In our experience, this cozy Japanese inn in Nozawa Onsen really hits the spot for travelers looking to dive into local culture. Just a quick stroll from a historic temple and bus stop, it’s a great base for exploring.
The rooms, ranging from traditional futon setups to a big family-sized house, are comfy and clean. You can soak your cares away in their hot spring baths, both indoor and outdoor, or sweat it out in the sauna. The food is a treat too, showcasing tasty regional dishes.
Now, a couple of things to keep in mind: if you have tattoos or enjoy smoking, you might face some restrictions here.
Also, the traditional futon beds might take some getting used to if you’re accustomed to Western-style mattresses.
This place is perfect for folks who want to fully embrace Japanese customs and don’t mind adapting to local rules. If you’re after a genuine, immersive experience and enjoy soaking in hot springs, you’ll feel right at home here.
It’s especially great for couples or families looking to bond over a shared cultural adventure.
Key Points
- Ryokan Sakaya is a traditional Japanese inn located in Nozawa Onsen, a picturesque town, offering Japanese-style rooms and on-site amenities like indoor/outdoor onsen baths.
- The ryokan is conveniently situated within a 3-minute walk from Kenmei-ji Temple and the Nozawa Onsen bus stop, and 20 minutes by car from Nozawa Onsen Station.
- Guests can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine in the on-site restaurant, with options for dietary requirements, and the ryokan provides ski storage and passes.
- Ryokan Sakaya has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with guests commending the location, comfort, and traditional hospitality, as well as the knowledgeable staff.
- The ryokan has restrictions on tattoos and smoking to maintain a serene and traditional atmosphere, and guests are required to review the cancellation and child policies prior to booking.
Overview and Location
Located in the picturesque town of Nozawa Onsen, Ryokan Sakaya is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a serene and authentic experience.
Just a short 3-minute walk from the Kenmei-ji Temple and Nozawa Onsen bus stop, the ryokan is also conveniently situated 2 minutes from the Nozawa Onsen Sotoyu and 20 minutes by car from Nozawa Onsen Station.
With a rating of 8.8 and praised for its free WiFi, Ryokan Sakaya has become a highly sought-after destination for travelers seeking a taste of traditional Japanese hospitality.
Its prime location and excellent amenities make it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy the charming town of Nozawa Onsen.
Accommodation and Facilities
Within the comfortable confines of Ryokan Sakaya, guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit their needs. The property offers Japanese-style rooms with 4 or 5 futon beds, as well as a spacious three-bedroom house that can accommodate up to 6 guests.
Guests can also enjoy the on-site amenities, including indoor and outdoor onsen baths, a sauna, and massage services. For convenience, the ryokan provides ski storage and ski pass sales, along with a restaurant that serves Japanese breakfast and dinner.
With free WiFi and private parking available, Ryokan Sakaya ensures a comfortable and well-equipped stay for its guests.
Guest Feedback and Highlights
Guests who’ve stayed at Ryokan Sakaya have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, praising the property’s great location, comfortable beds, and spacious accommodations.
Reviewers highlighted several key aspects of their experience, including:
- The family onsen and impressive food presentation
- The cleanliness and traditional Japanese style of the ryokan
- The knowledgeable and attentive staff, earning an 8.9 rating
- The excellent facilities, like the sauna and massage services, scoring an 8.6
- The overall value for money, which received a solid 7.7 rating.
Ryokan Sakaya’s impressive 8.8 rating from 16 reviews solidifies its position as one of the top-rated accommodations in the Nozawa Onsen area.
Dining Options
Ryokan Sakaya’s on-site restaurant serves up a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine, catering to guests’ preferences with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available.
Breakfast and dinner are served in the restaurant, which offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere. Guests can enjoy their meals in the traditional Japanese-style setting, complemented by the availability of tea and coffee makers in all rooms.
For those seeking additional refreshments, vending machines are conveniently located on-site.
Dining at the Ryokan Sakaya restaurant provides visitors with an immersive cultural experience, allowing them to savor the flavors of Japan during their stay.
Check-in and Check-out
Visitors can check in to Ryokan Sakaya from 15:00 onwards.
Check-out time is until 11:00.
The ryokan has a flexible cancellation policy, with variations depending on the accommodation type booked.
Children aren’t allowed, but extra beds for adults are available at an additional cost.
Pets aren’t permitted, and smoking is prohibited on the premises.
Guests with tattoos may not be permitted in the public bathing areas.
- Convenient check-in from 3 PM
- Flexible check-out by 11 AM
- Cancellation terms vary by room type
- No children; extra adult beds available
- Tattoos restricted in bathing areas
Cancellation and Child Policy
The cancellation policy at Ryokan Sakaya varies depending on the accommodation type booked. Guests are encouraged to review the policies prior to booking. The ryokan also has a child policy, disallowing children, but offering extra beds for adults at an additional cost. A summary of the key policies is provided below:
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Cancellation | Varies by accommodation type |
| Children | Not allowed, extra adult beds available |
| Pets | Not permitted |
Tattoo and Smoking Policy
Guests with tattoos may not be permitted in the public bathing areas at Ryokan Sakaya. This policy is strictly enforced to maintain the traditional and respectful atmosphere of the ryokan.
Smoking is also not allowed anywhere on the premises, including guest rooms and common areas. The ryokan takes pride in providing a serene and relaxing experience for all guests.
Key highlights of the policy include:
- No tattooed guests allowed in public onsen baths
- Smoking prohibited throughout the ryokan
- Maintaining a traditional, peaceful ambiance
- Ensuring the comfort and privacy of all guests
- Upholding the cultural etiquette of the ryokan experience
Reservation Requirements
At Ryokan Sakaya, dinner reservations must be made by 11:00 on the same day. This requirement ensures the restaurant is prepared to provide a high-quality dining experience for guests.
| Reservation Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Dinner Reservations | Must be made by 11:00 on the same day |
| Room Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Room Check-out | Until 11:00 |
The check-in and check-out times further contribute to the smooth operation of the ryokan, allowing staff to efficiently prepare rooms for incoming guests. By adhering to these policies, Ryokan Sakaya can maintain its exceptional level of service and hospitality for all visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do They Offer Transportation Services From the Train Station?
The ryokan doesn’t provide transportation services from the train station. Guests will need to take a 20-minute drive from Nozawa Onsen Station to reach the ryokan, which is located a short walk from the Nozawa Onsen bus stop.
Can I Request an Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
The ryokan’s check-in and check-out times are strictly observed, though guests may be able to request early check-in or late check-out for an additional fee, subject to availability and the ryokan’s policies.
Does the Ryokan Provide Any Activity Recommendations in the Local Area?
The ryokan doesn’t explicitly provide activity recommendations, but they offer ski storage and ski pass sales, suggesting they can assist guests with organizing winter sports activities. The convenient location near temples and hot springs also allows guests to explore the local area independently.
Can I Order Food or Drinks to Be Delivered to My Room?
Ryokan Sakaya doesn’t offer room service, but guests can enjoy Japanese breakfast and dinner served at the on-site restaurant. The ryokan also provides vending machines for snacks and drinks available throughout the property.
Is There an On-Site Laundry Facility I Can Use During My Stay?
There is no on-site laundry facility available for guests at this ryokan. However, the property does offer other convenient amenities like an indoor and outdoor onsen, sauna, and restaurant serving Japanese cuisine for breakfast and dinner.
The Sum Up
After a long day of exploring the charming village of Nozawa Onsen, we found ourselves embracing the warmth of true Japanese hospitality at this delightful ryokan. Tucked away in the heart of the town, it’s a haven for weary travelers seeking an authentic experience.
The moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a sense of tranquility. The hot springs beckoned us to soak away our cares, while the on-site restaurant tantalized our taste buds with local delicacies. We couldn’t help but feel rejuvenated, both in body and spirit.
What really sets this place apart is its prime location, coupled with comfortable rooms and staff who go above and beyond. It’s the perfect base for enjoying the rich culture of Nozawa Onsen.
If you’re ready to embark on your own Japanese adventure, you can book this ryokan through the button below. We use Booking.com for our reservations – it’s free to use and often offers competitive rates. Happy travels!