Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku — Hotel in Yamanouchi

I found this hotel and was convinced it would be a great place to stay for a day in the mountain area and a visit to the Snow Monkey Park. Prices were high, but I got what I thought was a good deal through an online booking site, it was still quite expensive (~750 USD for two night, three persons).

The shuttle waited for us at the station, and we were in high spirits.

That changed quickly when they told us that Snow Monkey Park was closed (since 8/24, yesterday) following an outbreak of Covid in the park 🥲

And then we started to notice details all over the hotel that were disappointing and disturbing: We had been aware that a Ryokan is a traditional old style Japanese hotel, but here literally everything was extremely old and jaded:

Dirty spots on the walls that hadn’t received a fresh coat of paint in many decades, dirty floor in the shower, dirt in the edges around the bathtub, blackened wall above an escape path sign, rugs that were clearly from way back in the last century and give the hotel a smell thar my kids noticed right away.

There is something that could be a bar but instead is where you can get canned beer from a vending machine, as well as coffee (which at least is free of charge).

One large towel per person, no Hand tolles or facecloths, instead dispensers of brown paper towels in both toilet and bathroom - that’s not ecological, that’s cheap.

The receptionist (the one who understands a bit of English) suffered helplessly through my disappointed complaints, gave me three little towels and apologized. No change to a better room was offered (I doubt there is one), no compensation.

In the US I’d want my money back, and would be successful.

Here all I can do is warn other travelers, have a look at the photos I posted, and avoid this place...

Despite the higher price, everything felt like it was worth it.

We took a bus there from Nagano station and had to climb uphill to reach the hotel with our heavy luggage. The moment we stepped inside, they took over everything, giving us a huge sense of relief and a warm welcome. Everything is great, from the continuous impeccable service to the well maintained room and gorgeous views of the scenery outside.

There's even a small corner near the lifts that features the farmer's produce in the morning. The apples and shine Muscat grapes are highly recommended.

We opted to include the breakfast and dinners in our reservation and were surprised by the experience. It's not a buffet as one might expect from hotels but a multi course experience akin to fine dining. Tables in the restaurant are reserved for the guests in advance before our arrival for the meals, which makes it feel more special. It seems the same waiter or waitress gets assigned to attend to the same room numbers consistently to foster the best experience since you'll built a rapport with them, which is something we really appreciated as well. They would even call your room to let you know that your meals are ready.

We had our first onsen experience here and it was memorable and relaxing, reminiscent of the same scenes we see so often in Japanese media.

If you're heading out to visit the Snow Monkey park, be sure to let the reception know so that they can give you a discount coupon.

The only gripe we have is that we couldn't stay longer with our budget. Also, the location is rather remote, so don't expect much in terms of food and amenities beyond the hotel. The hotel itself is meant to provide a self-contained experience for full relaxation. Would definately...

When we booked a 'traditional room' at the Kambayashi Hotel we had hoped for an authentic Japanese Onsen experience - and we certainly got it! The atmosphere of the hotel has a wonderful sense of calm and the room was laid out beautifully with futon beds (which were very comfortable) and thoughtful origami cranes on each pillow. The paper Shoji screens and the original furnishings were stylishly understated - when we opened them in the morning we were met with a spectacular view of gardens and mountains. We had hoped to have our own private Onsen (check this when making your booking) but the separate 'private' Onsens were available at a small additional cost. The outside experience amid the autumn colours was absolutely amazing.||Each morning, we had breakfast which in itself was a experience (wearing the Yukatas and sandals provided really adds to the moment) We were offered a selection of Japanese or Western dishes (depending on your choice) each were delicious. There were a few other great eateries in the area for dinner. It was also an unexpected treat to find that the Snow Monkey Park was a short(ish) walk from the hotel, the forest trail added a sense of mystery to our anticipation.||Our two nights at Kambayashi Hotel will be remembered forever (perhaps even repeated) We would wholeheartedly recommend it - but I'm also aware that too many visitors may change the serene nature of it! Hopefully a percent balance...