4-Star Hotels in Gunma Prefecture, Japan

The hotel is quite a walk from the bus center, and the uneven roads make it inconvenient for luggage; taxis are also scarce. The room is spacious, and the tatami area with heating was very comfortable. It was handy to be able to pick up yukata (robes) for men and women in the lobby. The service level at the hotel's front desk was generally poor. They didn't even bother with a fake smile, haha 😂. Japanese service is becoming more expensive and the quality is getting worse – a clear sign of decline. The hot spring pool in the hotel is very small and the facilities are quite old, so don't expect too much. My favorite part was still the Nishinokawara露天温泉 (outdoor hot spring) outside the hotel. It's 100% natural mountain spring water, so healing! For 800 yen, there are no services, no showers, and you need to bring your own towel. It was totally worth the trip and instantly made up for the round-trip train ticket from Tokyo.

We stayed in Naraya House for 1 night and it was perfect. The staffs were all very kind and helpful that I am truly grateful for all their assistance given throughout our stay. We had a suite, rm no.206, it was stunningly amazing! I only know I am booking a suite with a beautiful view of the yubatake and private onsen. I didn't know it's a gigantic duplex suite with the best view of the yubatake! The room door opens to a western style living and dining area that fits with a set of sofa for 6 and a dining table for 4 with 2 benches. To the left of this western style area is 2 double beds, a walk-in closet and a toilet. I could see Japanese syle beddings in a cupboard which I believe they would be made when the room is booked for more than 2 persons. Facing the sofa is a TV panel. Behind the TV is a Japanese style sitting area with a coffee table and a view of the yubatake. The view is picturesque. There you can also find a stairs going down to the suite's private onsen bath. It's actually on a balcony overlooking the yubatake, the same gorgeous view as in its Japanese style sitting area above, just without the windows, ie closer and clearer picture of the yubatake without reflections. But be aware ppl on the street can see u too, as you can see the windows r just next to 7.11 The meal provided was fantastic. I particularly enjoyed the freshly made sushi. The salmon roe was just so fresh that they were actually shining like marbles. All the ingredients used are high quality. My kid, who is usually picky on food, was pleased with the menu. He already wanted to come back again. Next time, we will stay here for more nights in order to better experience the beauty of Kusatzu. Ps I usually don't bother to write a review, I am doing this one in return to the hotel's great service and hospitality. Thank you and until next time~

We had a wonderful stay at Urakusatsu Tou, a brand-new hotel that truly exceeded our expectations. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly escorted by the staff. Although parking was allocated at a private outdoor parking area, the hotel thoughtfully provided an escort service, making the process very smooth and comfortable. The room was spacious and beautifully designed. Communication was easy as the receptionist spoke fluent English. The hotel also provided pajamas and daily clothing, which was a lovely and convenient touch. The onsen experience was outstanding—definitely one of the best we’ve ever had. You can immediately feel your skin becoming smooth after soaking, which made each visit incredibly relaxing. We stayed for three nights with both breakfast and dinner included. Meals were served à la carte, and the menu changed daily, surprising us every time. The food was delicious and very filling—we were completely satisfied after every meal. That said, there are a few areas we hope the hotel could improve: • During winter, the room felt quite cold as the air-conditioning heater did not function properly and was unable to warm up the room. • Breakfast hours could be extended a little later for guests who prefer a more relaxed morning. • Providing a choice of pillows would further improve sleeping comfort. • The blue indicator light on the room’s control panel remains very bright even when all lights are turned off, which can be a bit distracting at night. Overall, this hotel offers excellent service, comfort, and an unforgettable onsen and dining experience. Highly recommended, and we believe it will be even better with these small improvements.

The entire hot spring town is absolutely beautiful. Since it was newly renovated in 2024, there was no musty smell in the room. The staff were professional, polite, and warmly welcoming without being intrusive, and their English was excellent. There's a shuttle service from the hotel to the station, or you can walk there yourself. This hotel is exactly what I imagined a Japanese onsen hotel to be. The hotel's own hot springs are fantastic. The location is truly the best – some hotels are up in the mountains or require a bit of a walk, but Ichii offers direct views of Yubatake. On the first floor, there's also a large souvenir shop with many unique items that aren't available back home. I'd definitely choose to spend a whole day exploring Karuizawa and then stay at Ichii again!

Excellent Hotel Review Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The room was spotlessly clean, cozy, and well‑equipped. The staff were incredibly friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with a warm smile. The location is perfect—quiet yet close to attractions and restaurants. The food was fresh and delicious with a great variety. I had a comfortable and memorable stay and will definitely return on my next visit. Highly recommended

Excellent value for money, with a half-board package that included dinner and breakfast. Dinner was very generous, though the aftertaste was just average; the Jōshū beef was the highlight. Breakfast quality was superb. Very satisfied with the cleanliness and comfort.

Both the facilities and the hot springs were top-notch. However, the food quality was a bit lacking. Also, the platform didn't inform us that the shuttle bus from Karuizawa to Kusatsu required advance booking, which caused us to miss the last public transport. We ended up having to pay a high taxi fare to get to the hotel.

Best place we have stayed in Gunma. Walking distance to tourist attractions and shuttle around Kusatsu going to the bus station. Restaurants, souvenir shops, and a 7-eleven around Kusatsu. Some restaurants might close early around 8PM. We love the experience of going around Kusatsu with the Yukata and slippers, just be mindful to have extra clothing underneath because it was cold during our stay and the Yukata might still be not enough. Vegetarian breakfast and welcome drinks available and included. They also have a restaurant wherein you can dip your feet while eating, if you like to experience. You also have a private hot tub. Room is spacious and feels elegant. Staffs are helpful and smiles always. Would definitely recommend for future stays.

The hotel is a bit of a drive from Karuizawa JR Station, about 35 minutes, and there's a toll fee. However, the scenery along the way is beautiful. Shiraito Falls is about 10 minutes away. The hotel parking lot is ample and very convenient. The hotel rooms are very spacious and comfortable. The hot springs are both indoor and outdoor, with an orange-brown color and a mild odor. Unfortunately, the outdoor hot springs don't allow for a view of the sky. The breakfast and dinner buffets offer a wide variety of options and are delicious. This hotel has a very resort-like feel and I'd definitely return if I had the chance. Figure 1: Scenery along the way Figure 2: View from the hotel window Figure 3: Nearby attractions (Shiraito Falls)

An oasis of calm in a stone’s throw away from Yubatake. Getting up here can be tricky if you drive but the staff are standing by to direct your car to the reserved parking lots. Breakfast and dinner were exquisite Kaiseki sets. The indoor/outdoor onsens were spacious and clean, with zen greenery surrounding the baths. Traditional rooms are spacious and cosy, with staff setting up the futons while you have dinner. Great place to stay with delicious food.