Aspen Shiga
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 158 reviews
Nestled in the heart of the Shiga Kogen mountains, Aspen Shiga embodies the essence of a ryokan at Yamanouchi with its warm and relaxing ambiance. The establishment invites total disconnection thanks to its onsen hot spring bath, ideal for revitalizing body and mind after a day full of activities. With a soothing lounge adorned with a fireplace and free Wi-Fi access, every corner of this ryokan is designed to offer a perfect balance between modernity and Japanese traditions.
Respecting Japanese aesthetics, the rooms are refined and welcoming, adorned with woven straw tatami mats and equipped with comfortable futons. During your stay, you can choose a room with private toilets or opt for a more traditional experience with shared facilities. Each room enjoys a calming view of the surrounding natural landscapes, reinforcing the feeling of serenity unique to this place.
Authentic flavors are in the spotlight thanks to the on-site restaurant offering meals that fuse Japanese and Western gastronomy. Start your day with a breakfast of homemade bread and indulge in a carefully prepared dinner by reservation. For culinary exploration enthusiasts, several local restaurants are easily accessible, promising a gourmet discovery of the region.
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A Genius discount of 10% or more may apply via this link.
Japanese Authenticity Rating
5/10 Offering a nice winter local integration, this ryokan combines modernity and traditions at a moderate level. The tatami rooms and baths add a touch of authenticity, but some aspects lack depth. The atmosphere is warm, but the culinary experience seems more family-oriented than traditional and refined.
Highlights of the Ryokan
Hot spring/onsen
Public bath
Wi-Fi connection
Parking
Air conditioning
Breakfast
Positive Reviews
Perfect ski-in, ski-out location
The hotel is right on the slopes, with easy access to multiple lifts and the Giant ski area, making it ideal for ski-in, ski-out convenience. Great for families and ski enthusiasts.
Friendly and helpful staff
Guests consistently mention the staff as very friendly, helpful, and accommodating, always ready to assist and make the stay enjoyable. The management is praised for their hospitality.
Delicious food and varied meals
Buffet breakfasts and dinners are frequently described as very good, with a variety of local and Japanese specialties. Lunches and bakery items are also appreciated for their quality.
Comfortable traditional Japanese rooms
Rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, with futons and tatami mats offering an authentic Japanese experience. Many found the rooms perfect for relaxing after skiing.
Relaxing onsen experience
The onsen is a highlight for many guests, providing a great way to unwind after a day on the slopes. The facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Convenient ski equipment rental
Guests appreciate the convenience of renting ski equipment directly at the hotel, with good rates and well-maintained gear. Ski passes are also easy to obtain on site.
Negative Reviews
Limited dining options in the evening
After the gondola stops running in the late afternoon, guests are mostly limited to dinner at the hotel, with few other options available nearby. This can affect variety for longer stays.
Food temperature and variety at buffets
Some guests mention that buffet food, especially at breakfast and dinner, is often cold or lacks variety. Improvements in hot food options would be appreciated.
Older building and basic amenities
The hotel is described as an older building, with simple, traditional decor. While comfortable, it may not match the expectations of those seeking modern luxury.
No private bathrooms in some rooms
A few rooms do not have private baths or showers, and guests must use the onsen or shared facilities instead. This may be less convenient for some families.
Wifi connectivity issues
Several guests report that the wifi connection can be unreliable or slow, which may be inconvenient for those needing consistent internet access.
Dinner price can be high
Some guests feel that the price for dinner is a bit expensive compared to the overall offering, though other meals and services are reasonably priced.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM and check-out must be completed before 10:00 AM. Please indicate your arrival time in advance.
What languages are spoken at Aspen Shiga?
The staff at Aspen Shiga primarily speaks Japanese.
Are there hot spring baths (onsen) available at the establishment?
Yes, Aspen Shiga offers an indoor hot spring bath that guests can use to relax after a day of activities.
What dining services are offered?
Breakfast includes Japanese and Western flavors, usually in buffet form in winter. The Aspen restaurant also offers bread, pastries, and a limited menu for lunch. Dinner is available upon request and for an additional fee.
Is parking available for guests?
Yes, free private parking is available on-site for our guests, with no prior reservation needed.
What are the house rules and restrictions?
Aspen Shiga is entirely non-smoking and does not accept pets. Cash is not accepted as a payment method.
What activities and attractions are available nearby?
Located opposite the Shiga Kogen ski resort, Aspen Shiga is ideal for skiing. The snow monkey park is a 20-minute drive away, and you can explore the Shiga Kogen Highlands biosphere reserve for the surrounding nature.
Are there any opportunities for cultural activities?
The Sake Storehouse Art Museum – Gallery Tamamura Honten is just 10 km away, offering an enriching cultural experience on art and sake.
How can I reach Aspen Shiga by public transport?
The establishment offers a free shuttle from Hasuike bus stop, located 5 minutes away by car. You will need to call upon arrival to use this service.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed at Aspen Shiga.
What wellness services are available on-site?
Aspen Shiga features a hot spring/onsen and a public bath for the relaxation and well-being of its guests.
Do you offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the establishment for our guests.
