Hotel Tsubakino

What an absolute amazing experience. It was totally unexpected the time we had, we initially just booked because firstly it was close and easy access to the snow monkey park and then secondly there was a rooftop private onsen to book. Already happy with the above... But the staff, the dinner, the breakfast, the free saki bar, well where do I start. We didn't realise that you can (by choice) wear the traditional Yukata which is a a casual cotton robe worn after baths, to dinner, or around the building, sometimes with a simple sash. Which we did and it really felt like we were immersing ourselves in proper Japanese culture. If you have any doubts just book this place, you will not regret it and I really suggest the private outdoor onsen around 4pm in winter, with the perfect sunset and then into the darkness with an honestly bar with wine and local craft beers. Dinner amazing ... Breakfast Japanese style but we loved it and it was a lot! Free saki bar every night where you get up to 6 glasses each included in your stay and nespresso coffee machine all day and green tea also which is also found in your room daily. Absolutely wonderful... BOOK IT you won't regret it. Bus is a few minutes walk away which takes you directly to the snow monkey park and the staff are so sweet

Lovely Japanese hotel with surprisingly spacious rooms (compared to Tokyo) and friendly service! I made the reservation on Booking.com and messaged them about accommodating our vegetarian meals. We ate the best breakfast and dinner meals here, see the pictures! Chef Ichimura is a master! Be aware that Japanese style room means you'll sleep on futons, so make sure if you want a bed, to double check the room description and photos. Great location, only a few minutes walk from the Yudanaka station. The onsen was fantastic, as well. We highly recommend Hotel Tsubakino.

We stayed at Hotel Tsubakino in Yudanaka and absolutely loved it. The location is convenient, only a few minutes from the station, with free parking for guests. Our room was very spacious and included a private bath filled with natural onsen water. The window could be opened so you could enjoy the warm water with a view, almost like an outdoor bath. The western bed was very comfortable, and the room had thoughtful details such as a Nespresso machine, tea set, and complimentary sweets. Dinner and breakfast were both exceptional. The kaiseki dinner was beautifully prepared with several courses and excellent ingredients, and breakfast was a traditional Japanese meal with rice, miso soup, pickles, salad, and a warm dish served in a hot pot. Guests dine in private rooms, which gives a calm and authentic atmosphere. There are several ways to enjoy the hot spring: public baths for men and women included in the stay, a rooftop private onsen that can be reserved for a small fee, and some rooms with their own bath. The onsen water is of excellent quality and very gentle on the skin. The staff were extremely kind and attentive, and although their English was limited, they made every effort to communicate and even used small cards with pictures to explain the dishes. A truly authentic Japanese onsen hotel with outstanding food, service, and hospitality.

I had an amazing stay at Hotel Tsubakino and enjoyed impeccable traditional Japanese hospitality. The ryokan-style rooms were clean, spacious, and cosy. Best of all was the breakfast, which was amazing. Everything was fresh and tasted like someone actually cared. The onsen was clean, peaceful, and perfect after a long day of travelling. Overall, it was just a great place to unwind.

Our stay at this hotel was truly wonderful. The entire place was exceptionally clean, from the lobby to the rooms, which gave everything a fresh and welcoming feel. The staff were incredibly hospitable, always warm and attentive, making us feel genuinely cared for throughout our stay. The overall atmosphere had a luxurious touch — from the elegant decor to the comfort of the room and the thoughtful details that elevated the whole experience. It was the kind of place that makes you instantly relax the moment you walk in. We couldn’t have asked for a nicer stay and would gladly return.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely Unforgettable Ryokan Experience at Hotel Tsubakino – Yudanaka, Nagano Our stay at Hotel Tsubakino in Yudanaka was nothing short of magical and truly one of the most memorable ryokan experiences we have ever had in Japan. From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in the charm of this beautiful village — quaint, peaceful, and full of character. Visiting the snow monkeys nearby was an unforgettable experience and made the location even more special. What truly elevated this stay to another level, however, was the traditional Japanese half-board dining experience. Both breakfast and dinner were multi-course masterpieces — each dish thoughtfully prepared, exquisitely presented, and bursting with authentic flavors. Every meal felt like a work of art and a celebration of Japanese culinary tradition. Easily some of the best Japanese food we have ever had, anywhere. And then there is the service — simply outstanding. What sets Hotel Tsubakino apart is the genuine warmth, care, and pride of the people who work there. Every interaction felt heartfelt and personal. A very special thank you to the incredible team who made our stay exceptional: Masao Shimizu, Nang Thin Thin SOE, Seshiru, Kitazawa, C Hideaki Yumoto, TaKaNo RI Kobama, waTaru Gomi, Tukanoti Kodama, and Yukie Tsuboya — each of you played a role in creating an experience we will never forget. Your hospitality represents Japan at its very best. The top-floor onsen was the perfect way to end each day — warm, deeply relaxing, and incredibly comforting. Soaking before bed left us feeling calm, rejuvenated, and completely at peace. Hotel Tsubakino is not just a place to stay — it is an experience, filled with beauty, tradition, care, and soul. We would return in a heartbeat and recommend it without hesitation to anyone seeking an authentic, luxurious, and deeply meaningful ryokan stay. Five stars is not enough. Truly exceptional in every way. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

My friend had accidentally lost her backpack on the train just before we had arrived to the hotel for check in. As soon as we arrived at the hotel we asked to borrow their phone to call the lost in found center at the train station. After we explained the situation the hotel staff asked us what train we were on and what the backpack looked like and offered to call the station for us to help locate the backpack. This was a huge relief to us because we were worried about the language barrier over the phone. Not only did the hotel staff locate the backpack for us but they also typed out detailed instructions for us in English of where to go to pick up the backpack and what hours that lost/found center would be open. It was so helpful and we were able to get the backpack back easily! Not only was the staff really kind and professional but the hotel itself was really nice. I enjoyed the traditional style room, wearing a yukata for the first time, and being able to take a hot bath in the onsen. This hotel was my favorite on my Japan trip and I want to go back again!

Staff were amazing and very kind. The food here was an amazing and we really enjoyed the experience. The public baths were nice and well maintained. We really enjoyed our room and its private bath and the message chair was a nice touch.