Overview

At the base of the Japanese Alps and a short ride from Matsumoto, Hotel New Kotobuki welcomes you with views of Mt. Norikura and the peaceful streets of an old castle town. Soak in the soft waters of Utsukushigahara Onsen, savor Shinshu specialties, and relax in a quiet, Japanese-style retreat designed to refresh your body and mind. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or traveling solo, you’ll find space to rest and room to breathe.

Accommodation

Choose from several Japanese-style rooms, each designed for comfort and simplicity. The largest room fits up to eight people and offers dual toilets and basins, perfect for group stays. Several rooms feature sweeping views of the Northern Alps or the rustic townscape of Matsumoto. One room includes a private open-air hot spring bath for an added touch of luxury.

All rooms include a washlet toilet, and most feature a unit bath. Rooms are non-smoking and include tea sets, yukata, TV, air purifiers, and heating. At check-in, you can select a colored yukata to wear throughout your stay. Tatami floors, low tables, and soft lighting help you unwind in classic Japanese style.

Dining

Dinner highlights local ingredients from the Shinshu region. Enjoy Shinshu wagyu steak grilled on a ceramic plate, fresh river fish like char and iwana, and seasonal vegetables from nearby fields. For a premium experience, order sashimi of wild trout, handmade soba, or grilled sea bream served whole.

The kitchen offers meal upgrades like horse sashimi or celebratory sea bream platters. Meals are served in private dining rooms, creating an intimate setting where you can enjoy local sake and seasonal flavors in peace.

Breakfast features hot miso soup, rice, grilled fish, and fresh sides, served in a set menu rather than buffet style. You’ll start your day with nourishing, homemade dishes that reflect the season.

Onsen and Wellness

Hotel New Kotobuki offers access to one of Utsukushigahara’s most beloved assets—its natural hot spring water. The waters are clear, slightly alkaline, and gentle on your skin. They warm you deeply and keep you comfortable long after your bath.

Step into the large public bath and soak under high ceilings and soft lights. The water comes in at around 42.8°C and soothes muscle pain, joint stiffness, and fatigue. The baths include body soap, shampoo, conditioner, and facial wash. In the changing rooms, you’ll find lotion, hair dryers, and other basic amenities.

A private outdoor bath is also available by reservation. This option allows you to enjoy the open air and the calm of Matsumoto’s hills in peaceful privacy.

Guests with Tattoos

The hotel does not mention tattoo restrictions for the public bath. To be safe, consider contacting the front desk in advance if this applies to you.

Facilities

The inn includes a range of spaces to suit your needs. Host a meeting in the conference room or enjoy a meal in one of several banquet halls, available in Japanese-style or with table seating. You can also purchase regional souvenirs at the lobby shop, which is open from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Smoking is only allowed in designated indoor areas. Guest rooms and shared spaces remain non-smoking to ensure a comfortable environment for all.

Activities

Take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to Matsumoto Castle, the art museum, and scenic nature walks in the Northern Alps. In winter, nearby slopes offer light snow activities. The staff also provides support for university exam takers with special stays and shuttle service to Shinshu University.

Additional Features

• Free parking for up to 60 cars
• 22 rooms accommodating up to 100 people
• Check-in: 3:00 p.m. / Check-out: 10:00 a.m.
• Credit cards accepted: JCB, DC, VISA
• Microwaves available in shared spaces
• Custom anniversary meals and local water bottled as souvenirs