Yamadaya Ryokan

Location was fantastic, right in the main village - We walked over from the bus terminal, even with luggage, we had no issues finding the property. The Ryokan is only a 1 minute walk to convenience store/liquor store, and a 1 minute walk to our favorite local bar (Balance) which also had video games and ping pong (kids allowed). Also a late night ramen shop around the corner. The Ryokan is very traditional with tatami floor mats/futon style sleeping. It has its own small onsen downstairs which at times got very hot (pro tip: add cold water to balance out the temp). We enjoyed a morning and/or evening dip before and after skiing - which was never crowded during our 5-day stay. You are also near several of the towns 'free" local onsens. These are very barebones and traditional. If you prefer an onsen with more amenities 'Furusato-no-yu' was a 3-min walk away, had a large indoor and outdoor - paid onsen, which we loved. Also about a 10-15min walk was a coed/mixed gender onsen (SPArena) that my daughter preferred (age 10). The front desk helped us with all our questions, and arrangements. We found quite a few restaurants needed reservations ahead of time, but some welcomed walk-in's right when they opened. Overall a great experience and we hope to visit Nozawaonsen again, and would absolutely stay at this property again.

The Ryokan is centrally located, but is a bit of a steep trek uphill to the moving escalator and ski resort/gondola. We walked uphill in normal shoes/blundstone boots, and then rented a small locker (bring coins) to stash our shoes/any additional gear. No fault of the property, but should be noted; if walking up steep hills with skis might be an issue.

Lovely property, cute rooms with comfy beds, close to the slopes and close to a great bar. The couple that ran the stay were incredibly kind and accomodating.

Great location in Nozawa Onsen for families chasing the snow and can store skis and boards and the futon beds where great! Internet was fast.

Shared bathroom and spa very hot and for my tall husband and son they did have to duck in doorways

The staff took such thoughtful care of us, always ensuring we returned safely from the mountain. We truly felt our wellbeing mattered. I also fell in love with the traditional Japanese house and their heartfelt hospitality