kamesei also offers something you won’t find at most ryokan: cultural activities. Depending on availability, you might be invited on a bike tour around town, join a taiko drum demonstration, or even catch a local geisha performance. Tyler sometimes drives guests to scenic spots around the town or the nearby mountains. These experiences aren’t guaranteed, but they reflect the ryokan’s unique strength: genuine hospitality and personal interaction.

This isn’t the place to go if you want ultra-modern amenities or elegant dining. But if you’re open to meeting your hosts, chatting with other travelers, and soaking in a more personal kind of onsen experience, Kamesei offers something truly memorable, especially at this price point.

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Wafu-no-Yado Masuya (Mid-range)

• Best for: Travelers who want comfort and elegance without straying too far from tradition
• Price range for two adults: ¥22,000—¥70,000

Wafu-no-Yado Masuya is a well-regarded ryokan in Yudanaka Onsen that balances tradition and comfort with quiet sophistication. It’s not flashy, but everything is just right: calm rooms, refined food, polished service. It’s a good choice if you want a proper ryokan experience with a bit of style, but without breaking the bank.

The ryokan is family-run, and the staff are known for being genuinely kind and attentive. English is spoken to some extent, but more importantly, the team goes out of their way to make you feel welcome, explaining the meals, helping with transport, and accommodating requests where possible.

Rooms are clean and classically styled. They have four rooms with open-air baths on the balcony though even the standard rooms feel peaceful and well-cared for. You can also book a private outdoor bath on-site, free of charge. The public indoor bath area is smaller than in some larger ryokan, but well-maintained and rarely crowded.

The food here is one of the highlights. Dinner is served kaiseki-style, featuring local Shinshu beef, mountain vegetables, and seasonal dishes. The presentation is beautiful, but not overdone. It feels like dining at a good countryside restaurant rather than a formal hotel. Breakfast follows a similar approach: thoughtful, balanced, and filling, with rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and small sides. Meals are usually served in private rooms or semi-private areas, depending on the room plan.

Masuya is a 7-minute walk from Yudanaka Station, with a shuttle available by request. It’s close enough to reach the Snow Monkey Park in 15–20 minutes, but far enough to avoid the usual tourist traffic. The ryokan is also part of the Yudanaka-Shibu onsen area, so you can walk to a few public baths nearby if you want to explore further.

In short, Masuya is great for people who want a comfortable, quiet, and traditionally run ryokan with little luxuries like private baths and good food, but don’t necessarily need the most upscale or remote setting. It’s ideal for a first or second ryokan stay where you want to feel looked after but still enjoy your space.

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Ryokan Warabino (Affordable)

• Best for: Couples or solo travelers looking for a quiet mountain getaway
• Price range for two adults: ¥23,000—¥40,000

Ryokan Warabino is a secluded retreat in the hills of Takayama Village, about 40 minutes by car from Nagano. It’s a great option if you want to fully unplug and soak in nature, literally and figuratively. This is not a place for sightseeing-packed itineraries. It’s best suited for travelers who want to stay put, enjoy the onsen, eat well, and rest.

The ryokan has just eight rooms, each with rustic Japanese design and big windows looking out over the forest or valley. Rooms are clean and atmospheric, though not flashy. Some include features like a sunken hearth or small veranda, adding to the mountain-lodge feel.

The standout feature here is the onsen setup. Warabino doesn’t have large public baths. Instead, it offers four private hot spring baths, which are freely available on a first-come basis. No need to book time slots. If the door is unlocked, you’re free to enter and enjoy a quiet soak. Each bath has its own character: some are indoor, others are open-air with views of the trees and sky. Most guests say they never had to wait, even when the ryokan is full.

Meals are served in the dining hall, spaced out for privacy. The cuisine focuses on seasonal, local ingredients, like mushrooms in autumn, hotpots in winter, mountain vegetables year-round. The presentation is refined, but the style is rooted in countryside cooking. You won’t get showy kaiseki here, but the flavors are excellent and portions generous.

Because of its location, there’s not much to do nearby. This is the kind of place where you arrive, take off your shoes, and settle in. The staff are friendly and give you space, though they’re happy to help with logistics like train station transfers if requested in advance.

Warabino is ideal if you want a peaceful ryokan stay with real privacy, especially when it comes to bathing. At this price, getting free access to four private baths and meals of this quality is rare.

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Ryokan Biyu no Yado (Mid-range)

• Best for: A comfortable, all-round onsen experience with English-speaking staff and multiple bath options
• Price range for two adults: ¥25,000—¥90,000

Ryokan Biyu no Yado is a good middle-ground option: large enough to offer solid amenities, small enough to feel relaxed and welcoming. Located in Yudanaka Onsen, it’s about a 10-minute walk from the station, but most guests use the free shuttle. It’s one of the best choices if you’re looking for a ryokan that’s easy to book, comfortable for first-timers, and still delivers on the traditional experience.

The ryokan has 45 rooms, so it’s bigger than many others on this list, which allows it to offer features like a rooftop onsen, a bar lounge, and even occasional cultural performances. While the vibe is a bit more hotel-like with some guests in Western clothing and others in yukata, it still keeps the essence of a ryokan, with tatami mat rooms, futons, and Japanese-style meals.

One of the major draws here is the range of onsen options. There are indoor and outdoor public baths (open 24 hours), a reservable rooftop bath with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and a private family bath you can rent for an extra fee. The water is gentle on the skin, slightly alkaline, and especially nice during winter when the rooftop bath overlooks snow-covered rooftops. Many guests say they never had to wait to use the baths, even during busy periods.

Rooms come in both Japanese and Western styles. You can choose a full tatami room or a hybrid with beds and a low table area. Most rooms have private toilets and showers (though not onsen water), and deluxe rooms may feature jet baths. The interiors are simple but comfortable and well-maintained.

Meals are traditional, served in the dining room, with Nagano specialties like shabu-shabu, local vegetables, and grilled fish. Dinner is set-course and breakfast is either buffet-style or a set menu depending on the number of guests. While the food experience isn’t as intimate as in smaller ryokan, it’s consistent and well-reviewed. There’s also a bar with a good sake selection if you want a drink after your bath.

The staff at Biyu no Yado are one of its strongest points. Many speak English fluently, and they’re used to helping international guests plan visits to the Snow Monkey Park or book ski rentals in winter. The ryokan also runs a morning shuttle to the monkey park trailhead and can arrange tours and local activities upon request.

Overall, Ryokan Biyu no Yado is a great pick if you want variety, comfort, and convenience. It doesn’t try to be ultra-traditional or overly luxurious — instead, it focuses on providing a stress-free onsen stay with just enough cultural depth to feel special. For travelers who want to enjoy Nagano’s hot springs without worrying about language or logistics, this place checks a lot of boxes.

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Shibu Onsen Yumoto Ryokan (Affordable)

• Best for: Budget travelers who want a traditional experience with a private bath
• Price range for two adults: ¥33,000—¥45,000

Yumoto Ryokan is the most affordable ryokan on this list, but don’t let the price fool you. If you want to stay somewhere that feels “local” and don’t need luxury amenities, Yumoto is a great pick.

The building is a classic wooden ryokan: creaky floors, narrow hallways, and tatami rooms with sliding paper doors. Rooms are small and basic with futons on the floor, shared toilets, and minimal decoration, but they’re clean and have that warm, old-Japan atmosphere you don’t get in modern hotels. Most rooms don’t have private baths, but that’s where the private onsen comes in.

Guests can book the outdoor private bath for free, in 40-minute slots. It’s a simple stone bath tucked in a quiet courtyard, surrounded by bamboo fencing and snow in winter. The water comes from the same natural spring as the nearby monkey park, known for its soft, slightly alkaline texture that’s gentle on the skin. There’s also a small public bath inside if you just want a quick soak.

Meals are served in a dining hall and are surprisingly generous for the price. Expect hotpot, grilled fish, seasonal vegetables, miso soup, rice, and local pickles. Nothing fancy, but all homemade and hearty. Breakfast includes rice porridge, egg dishes, and miso soup — enough to keep you full until late afternoon.

The ryokan is located right in the middle of Shibu Onsen, which means you can walk out in your yukata, get your bathhouse stamp booklet, and start exploring the town’s nine historic public baths. Yumoto participates in the local bathhouse key system, so you can try them all if you want.

Service is friendly but informal as this is a small, family-run place, not a polished resort. English may be limited, but the staff are helpful and used to international guests. If you’re planning to visit the snow monkeys, they can help with directions or arrange transport.

For travelers on a tighter budget who still want that classic ryokan experience with private bath included, Yumoto Ryokan is the best-value option in Shibu Onsen.

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Aburaya Tousen (Luxury)

• Best for: Couples or travelers looking for a modern, romantic onsen stay with upscale amenities
• Price range for two adults: ¥40,000—¥110,000

Aburaya Tousen stands out as the most contemporary ryokan in Yudanaka Onsen. While many ryokan lean into their rustic charm, Aburaya goes the opposite way, offering a sleek, design-conscious stay that still respects the core elements of Japanese hospitality. If you want a private onsen with views, elegant rooms, and a rooftop bar to unwind after dinner, this is your place.

Rooms range from standard Western-Japanese hybrids to luxury suites with private open-air baths. The interiors are minimalist and warm, with modern lighting, wood accents, and subtle Japanese touches. Most rooms have separate sitting areas and private toilets. For those splurging, the “Premium” suites come with terraces, oversized baths, and panoramic views of the mountains or town.

Aburaya offers multiple private onsen options. Some rooms have their own baths, and there are also reservable onsen on the top floor with impressive views, perfect at night when the town lights are glowing below. The public baths include both indoor and outdoor options, clean and stylish, though smaller than what you’d find at more traditional ryokan.

The rooftop lounge and bar is a rare feature, offering drinks, snacks, and the kind of relaxed vibe you’d expect at a boutique hotel. It’s a nice option for couples wanting a quiet evening spot after their bath. You’ll also find massage services and optional spa treatments available for booking.

Meals are refined and well-paced, with the option of in-room dining or meals served in semi-private booths. Dinner includes local specialties like wagyu, Shinshu vegetables, and creative takes on Japanese dishes. Breakfast is served as a Japanese or Western set, depending on your preference.

Location-wise, Aburaya is very convenient — just a few minutes’ walk from Yudanaka Station. Shuttle service to the snow monkey park and other local attractions is also available.

If you’re new to ryokan or just prefer modern comforts, this is one of the most accessible yet high-quality options in the area. While it lacks the deep historic charm of some other inns, it makes up for it with privacy, service, and attention to detail. Aburaya is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, design, and a little indulgence without losing the essence of a ryokan stay.

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Shibu Onsen Kokuya (Mid-range)

• Best for: Visitors looking for a rich, classic onsen experience in the heart of a historic hot spring town
• Price range for two adults: ¥43,000—¥100,000

Kokuya is one of the best-known ryokan in Shibu Onsen, and for good reason. It’s been run by the same family for over 400 years, sits in a prime location, and offers a rare level of bath variety. If your main priority is soaking in as many different onsen types as possible, this is the place.

The building is traditional but well-maintained. Rooms are a mix of Japanese and Japanese-Western styles, some with private open-air baths. Even the simpler rooms are spacious for Japanese standards and come with a small seating area. The interiors are not especially modern, but they’re cozy and well-kept. For many guests, the highlight is the wide range of onsen: nine baths in total, two of which can be reserved privately, plus others that alternate by gender. The baths vary in mineral content, temperature, and layout, from cypress wood tubs to rock-lined pools and small cave-like baths. You could easily spend an entire afternoon rotating between them.

Kokuya also participates in Shibu Onsen’s bathhouse key system, so you can explore all nine public bathhouses around the town if you want to go beyond the ryokan. But honestly, many guests end up just staying put because the on-site baths are so good.

Meals are served in-room or in private dining rooms depending on your plan. The cuisine is traditional and seasonal, using local ingredients like Shinshu beef, river fish, and fresh produce. While it’s a bit more formal than some other ryokan, the atmosphere stays relaxed. Breakfast is hearty, with rice, miso, and a spread of small dishes.

The ryokan is located right on the main street of Shibu, which is ideal if you want to stroll in your yukata, visit the local temples, or stop by the local sweets shop. It’s also close to the entrance for the snow monkey park trail, and shuttle service is available.

If you’re looking for a place where onsen variety, history, and location all come together, Kokuya delivers — especially for travelers who want a slightly upgraded experience that still feels deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.

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Ichinoyu Katei (Mid-range)

• Best for: Travelers who want a small, quiet, and traditional ryokan with a private bath 
• Price range for two adults: ¥45,000—¥60,000

Ichinoyu Katei is a boutique ryokan with only 11 rooms, tucked into a quiet side street of Shibu Onsen. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something peaceful, personal, and not too touristy. The vibe is calm and refined, but still relaxed, perfect for couples or anyone who wants to slow down for a night or two.

Rooms are traditional, with tatami floors, futon bedding, and simple alcove decorations. Everything is very clean and well-maintained, with a few modern touches added during recent renovations. The building is compact, so it’s easy to get around, and the staff provide thoughtful service without being overbearing. English is limited, but communication is smooth thanks to helpful printed materials.

There’s a small indoor onsen bath which you can reserve for private use. There are also several outdoor and indoor communal baths, and like all Shibu ryokan, guests receive a key to access the town’s nine historic public baths.

Meals are served in private dining rooms and are one of the highlights. Dinner is a traditional kaiseki-style course meal with items like wagyu, sashimi, tempura, and handmade soba noodles. The breakfast set includes rice porridge, grilled fish, and other local items. The pacing is gentle, and the setting is quiet with no rush, no background noise, just you and the food.

Access is easy via a 7-minute shuttle from Yudanaka Station. Once there, you’re just steps from the charming lantern-lit streets of Shibu. It’s not the most luxurious ryokan, but it’s well-balanced: not too expensive, not too touristy, and with a private bath included in the base rate. If you want a simple, traditional ryokan experience with some personal space and quiet, Ichinoyu Katei delivers.

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Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku (Luxury)

• Best for: Travelers seeking a luxury ryokan experience near the Snow Monkey Park, with a refined and quiet atmosphere
• Price range for two adults: ¥52,000—¥120,000

Senjukaku is the most refined ryokan near the entrance of the Snow Monkey Park, and it has the pedigree to back it up — it’s where the Japanese Imperial family stays when they visit the region. That reputation comes with high expectations, and the ryokan delivers on nearly all of them: peaceful surroundings, excellent food, and a calm, dignified atmosphere that feels a step above.

The building is traditional but spacious, set on a wooded property with carefully manicured gardens. In winter, the snow-covered trees around the outdoor baths make the entire area feel like a private retreat. Rooms are large for Japanese standards, with polished wood floors, tatami spaces, and some suites featuring private gardens or attached baths. Even standard rooms have a sense of quiet luxury.

There’s only one private bath available for reservation, but the main indoor and outdoor public baths are beautiful, surrounded by natural views and impeccably clean. The water comes from the same spring used by the monkeys at nearby Jigokudani, and it’s known for its smooth feel on the skin.

Dinner is kaiseki-style and extremely well-reviewed: not overly experimental, but beautifully crafted with high-end ingredients. Expect seasonal touches like snow crab, matsutake mushrooms, or wagyu beef depending on the time of year. Breakfast is similarly balanced, with both Japanese and Western options available.

Senjukaku doesn’t try to be flashy or trendy. There are no in-room iPads or rooftop bars. Instead, the focus is on stillness, quality, and treating guests with quiet respect. The staff are discreet but attentive, and many speak some English. Service feels personal without ever being overbearing.

The location is perfect if you’re planning to visit the snow monkeys, as the ryokan is just a 5-minute walk from the park trail. Shuttle service to and from Yudanaka Station is available.

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Seni Onsen Iwanoyu (Luxury)

• Best for: Luxury travelers or couples looking for deep relaxation in a remote, high-end setting
• Price for two adults: ¥90,000+

Seni Onsen Iwanoyu is in a different league from the other ryokan on this list, both in starting price and experience. It’s located in the mountains above Suzaka, far from the main tourist routes, and operates more like a hidden sanctuary than a regular inn. If you’re celebrating something or simply want to splurge on one unforgettable night, this is the place.

The ryokan is surrounded by trees and silence. It only has a few suites, each designed with artistic detail (sculpted wood furniture, traditional textiles), private terraces, and deep-soak tubs facing the forest. Some rooms have private onsen, but the real draw is the series of five private bath houses scattered across the property, each free to use and with its own design: rock bath, hinoki tub, panoramic forest view. There’s no need to book a time — just check if the door is open and enjoy.

The food here is as memorable as the setting. Dinner is kaiseki-style but with a modern twist: delicately plated courses, local wagyu, mountain vegetables, and hand-crafted desserts. Ingredients are organic and seasonal, and the service is intentionally slow-paced so you can fully enjoy it. Breakfast is similarly refined, with a mix of Japanese classics and lighter items depending on your preference.

There’s no entertainment, no shops, no bustling lobby. This is a place for quiet. You’re encouraged to spend the evening reading, bathing, or just sitting by the window. Most guests stay only one or two nights and many describe the experience as a reset, both mentally and physically.

It’s worth noting that the location is remote. You’ll need a car or request a pickup in advance, and you likely won’t be leaving once you arrive. But that’s the point. Iwanoyu is meant to be a destination in itself, not a base for sightseeing. For travelers looking for a true escape with privacy, high-end dining, and onsen that feel like art installations, Seni Onsen Iwanoyu is hard to beat. It’s not cheap, but it’s the kind of place you remember for years.

Note as well that Seni Onsen Iwanoyu is extremely hard to book as you will need to reserve months in advance to secure a room.

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Looking for something else? Booking.com has a large selection of ryokan and is usually my go-to platform when booking accommodations in Japan. Enter your preferred date and click the Search button below to search for other ryokans in Nagano: