My family of 5(A) had a wonderful stay at Kamesei Ryokan, owned by the most hospitable, kind, and gracious hosts, husband/wife Tyler-san and Mari-san. The ryokan is close to many local food places, other public onsen bath houses, walking distance to local shops, sights/attractions, and is a 20-30mins walk to the local subway, Togura Station. The JR stations Shinonoi, Nagano, and Ueda are between 15-30 mins away using the local Shinano Railway line, and are a gateway to major tourists attractions in the Nagano Prefecture (eg. Matsumoto Castle | Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park | Zenkō-ji Temple). Communication with the hosts is superb. All my messages were answered promptly, with any queries, issues, and concerns addressed in a timely manner. I initially booked the 1st level Standard room, however, after communicating with Tyler-san, I was able to adjust the reservation to the ground level Deluxe room with its own private open-air onsen bath. We appreciated the fact that we were also able to stay in both the deluxe rooms (Sueh + Kodakara). Tyler-san also offered us a discount as we were staying for 6 nights. The total booking price was both competitive and, in my opinion, unbeatable! We also opted to take up the 2hrs walking tour provided by their Zukudashi eco-self Tour company, and it was an enjoyable experience, with Tyler-san providing a wealth of historical knowledge, information and endearing anecdotes about the beautiful Togura-Kamiyamada Onsen Town. Our stay exceeded all my expectations! Tyler-san and Mari-san were both helpful and accommodated all our needs. Tyler-san even helped us organise our Yamato luggage transfer to our next destination and offered us lifts to the Togura Station. Overall, we had a relaxing and rejuvenating time at Kamesei Ryokan and would highly recommend this place to stay should you happen to stop by Nagano Prefecture. Personally, I could very easily get used to the private onsen bath, and I did not want to leave!

As with 95% of Japanese accommodation, unfortunately, the walls are what you might describe as "paper-thin", and with any traditional ryokan, this is what you would or could expect in these type of establishments. So be prepared to hear loud and, at times, boisterous conversations that can be at best, "entertaining", or at worse, cause you to lose sleep if it goes on well into the night.

Welcoming & hospitable, Tyler greeted us from the train station and drove us to the Ryokan. We had tea & his famous Seattle cookies before enjoying a traditional Japanese dinner (highly recommend). Our family used the private outdoor onsen which was excellent after a long day of travelling & sightseeing. The futon bed was warm & comfortable. There's so many little details that made this experience so unique & memorable. Tyler told our kids to find a hidden pickle tree ornament on the Christmas tree, which they happily searched, found & were rewarded with a chocolate treat. Tyler also helped us arrange for luggage transfer & accommodated us for early morning breakfast & taxi ride. You wouldn't regret staying at Kamesei Ryokan!

The service. We can not fault the service. Tyler and his team go out of their way to make our stay an enjoyable one

We didnt come at the right time of the year. It was freezing cold and winter. Your room and the bathroom are heated but the toilet and the corridors were cold. Also, there was no lift so we , with the help of the Ryokan staff, had to lug our suitcases up and down 2 flights of stairs. Not a big deal though.

This accommodation was a highlight in our trip. The room was so comfortable and lovely and warm in winter. Tyler our host went above and beyond to ensure we had a lovely stay and was able to help us with our itinerary. The onsens were amazing and such a beautiful relaxing part of our day. The kids game room was a bonus. There was also onsite parking which was brilliant. Overall we felt so incredibly welcome and I would highly recommend staying here.

Nothing- it was brilliant

The location in the little village atmosphere. The lobby was big and beautiful. It was very traditional to move around inside the building which was light filled with the glass overlooking the gardens. Ping pong room what great for adults and kids! Friendly all round.

There was nothing I didn’t like.

Loved that this beautiful inn was outside the city. Tyler picked/dropped us from Togura train station so it was convenient. It was nice to be able to recharge and relax here. The onsens were great. Only regret is we didn’t stay longer to explore more of the town. All the staff were very welcoming and helpful.

Nil.

Traditional Ryokan with good location. Have been to this place two times already, 24h Onsen access, spacious rooms, and I really recommend the japanese breakfast & Kaiseki style Dinner! Tyler is a great and very helpful host. See you next time :)

Everything. The hosts were great. Tyler picked us up from the station and drove us up to an overlook of the city and pointed all the interesting locations out to us. Dinner and breakfast were delicious and filling. The onsens were great, and the beds were really comfortable.

We only had one day here, I wish we had more.

Wonderful funky place - felt like stepping back in time. Tyler and Mari were very welcoming and gave us great suggestions for dinner and travels. The breakfast was fantastic. Onsen delightful. Highly recommend

Wished we could have stayed another night to explore the town

Onsen and baths are brilliant. Foutons are really comfortable. The owner helps and provides you with all the needed traditional dressings

Breakfast is not value for money. Even kids will pay full ammount. Needs some refurbishment