Fukeikan

The hot spring baths were the finest part of the trip, especially the private outdoor ones. In winter, soaking around sunrise with snowy scenery and cold air all around, while the water steamed and warmed you, was wonderful. The tatami rooms were comfortable for relaxing after a bath, and the traditional, rustic hotel looks out over a river-cut valley beside a national park in the mountains above Nagano prefecture. Meals use local ingredients and specialties as much as possible. They're delicious and filling, with several courses, though the range of food might be intimidating for picky eaters. The staff were incredibly polite and did everything they could to meet our needs. This place feels like the ideal hot springs resort, and I can't praise it enough. I fully intend to return to Japan and visit again. Thank you to the hardworking staff of Fukeikan!

We were very impressed with both dinner and breakfast, and the staff's kindness and attention to detail were really heartwarming. The cozy room was warm, too. There are two private baths you can reserve from a dedicated list on a first come, first served basis, where you can enjoy the hot water and nature, as well as a public bath. We had a delightful one-night stay and recommend this place with all our heart.

The staff gave us useful hiking tips and arranged pickups from the ends of our hikes, which was a big help. Both meals were elaborate, with an amazing variety of dishes and flavors to try. It's a lovely setting, and the two outdoor private onsens are nestled among the trees.

The building is very old and perhaps not the prettiest, but the food was incredible and I enjoyed the onsen experience.