Nakao Kogen Hotel Kazaguruma

The hotel offers a serene mountain retreat, distinguished by its private in-room hot spring baths that provide stunning views of the surrounding peaks. This unique feature, combined with exceptionally spacious rooms, makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic and tranquil escape, families desiring ample space, and hikers or outdoor enthusiasts looking for convenient access to the Japanese Alps. Guests consistently highlight the excellent value for money, allowing for a luxurious experience at an affordable price point. The peaceful and secluded atmosphere is a major draw for those seeking to disconnect and relax amidst nature. To ensure a comfortable stay, it is highly recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are no convenience stores or dining options nearby. Additionally, considering the hotel's secluded location, having a car can significantly enhance accessibility and exploration of the area.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of amenities designed for guest convenience and relaxation. Each room features a private hot spring bath, allowing guests to enjoy the therapeutic waters in privacy, often with scenic views. For practical needs, a coin laundry facility is available, complete with detergent, making longer stays more comfortable. Guests can also unwind in a dedicated utility room that offers travel information, magazines, and a complimentary massage chair. While there is no public hot spring, the private in-room options are highly praised. The property also includes a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic 360-degree mountain views, though some guests note it is showing signs of age and could benefit from maintenance. Additionally, a microwave is available in a common area for guest use, and some rooms are equipped with telescopes or binoculars for stargazing or enjoying distant views.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the spaciousness of the rooms, which are notably larger than typical Japanese accommodations, providing ample space for relaxation. While the rooms are generally kept clean, many guests observe that the hotel's age is evident through dated decor, peeling wallpaper, and stained carpets, suggesting a need for refurbishment. The natural sulfur smell from the in-room hot springs is a common observation, which some find strong but inherent to the spring water. Room lighting is often described as dim, making activities like reading challenging. Most guests find the beds comfortable, though some mention they can be either too soft or too hard, and traditional hard pillows are sometimes provided. The private hot spring tubs are a highlight, but some guests note they can be slippery or feel sticky, and the shower areas within the hot spring space are sometimes less convenient than a standard bathroom shower.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers both breakfast and dinner options, which guests are generally advised to book in advance due to the remote location. Breakfast is typically served in a Japanese style, often described as tasty, healthy, and satisfying, though some guests find the variety limited or the start time (8:00 AM) a bit late if they have early travel plans. For dinner, the Hida beef option comes highly recommended by many, praised for its deliciousness and value. While many guests enjoy the meals, feedback is mixed, with some finding the food average, repetitive, or not entirely authentic Japanese cuisine. There are no lunch options available at the hotel, reinforcing the need for guests to bring their own provisions for midday meals. The restaurant area itself provides a pleasant dining experience with scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a secluded location nestled amidst the mountains, offering a tranquil escape with breathtaking natural views. It provides convenient access to the Shinhotaka Ropeway, being only a short drive or a few bus stops away, making it an excellent base for exploring the Japanese Alps and various hiking trails. However, guests should be aware that there are no convenience stores, supermarkets, or other restaurants in the immediate vicinity, necessitating careful planning for meals and supplies. While public transport is available, bus services can be infrequent, and reaching the hotel from some bus stops may involve navigating a steep uphill path. Ample free parking is provided on-site, making the hotel particularly well-suited for guests traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight the multilingual foreign staff, who are proficient in both English and Japanese, ensuring smooth communication and a welcoming atmosphere for international visitors. The check-in process is generally described as efficient, with staff often waiting to greet arriving guests. However, some guests note that staff availability can be limited during certain hours, particularly after 9:00 PM, when the front desk may be unattended, requiring guests to use a phone system for urgent needs. Despite being a small team, the staff are commended for their dedication to providing good service, including assistance with luggage and even helping guests whose vehicles became stuck in snow. Their warm and personalized approach contributes significantly to a positive guest experience, making visitors feel well cared for throughout their stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel operates with a no-shoe policy inside the building, with shared slippers provided at the entrance. While the hotel offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, some guests describe it as feeling somewhat deserted or eerily quiet, especially during off-peak times, which can contribute to a sense of peaceful solitude. A minor onsen tax of 150 yen per person per night is applied, which guests should factor into their budget. The hotel's overall ambiance often evokes a nostalgic feeling of a past era, with some appreciating its "90s heyday" charm and the sense of "old money luxury" it once exuded. It is important to note that the natural hot spring water in the rooms has a distinct sulfur smell, which is characteristic of the mineral-rich springs in the area. Additionally, some rooms are equipped with VHS and DVD players, adding to the retro appeal.