Hotels in Obuse

Unveiling Obuse: A Tapestry of Nature and Culture Awaits

Nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, Obuse is a charming town that beautifully blends culture and nature. Famous for its stunning Hokusai Museum, dedicated to the iconic ukiyo-e artist, Obuse also boasts serene parks and historic temples like Ganshoin and Zenkoji. Stroll through picturesque streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, savor local chestnut delicacies, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With easy access to Yudanaka Onsen and Matsumoto Castle, Obuse offers a perfect balance of tranquility and adventure, making it an ideal spot for off-the-beaten-path travelers seeking authentic Japanese experiences. For the best hotel rates in Obuse, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Obuse

Some of the best places to stay in Obuse are Kyukaruizawa, Kurita and Madarao Mountain Resort. Obuse, Nagano Prefecture, is a charming destination known for its historical sites, beautiful scenery, and local artistry. Kyukaruizawa offers upscale resort experiences and shopping, while Kurita is famous for its traditional ryokans and serene atmosphere. Madarao Mountain Resort is perfect for skiing and outdoor activities. For accommodations, expect a range of hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses in each area, catering to diverse budgets. Kyukaruizawa is ideal for first-time visitors, combining luxury and accessibility. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Obuse:

1. KyukaruizawaOpens in a new window: Known for its ski resorts and natural hot springs, Kyukaruizawa offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The area is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with attractions like the Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort and Hoshino Onsen Hot Spring. For accommodation, consider Kyukaruizawa Kikyo, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that caters to business and family travelers with excellent meeting facilities and amenities for children. Another option is HOSHINOYA KaruizawaOpens in a new window, a 5-star lodge featuring a natural hot spring and adventure sports nearby. Lastly, Karuizawa Marriott HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star property, offers hot spring amenities and business facilities for a luxury experience.
2. KuritaOpens in a new window: This area is a hub for culture and sports, with the famous Zenko-ji Temple and Shiga Kogen Ski Area nearby. It's perfect for those who appreciate both history and outdoor activities. Consider Hotel Sierra Resort HakubaOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel offering various dining options and entertainment amenities. Alternatively, there's Hotel de La Neige by Onko ChishinOpens in a new window, a 5-star boutique hotel known for its unique decor and business-friendly facilities. Another choice is Hoshino Resorts KAI AlpsOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star ryokan with hot spring access, ideal for a relaxing stay after a day of skiing.
3. Madarao Mountain ResortOpens in a new window: Perfect for ski enthusiasts, Madarao Mountain Resort is surrounded by thrilling ski fields and adventure opportunities. The area is noted for its outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for sports lovers. The Ridge Apartments NozawaOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, offers a range of sports activities and modern entertainment options. For a traditional experience, Nozawa Grand HotelOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star ryokan with onsite hot springs, perfect for unwinding. Lastly, Nojiriko Hotel El BoscoOpens in a new window, another 4.0-star resort, provides a variety of dining options and nearby golf activities, catering to both leisure and recreational needs.

Things to do in Obuse for first time

A visit to Obuse is perfect for three days of exploring serene nature, lush mountains, tranquil parks, and picturesque forests. Travelers can enjoy local art, hot springs, and cozy accommodations, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and cultural immersion in Japan's stunning landscapes. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Obuse:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the serene Yudanaka Hot Spring, where you can soak in the natural hot springs and unwind amidst beautiful surroundings. Next, make your way to Shibu, a quaint town known for its charming atmosphere and traditional ryokan (inns). After enjoying the local culture, head to Takayakushi Wakoan, a peaceful temple offering stunning views and a place for quiet reflection. This combination of relaxation and cultural immersion will set the perfect tone for your trip.
• Day 2: Your exploration continues at the iconic Zenko-ji Temple, a significant Buddhist temple that attracts visitors from all over. Take your time to appreciate its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance. Next, visit Saiho-ji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Conclude your day at Junen-ji Temple, where you can enjoy the serene environment and perhaps participate in a meditation session, rounding out your spiritual journey in Nagano.
• Day 3: Start your morning at the picturesque Lake Nojiri, where you can take a peaceful walk along the shoreline or even rent a kayak for some fun on the water. After soaking in the natural beauty, head to Togakushi Shrine, a majestic site surrounded by lush forests and sacred mountains, ideal for spiritual exploration. Finish your day at the Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum, where you can admire local art and culture, leaving you with lasting memories of your time in this beautiful region.

5 tips to find a great Obuse hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Obuse is during June, September, and October, when hotel prices are more affordable. To truly appreciate the main attractions in this charming town, it's best to plan for at least 1-2 days. While you're there, you can explore a variety of noteworthy sites, including museums, natural parks, and monuments. This makes for a great value for money experience, perfect for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Obuse, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. Here, you could find great rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a good deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you make the most of your travel budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Obuse.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it typically comes with a higher price tag. For those looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, as they usually tend to be cheaper. This way, you can find a balance between cost and the ease of reaching the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Obuse and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

Best time to go to Obuse

Obuse experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 28.4°F (-2.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.9°F (23.3°C). July is usually the wettest month. August to October are the peak travel months in Obuse, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.