Wanoyado Nagumo

The outdoor baths were a highlight. There are about three close by, so you can visit whenever you like, and I came back warm and relaxed, with the day's tiredness gone. The inn has an indoor bath as well, though I found the outdoor ones more fun when there's time. We were four friends on a ski trip in early February and had a roomy bedroom. This is a small family-run inn with a welcoming feel, and reservations are phone-only, so it seems like many guests are regulars. Dinner on the first night and breakfast the next morning were made with lots of local ingredients, and there was about twice as much food as the photos suggested. It tasted delicious and reminded me how nice home cooking is. It's about a five-minute walk from the bus stop, easy enough even with skis. The inn doesn't have every amenity you'd find in a hotel, but they supplied disposable shampoo, conditioner, body soap, and bath towels. I'd bring my own skincare. We had a really fun stay, and I appreciated the warm welcome over our two days.

The food alone felt well worth the price. Dinner and breakfast were both delicious Japanese home-style meals, and the inn's a good choice if you're here for the hot springs and sightseeing. It's a little away from central Nozawa, but handy for visiting the outdoor baths. There's parking in front, though the narrow, sloping entrance may be tricky for a large car like an Alphard or a low-profile vehicle. I stayed by myself in a clean, spacious room. The walls are thin, though, and I could clearly hear a party late at night. The parents were friendly and made a good impression. They accommodated my somewhat early arrival and changed the breakfast time, both of which helped. I do wish they offered transport to the ski resort. The bath is heated, and guests take turns using it by putting up a sign. Thanks for the hospitality, I had a lovely time.

The inn is small and family-run, and it had the warm feeling of going back to my parents' home. The owners were so welcoming, and the meals made with their homegrown vegetables were generous. I was full after both breakfast and dinner. Their homemade Nozawana was delicious, and when I asked for more, they happily brought me some. We used Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, and the slopes were close. They also gave us a ride. The location made it easy to visit the hot springs. It was my birthday that day, and the landlady surprised me with a present. That made the stay a really happy memory. I'll come back next year. Thank you!

It's a traditional guesthouse, and the breakfast is great, though possibly a bit too filling if you're heading out to ski in the morning. They have a drying room, and the owners are a lovely grandpa and grandma. It's mainly family-run. Their eldest son works during the week, so the family is only home on weekday evenings. You can shower in the guesthouse bathroom or while you're at the spa. After 10 PM, no one can enter or leave, though in a hot spring town you probably wouldn't be out that late. If you don't speak Japanese, communication may take a little time.