Yamada Ryokan

Yamada Ryokan is a historic hot spring inn located in Otari village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture, in the Japanese Alps region. The property has a history spanning more than 450 years and is known as the hidden onsen of Takeda Shingen, the famous 16th-century feudal lord and military commander. This connection to one of Japan's most celebrated historical figures adds considerable cultural significance to the ryokan's legacy.

The main building, called "Motoyu," features a baking soda onsen containing radon, known for its therapeutic properties. The natural hot spring waters have drawn visitors for centuries, maintaining the traditional bathing culture that defines Japanese ryokan hospitality. Guests experience authentic Japanese accommodations with tatami rooms, kaiseki meals featuring local ingredients, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in centuries-old bathing rituals.

The inn offers both overnight stays and day-trip bathing experiences. Accommodation capacity reaches 80 people, with overnight rates starting from 13,200 yen per person including one night with two meals, consumption tax, and service charge. Day visitors can access the original Motoyu bath and an outdoor bath with mountain views. Day-trip bathing costs 500 yen for Motoyu and 700 yen for Shinyu Sotoyu, with a combination ladder ticket available for 1,000 yen.

Yamada Ryokan is located at 18836 Nakatsuchi, Otari-mura, Kitaazumi-gun, Nagano Prefecture and operates year-round. The ryokan can be reached by traveling to Otari village in the northern Japanese Alps region. Contact information for reservations and inquiries is available at 0261-85-1221. The surrounding area offers access to mountain scenery and serves as a base for exploring the Japan Alps region throughout all seasons.