A small town in Japan's Nagano Prefecture, Yamanouchi is famous for two things: its proximity to Japan’s largest ski area, and its impressive monkey park. The town's accommodation options range from simple lodges to charming traditional hotels, fit for a host of tastes and budgets. Book a room at one of the best places to stay in Yamanouchi for a winter or summer holiday to remember!

Keen skiers or snowboarders will be thrilled to discover the snow-clad slopes of Shiga Kogen in winter. The site of the some of the events of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, Yamanouchi has long been popular with Japanese visitors, who appreciate its proximity to Tokyo. Japan’s biggest ski resort, this is a fantastic spot for thrill-seekers of all ages, with stunning mountain views and a range of pistes for beginners as well as seasoned experts. The Joshinetsu Kogen National Park is brilliant for hiking and mountain biking in the summer months, whilst Shibu Onsen has an old-fashioned feel and plenty of hot spring baths for unwinding.

The Jigokudani Monkey Park, where wild Japanese Macaques — often dubbed ’Snow Monkeys’ — bathe in a natural hot spring is not to be missed. It’s most striking in January or February; also a great time for skiing. The best places to stay in Yamanouchi fill up fast during this season, do plan your trip well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Yamanouchi

For Traditional Charm

• Aburaya Tousen is a small boutique property with rooms for couples, friends and families. Interiors are classic in appearance, with futon bedding, low wooden tables and an earthy colour palette. Some rooms have Western beds. Hot spring baths are brilliant for long soaks after days of hiking or skiing. Lovely and low-key.
• Senjukaku is a charming traditional hotel with Japanese-style rooms featuring tatami matting and low tables. Unwind in soothing onsens, admire tranquil forest views, and enjoy flavoursome local cuisine in the restaurant. A rejuvenating hotel for quiet travellers and romantic couples.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY LODGE

• 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 to Yamanouchi by train via Nagano Station. The journey should take three hours by rail.
• The Nagano region is wonderful to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers are warm, with temperatures hovering between 20 and 25°C, and great for hiking and mountain biking. If you're looking to hit the slopes, travel between November and early March, when you can expect the best snow. For a quieter trip and great hotel deals, we'd recommend visiting in early autumn.

Still Not Sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Madarao.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.