"The food is delicious and very varied. And the onsen bath was fantastic. They have access to a spring that makes your skin feel soft like cotton.
Truly a lovely experience"
"The food is delicious and very varied. And the onsen bath was fantastic. They have access to a spring that makes your skin feel soft like cotton.
Truly a lovely experience"
"A beautiful full-service experience that exceeded our expectations. The included dinners and breakfasts not only tasted good, but also taught us about Japanese culture and customs.
Thank you to all staff for providing the experience."
"A beautiful full-service experience that exceeded our expectations. The included dinners and breakfasts not only tasted good, but also taught us about Japanese culture and customs.
Thank you to all staff for providing the experience."
"Our stay here was amazing. The onsens were relaxing and beautiful, but the staff is what made our stay one of our favorite places while in Japan. Everyone went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and at home."
"Our stay here was amazing. The onsens were relaxing and beautiful, but the staff is what made our stay one of our favorite places while in Japan. Everyone went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and at home."
"Overall great experience with the hotel, breakfast was excellent, good variety, staff was helpful with great suggestions of things to see and do, room was clean and well stocked. We would stay here again."
"Overall great experience with the hotel, breakfast was excellent, good variety, staff was helpful with great suggestions of things to see and do, room was clean and well stocked. We would stay here again."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Though Kamiimai might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Biande Shinshu Nakano and Hokusai Museum.
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Japan Clay Dolls Museum in Nakano. Discover the hot springs and mountain views in this culturally rich area.
Nestled in the mountains, Joshin'etsu-kogen National Park offers scenic hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from downtown. Soak in the healing waters of Yudanaka Hot Spring or hit the slopes at nearby Shiga Kogen Ski Area when winter transforms the landscape.
The room was spotless and comfortable. The staff was amazing! Very. Courteous and helpful the moment you arrive. The station is a within walking distance which is helpful if in a rush.
The room was spotless and comfortable. The staff was amazing! Very. Courteous and helpful the moment you arrive. The station is a within walking distance which is helpful if in a rush.
Saul
Reviewed February 17, 2026Reviewed February 17, 2026
An unforgettable experience with my son who is 9 we enjoyed the private onsen with 2 separate baths we bathed under the stars which was perfect. The staff was incredibly accommodating attentive and so SWEET , the Japanese chocolate covered pecans are dreamy definitely grab a box or 2!
An unforgettable experience with my son who is 9 we enjoyed the private onsen with 2 separate baths we bathed under the stars which was perfect. The staff was incredibly accommodating attentive and so SWEET , the Japanese chocolate covered pecans are dreamy definitely grab a box or 2!
Victoria
Reviewed February 15, 2024Reviewed February 15, 2024
Very enjoyable experience with polite staff in kimono. If one would like to immerse themselves in Japanese tradition with tatami floors, sleeping on futon, and taking a traditional bath (onsen)/dress in yukata provided by the hotel, then this is the hotel for you.
Very enjoyable experience with polite staff in kimono. If one would like to immerse themselves in Japanese tradition with tatami floors, sleeping on futon, and taking a traditional bath (onsen)/dress in yukata provided by the hotel, then this is the hotel for you.
This was a very nice experience for me and my family. The hotel itself is very nice, but the best part is the service provided by the staff. Extremely courteous and they provided for all our requests. It's in a very nice location with 9 onsens (hot spings) within walking distance. As long as you stay in a hotel in town, you get a free key to access all of them. The hotel provides you with a Onsen outfit that we found very fun to walk around in (like a kimono with jacket and wooden sandels)....
This was a very nice experience for me and my family. The hotel itself is very nice, but the best part is the service provided by the staff. Extremely courteous and they provided for all our requests. It's in a very nice location with 9 onsens (hot spings) within walking distance. As long as you stay in a hotel in town, you get a free key to access all of them. The hotel provides you with a Onsen outfit that we found very fun to walk around in (like a kimono with jacket and wooden sandels)....
Glenn
Reviewed January 16, 2017Reviewed January 16, 2017
Really enjoyed my 6-night stay here. It really is a traditional Japanese hotel and experience and loved the friendly and helpful staff, and the location is just a short 10 min scenic stroll across the river to the bus/train station.
Didnt know what to expect but the Japanese style tatami rooms were cosy and comfy, and the outdoor onsen was just what was needed after a day on the ski slopes.
The half-board option is a must if you love Japanese food and each night was like a little banquet with...
Really enjoyed my 6-night stay here. It really is a traditional Japanese hotel and experience and loved the friendly and helpful staff, and the location is just a short 10 min scenic stroll across the river to the bus/train station.
Didnt know what to expect but the Japanese style tatami rooms were cosy and comfy, and the outdoor onsen was just what was needed after a day on the ski slopes.
The half-board option is a must if you love Japanese food and each night was like a little banquet with...
Michael
Reviewed February 28, 2024Reviewed February 28, 2024
All around incredible stay. Located on the Onsen road, with access to two public baths outside of the hotel, two very well equipped Onsen within the hotel, and the option to reserve a private Onsen as well. Not listed on when booking, but the hotel picked us up from the train station, as well as runs a free shuttle once every morning (940am) to the monkey park. Really nice touch that they should publicize more broadly. Highly recommend getting breakfast and dinner included. Highlight of the...
All around incredible stay. Located on the Onsen road, with access to two public baths outside of the hotel, two very well equipped Onsen within the hotel, and the option to reserve a private Onsen as well. Not listed on when booking, but the hotel picked us up from the train station, as well as runs a free shuttle once every morning (940am) to the monkey park. Really nice touch that they should publicize more broadly. Highly recommend getting breakfast and dinner included. Highlight of the...
Very unique traditional onsen experience! Staff were very kind and helpful. Only stayed on night but it was perfect, very close to Yudanaka train station and Snow Monkey Park bus station, and only a mile walk from Shibu Hot Springs! Thank you very much.
Very unique traditional onsen experience! Staff were very kind and helpful. Only stayed on night but it was perfect, very close to Yudanaka train station and Snow Monkey Park bus station, and only a mile walk from Shibu Hot Springs! Thank you very much.
This was the last place we stayed during our honeymoon trip to Korea and Japan — we had the "Japanese Style with Open Air Bath B (Take)" room which was massive and featured an outdoor bathing area with piped in hot spring water. We had an amazing host who explained everything about the room, a spectacular dinner was included, and overall a really magical evening. Definitely worth the cost. Still thinking about our time there...
This was the last place we stayed during our honeymoon trip to Korea and Japan — we had the "Japanese Style with Open Air Bath B (Take)" room which was massive and featured an outdoor bathing area with piped in hot spring water. We had an amazing host who explained everything about the room, a spectacular dinner was included, and overall a really magical evening. Definitely worth the cost. Still thinking about our time there...
Matt
Reviewed November 21, 2016Reviewed November 21, 2016
If I could rate Shimaya an 11 out of 10, I would. The inn itself was so charming and wonderful, and that's long before you get to the wonderful hosts' hospitality, joy, and kindness. When we shared our plans for Nagano, we were told we HAD to check out Obuse...which was a worthwhile stop on our trip and definitely added to the richness we enjoyed in Japan! Thank you so much.
If I could rate Shimaya an 11 out of 10, I would. The inn itself was so charming and wonderful, and that's long before you get to the wonderful hosts' hospitality, joy, and kindness. When we shared our plans for Nagano, we were told we HAD to check out Obuse...which was a worthwhile stop on our trip and definitely added to the richness we enjoyed in Japan! Thank you so much.
Hannah
Reviewed December 14, 2023Reviewed December 14, 2023
This place was the most amazing, warm, friendly, and loving hotel I’ve ever had the privilege of staying. The entire hotel is run by a phenomenal family—so incredibly kind, loving, and welcoming. We were greeted warmly upon our arrival and they showed us a map of the town, asked how they could help, and made great suggestions for dinner.
The gentleman drove my family and I to the Snow Monkey Park and drove us to the train station the next morning.
We had the most delicious cheeseburgers...
This place was the most amazing, warm, friendly, and loving hotel I’ve ever had the privilege of staying. The entire hotel is run by a phenomenal family—so incredibly kind, loving, and welcoming. We were greeted warmly upon our arrival and they showed us a map of the town, asked how they could help, and made great suggestions for dinner.
The gentleman drove my family and I to the Snow Monkey Park and drove us to the train station the next morning.
We had the most delicious cheeseburgers...
Impeccably clean, nice hot onsen, super helpful front desk. Cozy comfy beds. We don’t try the food but we will next time because it smelled delicious. *expedia site is WRONG - it’s not a 3 minute walk to ski resort - It’s a 30 min drive.
Impeccably clean, nice hot onsen, super helpful front desk. Cozy comfy beds. We don’t try the food but we will next time because it smelled delicious. *expedia site is WRONG - it’s not a 3 minute walk to ski resort - It’s a 30 min drive.
Melissa
Reviewed February 21, 2025Reviewed February 21, 2025
Beautiful surroundings, and right next to the path that leads to the monkey park. We very much enjoyed the kaiseki dinner and Japanese breakfast. They were happy to explain what everything was and how to eat it, since a number of the dishes were unfamiliar to us (in particular with the breakfast). The public onsen is nice, and in addition to the indoor pool, has a small but pretty outdoor area. The staff anticipate everything, and somehow manage to be extremely helpful while leaving you on your...
Beautiful surroundings, and right next to the path that leads to the monkey park. We very much enjoyed the kaiseki dinner and Japanese breakfast. They were happy to explain what everything was and how to eat it, since a number of the dishes were unfamiliar to us (in particular with the breakfast). The public onsen is nice, and in addition to the indoor pool, has a small but pretty outdoor area. The staff anticipate everything, and somehow manage to be extremely helpful while leaving you on your...
Douglas
Reviewed December 26, 2016Reviewed December 26, 2016
Aside from the lovely hosts, the best thing about this place is proximity to the Snow Money Park, which is INCREDIBLE! There are a few good places to eat within walking distance, Enza at the park entrance is fantastic, and we also loved Farmhouse brew pub.
As for the actual lodging, it's great. The hosts are the sweetest people in the world, very accommodating. I had the Japanese breakfast each morning and it was stellar. I also had the onsen to myself for an hour or so each night. Lovely...
Aside from the lovely hosts, the best thing about this place is proximity to the Snow Money Park, which is INCREDIBLE! There are a few good places to eat within walking distance, Enza at the park entrance is fantastic, and we also loved Farmhouse brew pub.
As for the actual lodging, it's great. The hosts are the sweetest people in the world, very accommodating. I had the Japanese breakfast each morning and it was stellar. I also had the onsen to myself for an hour or so each night. Lovely...
What a gem! Shibu Onsen Ichinoyu Katei is an experience in itself. A short ride from Yudanaka train station, this tradițional ryokhan is excellent. As soon as you arrive you will be greated by the hotel manager (okamisan) who is attentive and will answer any questions. Dinner and breakfast were included in the price and the food was amazing. Traditional food was prepared with attention to the details and served by lovely staff. Be punctual. Dinner at 630 and breakfast at 730. There are nine ...
What a gem! Shibu Onsen Ichinoyu Katei is an experience in itself. A short ride from Yudanaka train station, this tradițional ryokhan is excellent. As soon as you arrive you will be greated by the hotel manager (okamisan) who is attentive and will answer any questions. Dinner and breakfast were included in the price and the food was amazing. Traditional food was prepared with attention to the details and served by lovely staff. Be punctual. Dinner at 630 and breakfast at 730. There are nine ...
Thrilling Ski Adventures: Nakano is a paradise for ski enthusiasts, featuring excellent ski fields and resorts for all skill levels.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing hot springs that provide a perfect escape after a day of outdoor activities.
Cultural Experiences: Explore intriguing museums and cultural gems that showcase the rich heritage of the region.
Scenic Lakes: Discover beautiful lakes that offer stunning views and recreational opportunities for families.
Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels and traditional ryokans for a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in and around Nakano
Experience the charm of Nakano in Nagano Prefecture, where a variety of accommodations await you, including hotels and traditional ryokans. Ideal for travelers seeking a hot spring retreat or an adventurous ski getaway, Nakano offers a blend of comfort and local culture. Explore the best hotel options and reviews to ensure a perfect stay, whether you’re looking for luxury or a cozy atmosphere.
Xplore by Active Life: Located 11km from Nakano, Xplore by Active Life offers a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on outdoor adventure. This 3-star hotel features an array of dining options, including a bar and lounge, along with complimentary breakfast and reception services. Guests can engage in various sports and recreational activities, such as snowshoeing and skiing, with equipment rentals available onsite. In the evening, relax in your room with entertainment options like Smart TV and Netflix, making it a great choice for those seeking both adventure and comfort.
Hotel Route-Inn Nakano: Situated in the heart of Nakano, Hotel Route-Inn Nakano boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This 3-star hotel features a cozy restaurant, perfect for enjoying local cuisine. For entertainment, guests can unwind with an LCD TV, digital channels, and pay movies. With its convenient location and comfortable amenities, it serves as a welcoming base for exploring the charming surroundings of Nakano.
Active Life Madarao: Just 11km from Nakano, Active Life Madarao stands out with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This 3.5-star hotel features a restaurant and bar, with breakfast available for an additional fee. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the range of activities, including skiing and snowboarding, with rentals and storage facilities onsite. Guests can enjoy entertainment options such as a flat-screen TV and billiards. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and rural landscapes, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Where to stay in and around Nakano
Nakano, nestled in Nagano Prefecture, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Known for its excellent skiing and outdoor sports, it also boasts a friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for families. Explore nearby cultural gems and enjoy the luxury of downtown Tokyo or the vibrant streets of Shinsaibashi, Osaka. With its convenient location, Nakano serves as a fantastic base for discovering the rich culture and scenic beauty of Japan.
Yamanouchi: Nestled approximately 14km from Nakano, Yamanouchi is a vibrant city renowned for its exceptional winter sports and outdoor adventures. With a consistent influx of visitors year-round, the peak seasons in January, April, and July invite travelers seeking thrilling ski experiences. The city boasts a variety of ski resorts and fields, making it a premier destination for skiing enthusiasts. Beyond winter sports, Yamanouchi is home to natural hot springs, parks, and scenic views, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Yudanaka Shibu Onsen: Located just 6km from Nakano, Yudanaka Shibu Onsen is a charming village celebrated for its serene hot springs. This quaint destination attracts visitors primarily during the winter months from December to February, when the atmosphere is perfect for cozying up in onsen baths following a day of skiing. With a strong focus on outdoor activities, Yudanaka Shibu Onsen features various ski fields and resorts, allowing adventurers to indulge in both thrills and relaxation amidst beautiful landscapes.
Kamiimai: Situated in close proximity to Nakano, Kamiimai is a picturesque neighborhood that draws travelers looking for adventure, particularly from December to February. The area is known for its ski resorts and fields, making it a popular choice for sports enthusiasts. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby mountains and lookout points, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration. Additionally, the local hot springs offer a delightful way to unwind after an exhilarating day outdoors.
Things to do in Nakano
Shopping
Nakano offers a charming shopping experience with local boutiques and souvenir shops. Explore the Nakano Shopping Street for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Nagano City has larger malls like Midori Nagano and the lively Nagano Station area for more diverse shopping options.
Recreation
The Nakano Onsen offers a tranquil retreat with soothing hot springs surrounded by picturesque mountains. Visitors can indulge in relaxing baths and rejuvenating treatments. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Chikuma River provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing, allowing for a refreshing connection with nature.
Adventure
In Nakano, explore the scenic trails of the Chikuma River, offering opportunities for hiking and biking amidst breathtaking landscapes. Engage in thrilling winter sports at nearby ski resorts, where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on pristine slopes during the colder months.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife in Nakano by visiting the local izakayas for delicious food and drinks. Check out Karaoke bars for a fun singing experience with friends. For a more laid-back vibe, unwind at cozy cafes that offer a variety of local brews and live performances.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nakano
To save money during your trip to Nakano, consider visiting between June to July or September when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Wednesday stay for the cheapest options. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals, sort by price, and combine your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Look for Eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices, and take advantage of public transport to explore free attractions in the area.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Nakano are June to July and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Nakano about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Nakano is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Nakano is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort the results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Nakano with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in and around Nakano
Nakano, located in Nagano Prefecture, is perfect for visitors seeking ski, adventure, and sports vacations. Explore a variety of attractions, including soothing hot springs, intriguing museums, and beautiful lakes. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences or outdoor family fun, Nakano offers a diverse range of points of interest that cater to all types of travelers.
Biande Shinshu Nakano: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Nakano at Biande Shinshu Nakano, where friendly locals welcome you to explore regional delicacies and traditional crafts, offering a glimpse into the area's heritage.
Shibu: Just 8km from Nakano, unwind in the natural hot springs of Shibu. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, it's a haven for wellness and relaxation, allowing you to soak in the warm waters while enjoying the serene outdoors.
Lake Nojiri: Located 13km from Nakano, Lake Nojiri boasts stunning scenery and a picturesque beach. Ideal for outdoor activities, it’s a romantic spot for leisurely strolls or picnics, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Best time to go to Nakano
The best time to visit Nakano is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
28.4°F (-2.0°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Slightly High
February
29.8°F (-1.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Slightly High
March
37.4°F (3.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
April
47.7°F (8.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
May
58.6°F (14.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately Low
Average
June
65.5°F (18.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
July
72.5°F (22.5°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
August
73.9°F (23.3°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
September
65.7°F (18.7°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
October
54.1°F (12.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
November
44.6°F (7.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
December
34.2°F (1.2°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Nakano
Traveling to Nakano, Nagano Prefecture is feasible via several major airports. Niigata Airport (KIJ) is located 148km away, with nearby hotel options like Hotel Nikko Niigata, ANA Crowne Plaza Niigata, and Hotel Okura Niigata, all within 6km. TOYama Airport (TOY) is 105km from Nakano, offering hotels such as DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama and ANA Crowne Plaza Toyama, both 6km away. Finally, Wajima Airport (NTQ-Noto) is 137km distant, featuring accommodations like Wajimaonsen Yashio and Hotel Route Inn Wajima, both 13km from the airport, which offer free airport transportation. Each airport provides convenient access to Nakano for a delightful vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the top vacation rental that Nakano has to offer?
YADOKARI VILLAGE KITAKARUIZAWA: This vacation home rental near Nakano is located in a national park and offers a private yard, air-conditioning, and free WiFi to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities like a stovetop and kitchenware can make your vacation run smoothly. See all vacation rentals in Nakano.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Nakano, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel reservations are fully refundable if cancelled prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might still have the option to cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Nakano.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Nakano?
To access more information about picking new dates or cancelling your trip to Nakano, head over to our customer service page.
Where is the best place to stay with easy access to Japan Clay Dolls Museum?
Guest House Honami-kaido - Hostel is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this property offers free parking and free WiFi. It's located just a short 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from Japan Clay Dolls Museum. Other good options within a few miles include Wafu No Yado MASUYA and Hotel&Resort Yamanouchi Hills.
What about the best place to stay near Kokugonji?
One of the top choices for your stay is Guesthouse Kanoka, located 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from Kokugonji, and this guesthouse offers a restaurant and free parking. Lomakoti Kippis and yule-nisse are a couple of other good options within 5 miles.
How is it staying in Nakano?
Visitors can enjoy all that Nakano has to offer including its museums. Top sights around the area include Shiga Kogen Ski Area and Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort. In Nakano, there are 4 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Nakano.
Head over to Kaesa Station for metro transit. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Nakano for your journey.
What's the weather like in Nakano?
The hottest months are usually August and July with an average temp of 69°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 32°F. The rainiest months in Nakano are July, December, January, and August, with each month seeing an average of 10 inches of rainfall.