🏨 Matsushiro Shibatoge Onsen Unkai

The hot spring ryokan is located at an elevation of 380 meters on the Shitoge Plateau. From the spacious outdoor bath "Unkai no Yu," guests can enjoy the classic terraced rice field scenery of Niigata, known for its abundant rice production, as well as the panoramic view of the Uonuma mountain range, which includes Mount Hakkai, Mount Makiiso, and Mount Naeba. Especially on days with a sea of clouds, one can appreciate the dreamlike scenery as if floating above the clouds. The sea of clouds is not always visible; it is a natural surprise that occurs only under specific weather conditions. The sea of clouds appears when cold air flows into the area above the Sekikawa River, which runs through the Joetsu city valley. The temperature difference between morning and evening is significant, making it more likely to see the sea of clouds in the mornings of September and October. Guests can leisurely enjoy this breathtaking natural view from the pure Japanese-style guest rooms. The ryokan also prides itself on its carefully prepared kaiseki cuisine, featuring ingredients sourced from Tokamachi and Tsunan, with rice being the renowned Koshihikari rice from Minami Uonuma.

An outdoor hot spring with a view of the terraced fields and distant mountains. The sea of clouds often appears in the mornings from September to October. Day visitors can also use the scenic outdoor hot spring.