Hotel Tsubakino

We originally booked because it was close to Snow Monkey Park and had a rooftop private onsen we could reserve. We were already happy with that, but the staff, dinner, breakfast and free saki bar made the stay even better. The staff are so sweet, and the bus stop is a few minutes’ walk away, with buses going directly to the park. We hadn’t realised you could choose to wear a Yukata, a casual cotton robe with a simple sash, after baths, to dinner or around the building. We did, and it really felt like we were immersing ourselves in Japanese culture. The outdoor private onsen around 4pm in winter was a real treat, with a perfect sunset, then darkness, and an honestly bar with wine and local craft beers. Dinner was amazing, and we loved the generous Japanese-style breakfast. The free saki bar is available every night, with up to six glasses each included in the stay. There’s also a Nespresso machine available all day, and green tea in the room each day. Absolutely wonderful. Book it, you won’t regret it.

Hotel Tsubakino is in a great spot, just a few minutes’ walk from Yudanaka station, and the onsen was fantastic. The rooms are surprisingly spacious compared with Tokyo, and the service is friendly. I messaged them through Booking.com about vegetarian meals. We had the best breakfast and dinner here. Chef Ichimura is a master! One thing to know: a Japanese-style room means sleeping on futons, so check the description and photos if you want a bed. We highly recommend the hotel.

We loved our stay at Hotel Tsubakino in Yudanaka. It’s only a few minutes from the station, and there’s free parking for guests. Our room was very spacious, with a comfortable western bed, a Nespresso machine, tea set and complimentary sweets. The private bath had natural onsen water, and with the window open, we could enjoy the warm water and the view, almost like being in an outdoor bath. The food was outstanding. Dinner was a beautifully prepared kaiseki meal with several courses and excellent ingredients. Breakfast was traditional Japanese, with rice, miso soup, pickles, salad and a warm dish served in a hot pot. Dining in private rooms made for a calm, authentic atmosphere. There are public baths for men and women included in the stay, a rooftop private onsen you can reserve for a small fee, and some rooms have their own bath. The onsen water is excellent and very gentle on the skin. The staff were extremely kind and attentive. Their English was limited, but they made every effort to communicate, even using small picture cards to explain the dishes. A truly authentic Japanese onsen hotel with wonderful food and hospitality.

A very good ryokan, only a few minutes’ walk from the station. They even offer a shuttle bus, though for me the distance was close enough that it felt unnecessary. The service and food were good. The indoor onsen was too hot for me, but the outdoor one was about right. If you like a high-temperature onsen, try the indoor bath.