Hakuba Onsen Ryokan Shirouma-so

We didn’t stay overnight, but visited this onsen twice during our recent Hakuba trip, and it was a real highlight. The private onsen was very reasonably priced. It could fit around ten people snugly, but we had the whole space to ourselves. Shin and Hiro were especially kind and helpful, and the rest of the staff were very welcoming. It’s in a great location, and the experience was cosy, relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable. We’d absolutely recommend this onsen to anyone visiting Hakuba.

The rooms were large and comfortable, and the bus terminal is about a five-minute walk away. There’s no shower in the room, but shared showers nearby are open 24 hours. Breakfast was alright, though I’d have preferred a buffet or the option to order, since you can’t choose what they serve each day. The staff were very nice and mostly able to speak English with us. They’ll store luggage, but it’s really just left in a corner of the lobby. Ski equipment storage includes locks. I wish I’d known before the trip which rental agency they work with, since they can return the gear for you. We didn’t use that service and had to walk it back ourselves. Loud kids ran through the annex hallways at 6:30am and woke us up, though that wasn’t necessarily the hotel’s fault.

Booking online was easy compared with some nearby hotels. The staff were always happy to help, and the facilities include a hot spring, dry room and ski storage. The location in the valley is great, about three minutes from the bus centre and information desk, with ski rentals next door.

Dinner at the ryokan was a highlight. We had a great shabu shabu meal on our last night, and there are plenty of restaurants nearby in Hakuba too. Shirouma So has lovely traditional rooms with mountain views, and the staff made us feel right at home. The onsen was just what we needed after skiing, and breakfast came beautifully presented each morning. Best wishes from Sweden, and thank you for a wonderful stay!