Sakaeya Ryokan
9.4
Exceptional(428 reviews)
2171 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan
+81 269-33-2531
+2
Hotel Description
Sakaeya Ryokan, located in the tranquil town of Hirao in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, is a serene hot spring hotel that offers guests a blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comfort. Situated at 2171 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan, the hotel is just a 15-minute walk from the famous Yudanaka Hot Spring, known for its therapeutic waters and peaceful surroundings. Guests will appreciate the hotel’s rustic charm, with its tatami-floored rooms featuring traditional chabudai dining tables and futons, offering an authentic Japanese experience. The hotel’s simple, polished rooms, many of which come with shared bathrooms, provide a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, while upgraded rooms feature flat-screen TVs and convenient tea and coffee-making facilities.
The Sakaeya Ryokan is well-known for its exceptional amenities, including gender-segregated natural onsen baths, offering an ideal setting to unwind after a day of exploration. Guests can also indulge in the hotel’s restaurant, praised for its excellent service and delicious meals, or take advantage of room service, one of the few such options in the area. The hotel also offers a banquet hall, a sauna, and a spa, ensuring that guests have everything they need for a rejuvenating stay.
Conveniently located, Sakaeya Ryokan is just a short distance from several key attractions. For those interested in nature and wildlife, Jigokudani Monkey Park is only 4 km away, while Mount Higashidate is 17 km from the hotel. Additionally, Shiga Kogen, a renowned ski resort, is a 17-minute drive away, offering winter sports enthusiasts ample opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. The Snow Monkey Park, where guests can observe the famous snow monkeys, is also nearby, making Sakaeya Ryokan a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.
For those interested in dining, several excellent restaurants are located just a short taxi ride away, including Chokkun Izakaya, gonki, Kozushi, 来々軒, and Ramen Tokumi. These establishments offer a variety of cuisine, from traditional izakaya dishes to sushi and ramen, providing guests with a diverse culinary experience.
The hotel is easily accessible from various transportation hubs. Guests can reach the nearby Yudanaka Station by a short 5-minute taxi ride or a 22-minute walk. For those flying into the area, Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport is about an hour and a half away by taxi, while Shibu Onsen and Shibu Wagoi are within walking distance.
Sakaeya Ryokan is committed to ensuring guests’ safety and well-being during their stay. The hotel provides accessible facilities, including wheelchair rental and an elevator, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a comfortable stay. The hotel also offers high-speed Wi-Fi, making it easy for guests to stay connected throughout their visit.
Whether guests are seeking a peaceful retreat in the mountains, a rejuvenating soak in the hot springs, or easy access to outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, Sakaeya Ryokan is the perfect destination. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and top-notch amenities, the hotel provides everything guests need for a memorable stay in the scenic and culturally rich region of Nagano.
Come and experience the unique charm of Sakaeya Ryokan, where tradition meets comfort in a serene, breathtaking setting.
The Sakaeya Ryokan is well-known for its exceptional amenities, including gender-segregated natural onsen baths, offering an ideal setting to unwind after a day of exploration. Guests can also indulge in the hotel’s restaurant, praised for its excellent service and delicious meals, or take advantage of room service, one of the few such options in the area. The hotel also offers a banquet hall, a sauna, and a spa, ensuring that guests have everything they need for a rejuvenating stay.
Conveniently located, Sakaeya Ryokan is just a short distance from several key attractions. For those interested in nature and wildlife, Jigokudani Monkey Park is only 4 km away, while Mount Higashidate is 17 km from the hotel. Additionally, Shiga Kogen, a renowned ski resort, is a 17-minute drive away, offering winter sports enthusiasts ample opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. The Snow Monkey Park, where guests can observe the famous snow monkeys, is also nearby, making Sakaeya Ryokan a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the area.
For those interested in dining, several excellent restaurants are located just a short taxi ride away, including Chokkun Izakaya, gonki, Kozushi, 来々軒, and Ramen Tokumi. These establishments offer a variety of cuisine, from traditional izakaya dishes to sushi and ramen, providing guests with a diverse culinary experience.
The hotel is easily accessible from various transportation hubs. Guests can reach the nearby Yudanaka Station by a short 5-minute taxi ride or a 22-minute walk. For those flying into the area, Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport is about an hour and a half away by taxi, while Shibu Onsen and Shibu Wagoi are within walking distance.
Sakaeya Ryokan is committed to ensuring guests’ safety and well-being during their stay. The hotel provides accessible facilities, including wheelchair rental and an elevator, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a comfortable stay. The hotel also offers high-speed Wi-Fi, making it easy for guests to stay connected throughout their visit.
Whether guests are seeking a peaceful retreat in the mountains, a rejuvenating soak in the hot springs, or easy access to outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, Sakaeya Ryokan is the perfect destination. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and top-notch amenities, the hotel provides everything guests need for a memorable stay in the scenic and culturally rich region of Nagano.
Come and experience the unique charm of Sakaeya Ryokan, where tradition meets comfort in a serene, breathtaking setting.
The Most Outstanding Trait
1. Guests praised the kitchenettes for added convenience and comfort.
2. Guests highlighted the bathrooms for their cleanliness and functionality.
3. Just a 5-minute drive from Jōshin'etsu-kōgen National Park, offering outdoor adventures.
4. One of the few hotels in the area offering room service for guests' convenience.
5. Highly praised for the exceptional service provided by the hotel staff.
6. The hotel’s restaurant is a guest favorite, with delicious meals and a welcoming ambiance.
7. Features one of the few spas in the area, offering relaxation and rejuvenation.
8. The sauna is a unique amenity that adds to the overall comfort and relaxation.
9. Located near key attractions such as Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen Ski Resort.
10. Offers free parking and a local shuttle service for easy travel around the area.
9.2 Exceptional
Location rating
Top sights
Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)
14 min
Shiga Kogen17 min
Shigakogen Hasuike Ski Area17 min
Kusatsu Onsen1 hr 9 min
Ryuoo Ski Park22 min
Nearest locations
Chokkun Izakaya 居酒屋ちょっくん
1 min
gonki1 min
Kozushi1 min
来々軒1 min
Ramen Tokumi1 min
Kaneshin1 min
Motoya1 min
Soba Yariya1 min
See more Interesting locations
Good to know
| Check-in | 15:00 |
| Check-out | 10:00 |
| Location rating | 9.2 |
| Nearest airport | Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport |
| Travel time to airport | 1 hr 30 min |
Nightly price (Only for reference price for sample day)
Check-in: Mon, Nov 18
Check-out: Tue, Nov 19
$350
$295
$300
$295
$331
$349
$353
$441
$395
$390
$367
$367
$367
$420
$409
$409
$412
$420
Recommended properties nearby
Location
2171 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan
Airports:
Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport
Taxi: 1 hr 30 min
Transit: 3 hr 22 min
Transit:
Shibu Onsen
Walking: 1 min
Shibu Wagobashi
Walking: 3 min
Yudanaka Station
Taxi: 5 min
Walking: 22 min
Nearby locations
9.2
Exceptional Location
A 15-minute walk from Yudanaka Hot Spring, this relaxed hot spring hotel is 4 km from wildlife at Jigokudani Monkey Park and 17 km from Mount Higashidate.
Top Attractions
Top Restaurants
Amenities and Facilities
Activities
Banquet hall
Public bath
Public bath
Natural onsen
Open air bath
Water bath
Languages spoken
English
Japanese
Accessibility
Accessible
Accessible elevator
Wheelchair rental
Food & drink
Restaurant
Table service
Room service
No breakfast
Wellness
No fitness center
Massage
Sauna
Spa
Pools
No pools
No hot tub
Rooms
Air conditioning
Kitchen in some rooms
Refrigerator
Microwave in some rooms
Coffee maker in some rooms
Minibar in some rooms
Pets
No pets
Services
Front desk
Baggage storage
Elevator
Wake up calls
Gift shop
Housekeeping
Turndown service
Parking & transportation
Parking
Self parking
Valet parking
Local shuttle
Policies & payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
Cash
Business & events
Meeting rooms
Bathrooms
Private bathroom in some rooms
Bathtub in some rooms
Shower in some rooms
Children
Kid-friendly
Internet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi in public areas
Public internet workstation
Reviews
100% reviews from partners and customers booking on Dinogo
9.8
9 reviews
Wonderful
8
Excellent
1
Good
0
Below Average
0
Not Good
0
秀紀
5/5
The private lounge in the private room was the best. The staff were also nice and nice.
Patrick Huynh
5/5
A Stay Defined by Genuine KindnessMy stay at Shibu Onsen Sakaeya was made unforgettable not only by its beautiful and modern facilities, but by the warmth and attentiveness of the staff—especially Maya Sugawara and Runa.From the moment we arrived, Maya welcomed us with genuine hospitality. She greeted my family and me at the entrance and personally guided us to our rooms. Later, at dinner, we had a lovely encounter with Maya when we asked about a particular item on our plate. She repeated the word “kuri” and, though she couldn’t recall the English word, she excused herself and quickly returned with the translation: chestnut. It was a moment that might have embarrassed her, but it came across as sweet and endearing to me. Her effort to bridge the language gap was a charming display of her kindness.As dinner progressed, Maya was replaced by Runa, who was elegant and thoughtful. The highlight of the dinner for me and my father was the local trout. Having fished together often when I was younger, the dish was a wonderful throwback to cherished memories.At breakfast the next day, there was another heartwarming moment when my dad had trouble removing the paper wrap around the chopsticks. Runa, with a quiet grace, noticed this and quickly took the chopsticks, removing the adhesive for him. To some, it may seem like a minor gesture, but it made a big impression on me, demonstrating the authenticity of Sakaeya's hospitality.While the modern facilities at Sakaeya are top-notch and its aesthetic soothing, what truly sets this place apart is the genuine kindness of its staff. In an era where hospitality can sometimes feel impersonal, finding such warmth is a rarity. I cannot recommend Shibu Onsen Sakaeya enough, and it’s largely because of people like Maya and Runa who made our stay feel comfortable as foreigners.I would also recommend visiting Sakaeya's website where the employees have written their back stories. They detail their aspirations, personal struggles and how they came to work at the onsen. Fun read!
YUK OKA
5/5
Visited for sauna purpose.Reserved for 100 minutes from 8:30am.Available for both men and women.A room called [Forest Healing].main saunaCapa: I think two people is just right.Sauna mat: cloth type available.Temperature: Just before 90 degrees.Self-rolling possible. When you enter the store, choose your favorite tea from several types and enjoy it. This smells very nice.water bathCapacity: 2 peopleTemperature: About 18 degrees.There is an ice machine, so you can keep it cold.The water flows down from above like a waterfall, and it feels great.There was a hot spring bath next door, which was also nice.Outdoor air bath spacechair type・Infinity chair: 2There is also a bed, and it feels very comfortable to lie down here.AmenitiesShampoo: YesConditioner: YesBody soap: YesFace soap: YesLotion: YesOthers: Hair dryer available.They also have great drinks, shaved ice machines, and syrups.staffAs it is a long-established inn, the woman was beautiful and I was impressed by her excellent customer service. The response was good in the past.This quality costs less than 10,000 yen, so the cost performance is really good.The only thing I'm dissatisfied with is the short tears.Each frame is 100 minutes long, so 2 frames is really long lolI would like to increase the amount by 1,000 to 2,000 and extend the time by just 10 to 20 minutes.
Luke Foulds
5/5
Our visit to Sakaeya Ryokan was as tranquil as it was magical. Eating in at the Ryokan, I enjoyed some of the best and most interesting cuisine of my life. After the hustle and bustle of crowded Japanese cities, Sakaeya was the perfect getaway. The staff were so friendly and welcoming, and many were happy to speak English with us. It was an expensive stay, but I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.
野良豚野郎
5/5
We stayed here for the last time in September.In addition to visiting Togakushi Shrine, I also wanted to stay at Shibu Onsen, which I had noticed in a magazine, so I did some research and came across Sakaeya, which has a good reputation.As mentioned in everyone's posts, I became a fan of the warmth of the staff, the food, the hot springs, and the atmosphere of Shibu Onsen's hot spring town.I received a call a few days before my stay and suggested an upgrade to my room, but since there is a large public bath and I can go around to the outside baths, I thought it would be okay to not have a bath in the room, but I took the opportunity to do so. So I askedThis was a big hit, and since we love hot springs, we soaked in the open-air bath in our room as many times as time allowed.There were many types of water and alcohol in the refrigerator, so I was glad I didn't have to buy them at the convenience store.There was a rest area on the floor of the public bath where you could relax and drink coffee etc.It was a trip with so much going on that I didn't think there was enough time.It's a place you'll want to go to again and again.
木霊【ver.2.0】
5/5
I stayed in the ``Yu Takeizumikyo'' room with a half-board plan. (The following reviews are based on stays in October 2024)When I entered the entrance at 3pm, it was crowded, but I was shown to my room and checked in.After filling out the accommodation card, a staff member came to explain the facility. Dinner time will also be asked at this time and will be set every 15 minutes between 17:30 and 18:30. It took about 10 minutes to complete all the procedures from the entrance, but since I was shown in my room, I was able to relax.The rooms are kept clean and have plenty of amenities. Air purifiers were available in the rooms and throughout the building.The large public bath had an open-air bath and an indoor bath. Also, the highly concentrated carbonated spring had an interesting sensation of small bubbles clinging to my body. I was able to take a long bath at around 40 degrees Celsius, and my skin became smooth. There was also a baby bath for babies, with Pigeon shampoo and body wash. Even small children can enjoy the hot springs. I sweat a lot, so I was happy that there were plenty of towels in the changing room and that I could change my yukata at the front desk.Dinner was a creative Japanese meal with about 20 dishes. All the dishes were delicious and I was able to enjoy them beyond just my taste buds. There was also a wide variety of additional menu items, including local dishes (soba, horse sashimi). (I couldn't order additional menu items because I was full)I finished eating dinner in about 1 hour and 45 minutes.Breakfast is also scheduled every 15 minutes between 7:30 and 8:30. (I was asked this at the end of dinner) At check-in, you can choose between Western or Japanese food.There were 13 Japanese dishes and 16 Western dishes. Most of the items are Western, but the menu is light. Japanese food is luxurious and will make you feel good from the morning. At the end, I was able to choose a drink from coffee, tea, or apple juice, and since it's all about Nagano prefecture, I chose apple juice. It's refreshing and delicious.As for customer service, the staff had wonderful smiles. It will heal you and give you energy. I was also happy that people other than the staff in charge called me by my last name. (I think it's easy to remember because of his distinctive appearance...lol)There were other details as well. They held the elevator doors open for me and held up curtains to make it easier for me to pass. The level of hospitality of the staff is high.Check out in no time. (The last time is 10 o'clock, but it seems that you can extend it.) After seeing you off, we head back home. I had a great time for my mind and body! thank you very much.
うとうめぐみ
5/5
The facility had just been renovated, so it was very clean and well-maintained.The staff were very attentive and made me feel very welcome.Of course the hot springs were great, but the food was amazing and I enjoyed not only the taste but also the appearance.I would like to stay again when visiting Shibu Onsen.
tommy hi
4/5
I used it at the private sauna "Mori no Iyashi". It was fully booked, so I waited about a month to visit.We also took a hyperbaric oxygen capsule before the sauna. It's a spaceship-like capsule that you can enter for 30 minutes, but it's a place that people who are claustrophobic or who don't like their ears ringing due to changes in atmospheric pressure may not be able to enter.I don't have either of those things, so I had no problem and spent 30 minutes looking at my smartphone, which was allowed to be brought in. As for the effects...well, I think there are some, but maybe I'm just being insensitive to them, especially the effects like ``The high concentration of oxygen makes your body feel lighter'' or ``It makes you sweat when you're in the sauna!'' I never felt it.I wonder if the guest room has been remodeled for the private sauna? The sink, toilet, changing room, bathroom, sauna room, semi-indoor sofa, and outdoor bath space were all compactly arranged.The capacity is 4 people, but I think 2 people is appropriate.Connect to the speaker with Bluetooth and play your favorite music and go to the sauna! A solid high temperature sauna is good! You can also make a self-lowering tea using tea bag-style herb-infused water and be able to raise the temperature even further, which is very satisfying.The herbal water has quite a scent, so I almost choked on it💦The cold bath next to the sauna looks like regular tap water, but you can add ice from the freezer to lower the temperature, which is great!After the cold bath, prepare yourself in the outdoor bathing space where a semi-indoor sofa or infinity chair is provided.However, the semi-indoor sofa also serves as a passageway to the outdoor bathing space, so it's a bit difficult to move around, and I think it's difficult to hit your head if you don't bend over, but the space is limited. I can't help it.I made my own shaved ice using a shaved ice machine and ate it while taking a bath, which was fun even outside of the sauna.In addition to a wide range of amenities, sauna hats and ponchos are also available, so you can come empty-handed.What I thought after using the 1/100th frame this time was, ``100 minutes is not enough!''Since it's the first time, it takes a lot of time just to check various things like "Wow, I have this!", and it's quite exhausting to go to the sauna, take a bath, and get dressed within 100 minutes 💦In the end, I didn't have time to dry my hair and my head was all wet. I ended up having to leave the room.I don't think 100 minutes is a problem if you are using it as a private amusement, but if you want to fully enjoy the sauna, you will need 2 sessions of 200 minutes! I thought.Next time I thought I would make a reservation for 2 frames.It's a shame that you can only pay in cash, and the road is extremely narrow, but I would like to go again.
岩間幸弘（アンピナ）
5/5
First of all, it was "excellent".The food, the hot springs, the guest rooms, and the waiter's attitude toward customer service were all so wonderful that I can't express them in words.I highly recommend it.