Shoraiso

381-0401 Nagano, Yamanouchi, Hirao 3071-1, Japan

Guest reviews: 9.5

HOTEL OVERVIEW

Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Nagano Prefecture, the 5-star Shoraiso offers an unparalleled luxury experience that harmoniously blends traditional Japanese hospitality with modern elegance. Located at Hirao 3071-1 in Yamanouchi, this exceptional establishment has earned an outstanding 9.5 rating from guests, placing it among Japan’s most prestigious and highly-acclaimed accommodations. Shoraiso stands as a beacon of refined comfort in Yamanouchi, a region renowned for its natural hot springs, breathtaking alpine landscapes, and proximity to the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors can observe Japanese macaques bathing in steaming onsen waters. The hotel’s strategic location provides convenient access to the celebrated snow resorts of Shiga Kogen, making it an ideal retreat for both winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking serene natural beauty throughout the seasons. The exceptional 9.5 rating of Shoraiso speaks volumes about its commitment to excellence in every aspect of the guest experience. From the moment visitors step into the elegantly appointed lobby, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility and refined luxury that reflects Japan’s dedication to omotenashi—the art of wholehearted hospitality. Guest rooms and suites at Shoraiso are masterfully designed sanctuaries that showcase meticulous attention to detail, featuring premium amenities, supremely comfortable bedding, and in many cases, private outdoor baths fed by mineral-rich natural hot springs. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, creating a seamless connection between the interior luxury and the majestic natural environment that defines the Nagano region. The property’s thermal baths, or onsen, represent the pinnacle of Japanese bathing culture, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in healing waters while contemplating snow-capped peaks or star-filled skies. The culinary journey at Shoraiso elevates the hotel experience to extraordinary heights, with seasonal kaiseki dining that celebrates the bounty of Nagano Prefecture. Expert chefs transform locally-sourced ingredients into artistic expressions of Japanese gastronomy, with each dish thoughtfully prepared to delight both the palate and the eye. The attentive yet unobtrusive service at Shoraiso reflects generations of hospitality tradition, with staff members anticipating guests’ needs and providing personalized attention that has contributed significantly to the hotel’s exceptional rating. Whether enjoying a traditional tea ceremony, participating in a guided meditation session, or simply relaxing in the serenity of this mountain retreat, guests at Shoraiso are treated to an authentic Japanese luxury experience that honors the country’s cultural heritage while providing all the comforts expected of a world-class 5-star establishment. For travelers seeking to experience the natural splendor, cultural richness, and legendary hospitality of Japan, Shoraiso in Yamanouchi represents the perfect destination—a sanctuary where time seems to slow, allowing for profound relaxation and rejuvenation in one of Japan’s most breathtaking settings.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

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Reviews

Staff: 10

Comfort: 9.6

Location: 9.8

Facilities: 9.7

Cleanliness: 10

Value for money: 9.2

Ana from Spain (19 December 2024)

10/10

Amazing property with even more amazing staff. We stayed for two night during our honeymoon and couldn’t be happier with the experience. It was an authentic yet luxurious Ryokan. Our room was beautifully decorated, spotless and it even had its own onsen. The food was exceptional and the staff was very well trained and extremely friendly. Highly...

Ana from Spain (19 December 2024)

10/10

Amazing property with even more amazing staff.
We stayed for two night during our honeymoon and couldn’t be happier with the experience.
It was an authentic yet luxurious Ryokan. Our room was beautifully decorated, spotless and it even had its own onsen. The food was exceptional and the staff was very well trained and extremely friendly. Highly recommended this hotel and would love to go back on day.

What could be improved: Nothing

Dave from Thailand (15 February 2025)

9/10

Outstanding property from top to bottom. Friendly and accommodating staff, beautiful rooms, fantastic food. A real authentic Japanese Ryokan experience. The rooms have a private hot spring bath and there is the option to use the public baths as well. The private dining experience was first class food and service. The rooms are large and...

Dave from Thailand (15 February 2025)

9/10

Outstanding property from top to bottom. Friendly and accommodating staff, beautiful rooms, fantastic food.
A real authentic Japanese Ryokan experience. The rooms have a private hot spring bath and there is the option to use the public baths as well. The private dining experience was first class food and service. The rooms are large and comfortable with everything you need to relax.

What could be improved: I think they should offer the pickup shuttle during the booking process. We walked from the train station with 3 suitcases in the snow, which was not that far but uphill and a bit inconvenient. However I should have enquired about this myself so it's really not a big deal and the service overall was outstanding

Hao from United States (8 February 2025)

10/10

Great service, nice room and aesthetic building

Yuemeng from United Kingdom (23 January 2025)

10/10

We had a great stay at Shoraiso for our honeymoon in December. Service is unparalleled and the staff are doing above and beyond to make us feel like home without being intrusive. We love the elephant decor of the room and the beautifully landscaped garden, and the private onsen is definitely the highlight of our trip. Breakfast and dinner are...

Yuemeng from United Kingdom (23 January 2025)

10/10

We had a great stay at Shoraiso for our honeymoon in December. Service is unparalleled and the staff are doing above and beyond to make us feel like home without being intrusive. We love the elephant decor of the room and the beautifully landscaped garden, and the private onsen is definitely the highlight of our trip. Breakfast and dinner are included and the food is just exceptional (very tasty with fresh local ingredient and creative presentation). The location is quite convenient - 45min train from Nagano to Yudanaka station and hotel is just a few min drive away (the hotel can arrange pick up). Monkey park is quite close (around 15min taxi away). Overall we couldn’t recommend this hotel more!

What could be improved: Nothing. Everything is perfect.

Hiu from Australia (23 December 2024)

10/10

The room was very spacious which allow dinner to be served in the room. Excellent food and value for money.

What could be improved: Nothing dislike. Everything exceed 5 starts.

Joanne from Canada (14 December 2024)

10/10

This place is exceptional. Staff, food, room everything. Please disregard any other reviews!

What could be improved: Nothing

Johee from United Kingdom (30 May 2024)

9/10

Loved their public bath and the food

Tracy from United States (7 November 2024)

4/10

The staff is kind, it’s a very clean facility and the location is pretty nice.

What could be improved: The bed. Their idea of a western bed is nuts. Worst bed I slept in, in Japan. Maybe one of the worst beds on a vacation - ever. It was like sleeping just on a box springs, no mattress.

Hidetoshi from Japan (1 January 2025)

9/10

雪景色の自分の庭を見ながらの温泉は素晴らしく、何回も入ってしまった。また美しい皿と同じく盛り付けの料理は美味しく、何より個室でゆっくり食べれたのが更に良かった。アテンドいただいた方の対応も自然で、是非また利用したいです。

What could be improved: お土産コーナーがあり、その場でぱっと払いトランクにしまおうと思ったが、しばらく話すとつまり部屋付け&チェックアウト時にお渡しとのことだった。
他のホテルではあまり無いので、自分だけかもしれないが理解できるまでかなり時間がかかった。

全部の利用料金を一つの請求にまとめたいホテルの意向は分かるが、お土産コーナーに説明書きがあるといいがもしれない。

Kaoru from Japan (21 December 2024)

10/10

料理が丁寧に作られていてとても美味しかったです。誕生日と伝えたら、シャンパンのサービスやちょっとしたプレゼントもいただけて、とても嬉しかったです。
部屋は清潔感があってとても綺麗でした。レトロな棚も風情があって良かった。1泊だともったいないと感じました。
温泉もすごく気持ちよかったです。

What could be improved: 特にない。

SURROUNDINGS

What's nearby:

  • Floral Garden Obuse: 15 km
  • Japan Clay Dolls Museum: 4.9 km
  • Issa Yukari Sato Issa Museum: 12 km
  • Mayumi Takahashi Doll Museum: 17 km
  • Sake Storehouse Art Museum - Gallery Tamamura Honten: 1.7 km

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Cafe/bar桂亭: 16 km
  • Restaurant Sobaroku: 2.6 km
  • Cafe/barティーサロン 都: 450 m

Natural beauty:

  • Lake Hasuike Pond: 12 km
  • Mountain Shimotakai: 0 m

Ski lifts:

  • Yomase Quad Lift: 6 km
  • Yomase No. 1 Lift: 5 km
  • Yomase No. 5 Lift: 6 km

Public transport:

  • Train Iiyama Station: 16 km
  • Train Yudanaka Station: 550 m

ROOMS

  • Estimated price from: $910. Quadruple Room with Private External Bathroom with 4 futon beds for 1 - 2 guests
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FACILITIES

General:

  • Adults only
  • Designated smoking area
  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Heating
  • Lift
  • Non-smoking rooms

Outdoors:

  • Terrace
  • Garden

Services:

  • Shuttle service
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Shared lounge/T V area
  • Private check-in/check-out
  • Concierge service
  • Luggage storage
  • Room service

Wellness:

  • Public Bath
  • Open-air bath
  • Hot spring bath
  • Hot tub/Jacuzzi
  • Spa and wellness centre
  • Sauna Additional charge

Food & Drink:

  • Coffee house on site
  • Wine/champagne Additional charge
  • Special diet menus (on request)
  • Breakfast in the room
  • Bar

Languages spoken:

  • English
  • Japanese

Safety & security:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • CCTV outside property
  • Smoke alarms
  • Security alarm
  • Key access
  • 24-hour security
  • Safety deposit box

Reception services:

  • Invoice provided

Most popular facilities:

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Free parking
  • Spa and wellness centre
  • Room service
  • Free WiFi
  • Hot spring bath
  • Bar
  • Breakfast

Parking Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed).:

  • Electric vehicle charging station
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HOUSE RULES

Pets:

  • Pets are not allowed.

Parties:

  • Parties/events are not allowed

Check-in:

  • From 15:00 to 18:00
  • You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.

Check-out:

  • From 08:00 to 11:00

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.

HOTEL ADDRESS

381-0401 Nagano, Yamanouchi, Hirao 3071-1, Japan

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