Ryokans in Ogano

We stayed here one night and it was the best decision ever. While it is expensive, it is worth every yen, the rooms were beautiful, service impeccable, free amenities, free private sauna, and traditional breakfast brought straight to your room. It was perfect for a night after a hike down from Mitsumine shrine in the rain and thunder. HIGHLY recommend!! Thanks a lot

Wonderful host and staff, they always made sure we were comfortable. Even gave recommendations about what to do in the area! Breakfast was amazing, we were able to select different kind of fish each morning. The baths are amazing also and the rooms are clean. Great service in english as well as japanese. The ryokan is very peaceful!

The wood panelled rooms were well crafted and smelled of cedar. Everything was pleasing to the senses, the view, touch, smell, ambience, the taste of breakfast. The bath was especially lovely. They also have two bikes available to use, and I made use of one of them to explore before leaving.

First of all, the room itself is way larger than you would normally expect in Japan, so plenty of space if you have extra luggage. Plus plenty of amenities, free parking, and helpful (as well as English speaking) staff. The hotel is also located on a large hill overlooking Chichibu, and the view from the room (especially if you can get one on the upper floors) is simply amazing! Better still, you get a very nice traditional Japanese bathroom, that borders on a private onsen, with a large window right next to the bath. I have no complaints about the communal onsen, but if you want a proper onsen experience, there are better places to stay. HOWEVER, wait until nightfall, and prepare a bath in your own room, and then you can relax in the hot water whilst watching all the lights of pretty much the entirety of Chichibu - a view I daresay very few proper onsen hotels can offer, and which is truly spectacular!

Located halfway up a hill overlooking magnificent mountains

located in the mountains. is immersed in nature.

Walking around the parks: The paths were clearly marked and well-troddened , so there's less risks of getting lost if you followed the trails. Lots of fungi and we found snake skins around, there must be snakes. We didn't see any during our 4-hr walk. The birds started chirping happily when it started to snow. There was breeze.. it's so quiet you'd hear the rustling of leaves. Our meals: Fine Japanese dining. Each dish was perfectly cooked, the chef was very skilled and meticulous with his dishes. Each meal included a wide array of dishes ranging from appetizers, soups, proteins and starches. Each meal was very filling and satisfying. The service was also top notch with the waiters explaining dishes with limited English. There's a menu for drinks, the meals come with water and ocha. Overall a superb dining experience. The onsen: The renovations were onsite , the male section was closed, we had to rotate , men get certain hours and ladies get some slots. As it was off season when we were there, we managed to book a private session to ourselves- my son and I. There's a large hot pool, a very good sauna- the shower area: shampoo, conditioner and body wash provided for. The usual good onsen practice applies here, wash yourself before entering the pool. Once you dried yourself, in the dressing area, there are seats with hair dryer, body lotion, etc. very pampering. If you're familiar with ryokans this is similar.