Tokiwatei

The family who run Tokiwatei, kids included, made this stay special. They were welcoming, kind, and ready to help with whatever we needed, and were available every day from 6am to 10pm. The ryokan is traditional and family-run, with great value, clean comfortable rooms, hot baths, and filling Japanese breakfasts that changed a little each day. Its location is hard to beat: the ski slope is a one-minute walk away, with a rental shop right next door, so getting out in the morning was easy and helped us avoid the crowds. Great hosts and a place I’d definitely stay at again. 10/10.

The home-cooked meals were a highlight each day, and coming back to Tokiwatei after skiing and exploring Hakuba felt like coming home. This traditional, peaceful ryokan was clean and cosy, with an authentic Japanese atmosphere. Our family felt welcomed from the moment we arrived, as if we were part of the family. The hosts helped with dinner reservations and train schedules, and even picked us up from the station. Their thoughtful help made family travel feel easy and stress-free. We’d love to return, and highly recommend Tokiwatei to families looking for comfort, warm hospitality, and an authentic Japanese experience.

The rooms have a cute traditional style but are still very practical, and the staff were friendly and incredibly helpful. It’s right by Goryu ski hill and easy to reach other resorts too. One of my favourite places to stay, and I’d happily come back.

We’ve returned several years running for the attentive, friendly service, which has a personal feel rather than a corporate one. It has an old Showa style, with an onsen-style bath house and mostly shared facilities. Breakfast is generous, either Japanese or Asian-style toast, and sets you up for the day. There’s comfortable, dry storage for ski gear, help with lift tickets, and spare goggles or gloves if something goes wrong. Goryu ski area, burger places, pizza, and bars are all within walking distance. What more do you need for a winter trip?