Minakami, Gunma Prefecture hotel rooms at the Independent

"Had a nice and relaxing experience, the staff were very helpful. The location was really good with local restaurants and lots of sites to see!"

"I stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Nikko recently and honestly, it was one of the best hotel experiences I’ve ever had. The location alone makes it worth the trip — right on Lake Chuzenji, with the mountains and waterfalls of Nikko all around. It feels super peaceful and completely different from the city vibe of Tokyo. Rooms The rooms are huge by Japanese standards and beautifully designed. Think modern but with lots of Japanese touches — sliding doors, deep soaking tubs, and big windows that frame either the lake or the mountains. Mine had a lake view and waking up to that every morning was amazing. Food Food was excellent. Breakfast had both Japanese and Western options (the Japanese one was really special). Dinner was pricey, but the kaiseki course was worth it for the experience. If you want something lighter, there are cafés around the lake too. Onsen & Spa This is where the hotel really stands out. The onsen (hot spring) is incredible — both indoor and outdoor baths with natural hot spring water. Sitting outside in the hot bath while looking at the mountains was pure magic. Service super professional, but also warm and friendly. They remembered small details about preferences and made everything feel easy. Special thanks to Alex, Marek and Tiff. Overall If you’re heading to Nikko and want to splurge, this is the place. It’s not cheap, but it feels like an experience rather than just a hotel stay. Perfect for a co"

"This hotel was great to stay in. The room was very spacious with tatami mats and two areas to sit down and relax/work on computer including a nice couch with a table and desk with a chair. The bed was very comfortable, the restaurant was delicious, and the spa was amazing. I had a great stay here."

"Had an awesome stay, right up in the mountains. Staff were great and even shuttled us to the train station and back whenever we needed it. Loved and it would definitely stay again. "

"This hotel is fairly old-fashioned, but that’s what makes it unique. Despite the fairly decent condition of the room and the smell of smoke, it was alright. The con is we have to walk uphill to the bus terminal. "

"Wonderful stay. "

"Me and my family had a lovley stay here, however I so have one complaint. The inages showed the hotel being right next to the yubatake place, but it was actually a bit of a walk from there. They sid provide a "

"Restaurant and housekeeping services were exceptional. Hotel is well maintained and the front desk check in process was quick and friendly. Room peaceful and quiet with great views of mountain side and lake. Recommend 4th floor if possible. 403 was a great room and lots of amenities (e.g., cups, tea pot, robes, phone plugs, etc.). Osen. bath 1st floor was very clean too. Bikes available. Parking for rental cars. Small gift shop and vending machines with food options. Must get breakfast and dinner option. The food and service is excellent. "

"Absolutely amazing! Exceeded all expectations! Did not want to leave! "