The weather is beautiful for spending time outdoors!
Why not consider a trip that lets you enjoy Minamiuonuma's nature, not just our accommodation?
We are excited to announce the launch of our new "Traveling Hotel" service starting September 1st.
Instead of staying at a hotel, you travel with a hotel – that's the concept behind "The Traveling Hotel," a new accommodation style. Utilizing a campervan, this service transforms the journey itself into part of your trip, allowing international visitors to freely and deeply experience Japan's authentic charm, including its nature, culture, hot springs, and food. The greatest appeal is the freedom to travel at your own pace to wherever you want, unconstrained by a fixed lodging location. Our campervans are equipped with Wi-Fi and power, making them suitable for "workations" or long-term stays. By combining this with day-trip hot springs, self-cooking experiences using local ingredients, and regional activities, you can truly experience traveling as if you were "living" in that area. You can discover the charms of the countryside, not just urban areas or places listed in tourist guides, by exploring them yourself. We invite you to experience such a free and authentic journey.
[Day 1]
2:00 PM Check-in
Arrive at Echigo-Yuzawa Station and check in at our sister inn, HATAGO Isen, located right in front of the West Exit. This is your first time in a campervan! It's a larger vehicle than you might usually drive, but this region has relatively calm traffic, making it perfect for trying it out. With a campervan, you don't have to worry about insects or wild animals while sleeping, no matter where you park, so even women traveling alone can confidently embark on an active adventure.
3:00 PM Shopping at a Local Supermarket or Roadside Station
Visiting a supermarket here offers a treasure trove of items unique to Niigata and a snowy region. In spring, you'll find fresh wild vegetables, and in summer, juicy summer vegetables, perfect for preparing a light meal or dinner ingredients. Of course, you can also pick up some local Niigata sake to prepare for an evening feast.
4:00 PM Enjoying Snow Country Scenery & Refreshing at a Day-Trip Hot Spring
As you start driving in the campervan, Minamiuonuma's natural scenery will unfold before your eyes. From spring to summer, the contrast of the rice fields and green mountains against the vibrant blue sky is stunning. In autumn, you can enjoy the golden rice fields and the beautiful autumn foliage—you're guaranteed to be immersed in nature. After driving for a while, enjoying the natural scenery, take a break at a nearby day-trip hot spring.
6:00 PM Dinner in Nature
If you reserve a spot at a nearby auto-campground, you won't have to worry about overnight parking. Park your vehicle in a designated spot, set up chairs and a table outside, and your outdoor dining experience is complete! It's fun to buy your favorite ingredients and create your own snacks. The liberating feeling of being outdoors means you can chat late into the night without worrying about disturbing others. Look up at the sky, and you might see a sky full of stars. How about enjoying a view you wouldn't see indoors?
[Day 2]
7:00 AM Morning Activities
When on a trip, you might want to sleep in, but since you're in a place so close to nature, we recommend waking up with the sunrise and seeking out sights and experiences unique to the morning. Why not go see a sea of clouds illuminated by the morning sun? If the timing is right, you might witness a collaboration of clear skies and a sea of clouds. Even just sipping freshly brewed coffee while looking down at Minamiuonuma's rice fields makes for a great morning activity.
10:00 AM Kiyotsu Gorge
Since you've rented a car, why not extend your trip a little and explore the Tokamachi area? Kiyotsu Gorge, near Minamiuonuma in Tokamachi, is a photo spot where you can capture the snow country scenery throughout the seasons. Why not visit this spot for a memorable photo with friends?
11:30 AM Exploring Tokamachi: Visiting Works from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale
Exploring several art installations scattered throughout Tokamachi City with the agility that only a car allows is part of this journey. You can go wherever your curiosity takes you, and you might even have unexpected encounters!
12:30 PM Lunch at IKOTE
The building, designed to resemble a large kamakura (snow dome), is itself an art installation. This restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients from Niigata Prefecture, as well as traditional local cuisine passed down through generations. With spacious seating, it's also a great spot for groups.
4:00 PM Return Campervan, Sweet Treats at Mizuya
After returning the campervan at HATAGO Isen, why not reflect on your trip memories while enjoying something sweet at the attached cafe, "Mizuya"? It's also fun to plan your next campervan adventure for a different season and imagine your next journey!
Please proceed with your reservation here.