Ryokan Hatsunoyu — Local services in Yamanouchi

This was our first ryokan experience, so we were clueless as to what to expect. They were kind enough to offer us pickup from and to the Yudanaka station. The first thing they suggested is to get us to Snow Monkey Park instead of the ryokan. This made sense because we arrived in the morning so that we would get back from the park around check in time, but it was quite thoughtful of them. When we checked in, they gave us cute tags of our names in Japanese chained to our room key. Hatsunoyu is very strategically located because just in front of it stands the public onsen No. 1 and it's also close to the restaurants. The ryokan has separate private onsen for men and women (you have to shower there too), which is definitely a plus so that you do not need to go outside if its too cold. The room itself isn't luxurious in the sense of Western 5 starred hotels, but you do get to feel the traditional Japan experience, including tea making kit, yukatas, and many amenities (even hair dryer in the onsen). We had kaiseki dinner and breakfast which weren't by any means lavish; they were simple but fulfilling with fresh fish and delicious veggies. On the table at the first floor there were also dressup cards styled like they were made in the 90s. We didn't realize they were all the Shibu Onsen ryokan owners. It was a very cute way of promoting the onsen. Most of all, we were impressed by the fact that this ryokan is run by just a couple (Yuko and her husband) but they responded so fast, acted proactively and treated us as if we were the only guests. Would really recommend this place...

Our stay at Hatsunoyu in Yamanouchi, Japan, was truly unforgettable. The town itself was absolutely breathtaking—peaceful, scenic, and full of charm.

From the moment we booked, our host was nothing short of amazing. Communication was easy, responses were quick, and every interaction felt thoughtful and kind. She went above and beyond, even personally dropping us off at the Snow Monkey Park after our stay—such a special touch!

Checking into the ryokan was like stepping into another world. We fully immersed ourselves in traditional Japanese culture from the moment we arrived. Shoes came off at the door, slippers went on, and we were guided to our room—complete with tatami mats, sliding doors, and a cozy low table that made everything feel so serene.

Not long after settling in, we changed into our yukatas, slipped on our getas (wooden sandals), and walked across the street to the onsen bathhouse. Soaking in the hot spring surrounded by the quiet beauty of Yamanouchi was the perfect way to end the day.

Hatsunoyu gave us more than just a place to sleep—it gave us an experience. Highly recommend to anyone looking to slow down, soak up tradition, and enjoy genuine hospitality...

We chose this Ryokan for a "unique, rustic experience" and we definitely got it!|The place is run by a charming lady and her husband (who stayed behind the scenes). The husband's family has owned the ryokan for several generations.|They picked up our party of 10 from the train station in a small Nissan and a CRV. It took two trips. The place is over 100 years old. Our room had a phone with a dial and a VCR. You walk through an underground tunnel to get to the dining area which is in the adjacent building. The lady sees you off at the Ryokan building and by the time you get to the dining room, she is already there ready to serve you dinner! There are two different onsens which were ancient but enjoyable.|There are were so many funny, memorable things about this experience that made us laugh. I am glad we stayed here for...