Tawaraya — Hotel in Yamanouchi

If you've come all the way out to Yudanaka to go up to Jigokudani Yaen Koen and see the snow monkeys, then it is absolutely worth your time and money to stay in this quaint town where things move slower. If you do that, then Tawaraya Ryokan should be at the top of your list. The ryokan is within walking distance from the train station / bus station, but not so close that you can hear the noise. The ryokan is plain looking on the outside, but the inside shows a great traditional design. It is a small place with only a few rooms, so because of that each room can be spacious. The room was a good size for relaxing. The staff provide quality service that you cannot find just anywhere. They are friendly, accommodating, and observant of guest needs. They are also very polite, this is one of those places where the hostess will sit and chat with you on the first night to help you get settled in. The public and private bath are both well-kept. The private bath is outside which makes for a uniquely Japanese experience. Absolutely an inn that I want to return to time...

Exceptional family run Ryokan. With both indoor and outdoor onsens, the outdoor onsen can be used privately every day for 1/2 hour which was a favorite part of our day. The meals are traditional Japanese and delicious. The room was spotlessly clean, very comfortable futons, very cozy comforters. The Inn is very peaceful and has beautiful Japanese decor. The property is very well kept up and super clean. The WiFi was easy to access. We loved staying and felt as if we were staying in a private home. The owners are very kind and attentive. The location is excellent, an enjoyable walk to Shibu Onsen, easy access to skiing at Shiga Kogen, and super close to the train station and restaurants. We left on an early train when departing, the owners made our breakfast early and dropped us off at the train station, which was such a...

Super glad to have discovered this hotel after seeing it feature on a Tik Tok video.

We chose this for a 1nt stay to combine visiting the Snow Monkey Park and to experience an Onsen.

Family hosts were super friendly and the hotel and rooms are extremely clean. Had the best night sleep of my Japan trip on the Ryokan bed.

Breakfast served was traditional Japanese food, rice, fish, green beans and Matcha tea.

Best part was the lovely clean Onsen, there is a shared onsen and also a private Onsen which you can request a time at check-in for a small fee.

It's a little further way from shibu-onsen village but don't let that put you off as it's only 10mins walk and only 7mins to train Station.

Overall...