Overview
Tucked deep in the heart of the Northern Japan Alps, Kamikochi Nishi-Itoya Mountain Lodge offers you a peaceful escape into one of Japan’s most breathtaking alpine landscapes. Located 1,500 meters above sea level in Chubu-Sangaku National Park, the lodge looks out toward the Hodaka Mountains and the Azusa River. Whether you’re hiking, relaxing, or reconnecting with nature, you’ll feel grounded by the scenery and charmed by the warmth of the lodge itself.
Even if this is your first time hearing about Nishi-Itoya, it won’t be your last—many travelers return, bringing friends and family to share the view. As soon as you arrive, you’ll understand why.
Accommodation
Main Building Rooms
You step into a private room lined with the scent of Japanese larch. Calm surrounds you. The only sounds you hear are the flow of the Azusa River and the occasional breeze through the trees. Each room immerses you in quiet comfort and traditional simplicity.
Annex Rooms
For travelers looking for a more social or budget-friendly option, dormitory-style rooms in the annex offer shared accommodations for up to four people. You can stay with family or friends, or meet fellow adventurers along the way.
All rooms are non-smoking, with a designated outdoor smoking area near the entrance.
Dining
Main Building
Each evening, you enjoy a different traditional Japanese meal featuring seasonal ingredients. The spring menu might include mountain vegetables and locally sourced fish. Every dish reflects the nature and flavors of the Alps.
Annex
If you’re staying in the annex, you receive simpler meals—but they’re still thoughtfully prepared and satisfying. Like the main building, menus change nightly, giving you variety during your stay.
Onsen and Wellness
While your room doesn’t include a private bath, you have access to spacious public mineral baths. As you soak, your eyes take in the mountain range. On some mornings, the first rays of the sun tint the peaks a soft red—a moment of beauty that stays with you.
The baths include body soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Hours are:
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 8:00 AM
- Afternoon & Evening: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
To preserve the mountain environment, the annex does not have private baths.
Guests with Tattoos
There is no stated restriction regarding tattoos. If you have questions about bathing access, it’s a good idea to check with the lodge directly when making your reservation.
Facilities
Lobby
As you enter the main building, you notice the aroma of larch wood. You’re welcomed into a warm space filled with the essence of the forest. The carved stairway, the wood grain beneath your hands, and scenic photographs bring the mountains indoors.
Public Bath
Separate bathing areas for men and women provide a peaceful soak with an unforgettable view of the Hotaka range. Large windows let you gaze at the peaks as you bathe.
Tea Room “Green Pot”
Grab a free cup of tea or coffee while watching the river flow by. The tea room is open in the morning and evening for overnight guests, and welcomes day visitors during lunch hours.
- Guest hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM, 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Non-guest hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Lunch: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
- Closed Thursdays and 1st/3rd Wednesdays
Lounge
You can sit and relax with a book, browse photo albums, or watch mountain documentaries. Use the time to plan hikes or simply unwind after your day outside.
Souvenir Shop
The shop carries artisan items and regional goods from Kamikochi. It’s open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Internet Access
Wi-Fi is available throughout the lodge, except in the bath areas. Near the front desk, you’ll also find a free-use internet PC.
Additional Features
- Free Wi-Fi throughout most of the building
- Non-smoking rooms with outdoor smoking area
- Carved wooden signage gifted by nature photographer Yukio Tabuchi
- Easy access to trail maps, hiking guidelines, and nature conservation info
- Luggage delivery available from the Kamikochi bus terminal (inquire at the front desk)
