As soon as you arrive, Sakeaya's philosophy of nurturing connections with their guests is evident, beginning with a sweet treat and cup of green tea. From there, you'll be shown around the ryokan including the idyllic, steaming onsen, kept away from prying eyes by a grove of bamboo. This charming spot fits right into Yudanaka, where the onsen culture as been an integral part of daily life for centuries. The Snow Monkey Park is just a few minutes away, where the primates enjoy a soak of their own. In fact, the ryokan's onsen is partially fed by the very same spring.
/138.4315292,36.73465559999999,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
Set along a quiet street in Yudanaka, the Sakaeya Ryokan has a quaint charm mingled with modern tastes. The star of the show is, of course, the semi open-air onsen, which is fed by the vitamin-rich waters of two springs — very soothing on the skin. Colourful yukatat robes are also provided for leisurely strolls in between soaks. The ryokan offers a set Japanese-style menu for breakfast, while dinners are a multi-course kaiseki affair, prepared with ingredients from the Shinshu area.
The Sakaeya Ryokan has a selection of traditional and more modern Japanese-style rooms, the former taking their inspiration from the homes of Northern Nagano with interiors designed by traditional crafters and laid with ornamental silks. Configurations differ but most include a tatami-floor lounge, TV and DVD player, aircon and desk — the perfect place to write the original postcards on offer from the ryokan to send back home. The bathrooms are streamlined and well-appointed with double basins and large rainfall showers.
The Jigokudani Monkey Park is just a short bus ride away, for strolls along snowy paths (in season) to see macaques enjoying a soak in the thermal waters. Depending on the time of year, enjoy the slopes at Japan's largest ski park, wander beneath the cherry blossoms, or hike into the surrounding countryside. This region is also famous for its Soba noodles and learning how to prepare them with a local chef is great fun. There are also a number of other onsens to frequent throughout the town.
The ryokan is set in a fantastic location with a host of fantastic activities on offer — the scenes at the Snow Monkey Park can't be missed.
If you're celebrating whilst at the ryokan, the staff will happily arrange beautiful private dinners and floral arrangements.
There is only one onsen at the ryokan but if you fancy a wider experience, there are plenty of others to enjoy in the town.
Unlock a world of mysterious onsens and mountain pools where wild macaques soak, and truly get away from it all.
