Perched at the end of the Nagano Railway line, Yudanaka, a compact hot spring village, has been drawing visitors for over 1,300 years - and Hotel Tsubakino makes a thoroughly likeable base from which to soak it all in. A modern ryokan steps from the station, it pairs traditional Japanese hospitality with rooftop onsen overlooking the Northern Alps, seasonal kaiseki dinners starring Shinshu beef, and easy access to the famous macaques of Jigokudani.
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A mix of Japanese-style tatami rooms with futon bedding and Western-style rooms gives you the freedom to choose your own level of cultural immersion. All are spacious by Japanese standards, simply furnished and spotlessly clean, with mountain views from the upper floors that are stunning on a clear morning. Each room has a private shower and bathroom, plus the essentials – air conditioning, Wi-Fi, kettle and fridge. Some newer rooms come with their own semi-open-air baths fed by the natural hot spring, a particularly nice touch for those who prefer to soak in private.
Soaking in steaming mineral water whilst gazing across snow-dusted peaks (or in winter, watching snowflakes dissolve around you).
Book your private onsen slot at check-in – they fill up fast. The hinoki wood tub is particularly lovely and worth the small extra charge.
English is limited, though the staff are wonderfully creative with Google Translate. It adds to the charm, but brush up on a few Japanese phrases before you go.
Hotel Tsubakino can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Japan trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Japan trips featuring Hotel Tsubakino or get advice and suggestions from one of our Japan specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Hotel Tsubakino start from around $150, or US$150, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Unlock a world of mysterious onsens and mountain pools where wild macaques soak, and truly get away from it all.
