Photo of Minamiuonuma

About Minamiuonuma

An idyllic mountain hideaway in the Niikata Prefecture, just under two hours from Tokyo, Minamiuonuma is a wonderful holiday destination. Expect outdoorsy activities aplenty throughout the year, as well as the opportunity to kick back in spectacular onsens within sight of the mountains. Ranging from simple cottages to chic, design-led hotels, the best places to stay in Minamiuonuma promise a brilliant base for couples, families and friends.

Travel during the summer and autumn months for hiking, fishing and mountain biking in the foothills and the 2,000-metre peaks of the surrounding mountains. Dramatic Mount Makihata is a particular highlight. For a more laid-back trip, visit some of Japan’s top sake breweries — made from what is reputedly the best rice in the country — or admire contemporary art and sculptures at the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field. Come winter, you can hone your skiing and snowboarding skills on the slopes of Minamiuonuma and nearby Yuzawa. The season starts in earnest from late December, and lasts until early May. Cross-country skiing is also popular.

Cultural attractions include Urasa Bishamondo, the Shizowajuku area and Untoan Temple. Kick back at one of the best places to stay in Minamiuonuma and sample local specialities with beautiful views throughout the year.

The Best Places to Stay in Minamiuonuma

For Boutique Chic

  • Satoyama Jujo is a gorgeous, 13-room hotel with sleek, minimalist interiors in a stunning mountain setting. A design-led hideaway with a contemporary art collection, striking outdoor onsen and access to hiking, skiing and biking, this is a very special spot. The cuisine is also superb.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Tokyo's Haneda International Airport or to Narita International Airport and travel by train from central Tokyo to Minamiuonuma in under two hours.
  • The Niigata region is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Summers and autumns are warm, with temperatures hovering between 20 and 27°C. This is is the best time to hike and relax. For skiing, travel between Januay and early April. Winters are cold but cosy.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Minamiuonuma

Best Hotels in Minamiuonuma

  • Maruyama Onsen Kojyokan Minamiuonuma 17 rooms from €180

    Skiing  -  There are skis and snowboards for rent on site and some of Japan's best skiing is on the doorstep
    Total relaxation  -  Experience the healing powers of the Ishiuchi region's natural hot springs in the communal onsen
    Restaurant  -  Experience the best ingredients Minamiuonuma has to offer including Echigo mochi pork
    Private Onsen  -  Indulge in a completely private, rooftop open air hot spring bath
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    A stylish ryokan nestled in the stunning Uon Valley. Spacious rooms and suites are both Japanese and Western in style. Plus there's a range of onsens including a private rooftop option with lovely views. Fantastic dinners are made with the very best local produce. A gorgeous alpine retreat. See More

    Check Availability
  • Satoyama Jujo Minamiuonuma (Minami-uonuma-shi) 13 rooms from €488

    Skiing  -  Minamiuonuma & neighboring Yuzawa boast more than 20 ski resorts, with ski schools open from December to April
    Foodies  -  The restaurant follows a farm-to-fork ethos, serving gourmet cuisine inspired by the Minamiuonuma region
    Mountain biking  -  Hire bicycles to explore the surrounding mountain trails on two wheels during the summer months
    Back to Nature  -  A perfect destination to reconnect with nature, enjoy long hikes and soak in a hot spring onsen
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Design Hotels, Tablet

    A small luxury hotel in a spectacular & secluded mountain location. Chic, minimalist rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and light wooden walls. The exemplary restaurant serves delectable organic fare, and there's a strong focus on art & design. Unwind in the hotel's superb onsen. A spoiling stay. See More

    Check Availability