A welcoming family run ryokan in Shibu Onsen where natural hot springs, seasonal kaiseki cuisine and authentic Japanese hospitality create a memorable stay.
Location
Kokuya Ryokan is located in the centre of Shibu Onsen, a historic hot spring town just outside Yudanaka in Nagano Prefecture. The ryokan is around five minutes by car from Yudanaka Station and offers a complimentary shuttle service on request. Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park is only a short drive away, while hiking, skiing and sightseeing opportunities are found throughout the surrounding mountains.
Rooms
The ryokan has 19 individually designed rooms, ranging from traditional tatami rooms to spacious suites with private open air hot spring baths. Interiors feature natural wood, shoji screens and futon bedding, combining classic Japanese style with modern comforts including ensuite bathrooms, WiFi and air conditioning.
Amenities
Kokuya is renowned for its nine natural hot spring baths, including indoor, outdoor and private baths, each supplied by different mineral rich spring sources. Guests can enjoy seasonal kaiseki dinners showcasing local Shinshu ingredients, a Japanese breakfast, a spa offering massage treatments and comfortable lounges for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Activities
Guests can wander the charming streets of Shibu Onsen, visit the famous public bathhouses or take a trip to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park to see the area's wild Japanese macaques. During the winter months, several ski resorts are within easy reach, while the region also offers scenic walking trails, temples and local sake breweries.
Sustainability
As a long established family owned ryokan, Kokuya helps preserve the traditions of Shibu Onsen through its historic building, regional cuisine and long standing connection to the local community. Seasonal ingredients are sourced from the Shinshu region wherever possible, supporting nearby farmers and producers.
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Find out the best time to visit Japan with our month by month guide.
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January
January is ideal for winter sports in Hokkaido and northern regions, with plenty of snow. Tokyo and Kyoto remain chilly but offer clear skies for sightseeing. Explore Sapporo's Snow Festival and soak in an onsen for the ultimate winter experience.
February
February is the best time for skiing and snowboarding in Nagano and Hokkaido. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major attraction, featuring stunning ice sculptures. Other areas are generally cold and dry and good for sightseeing.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, with cherry blossoms starting to bloom in southern regions like Kyoto and Tokyo. Enjoy hanami picnics under the pink blossoms. It's a great time for hiking and outdoor adventures.
April
April is the peak of cherry blossom season. Witness Tokyo's Ueno Park and Kyoto's Maruyama Park come alive with vibrant sakura. Golden Week, late April to early May, offers festive parades and events.
May
May offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and hiking. Explore Tokyo's International Food Festival and enjoy the comfortable climate for sightseeing in Kyoto.
June
June is the start of the rainy season, known as tsuyu, lasting until mid-July. Although it's wet, explore Kyoto's temples and gardens amid light crowds. Festivals like the Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo showcase Japanese traditions.
July
July continues the rainy season, but the Tanabata Star Festival brightens the skies. Hokkaido hosts the Lavender Festival with fields of purple blooms. Kyoto's Gion Matsuri features grand floats.
August
August offers festivals and fireworks. The Obon Festival celebrates ancestors with lanterns and dances. Enjoy the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo. Hokkaido's summer flower festivals are perfect for nature enthusiasts.
September
September brings comfortable weather and the iconic Kunchi Festival in Nagasaki. Explore the Sapporo Autumn Festival in Hokkaido. It's a great time for sightseeing with fewer tourists.
October
October features stunning autumn foliage in Kyoto and Nikko. Visit Tokyo's Meiji Shrine during the Meiji Jingu Festival and enjoy Oktoberfest celebrations. Ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures.
November
November showcases autumn foliage, with Kyoto's temples and parks ablaze in red and orange. Yoyogi Park in Tokyo hosts the International Food Festival, and Kyushu's hot spring resorts offer relaxation.
December
December marks the onset of winter, with holiday illuminations in cities and festive lights. Explore Hokkaido's Sapporo Snow Festival with breathtaking ice sculptures. Ski resorts open for winter sports enthusiasts.