One of the many reasons for choosing Myoko Kogen as a destination for your Japan ski holiday is its authentic atmosphere. In order to make that experience complete you need to look no futher than the beautiful Oyado Furuya as your choice of accommodation.
Oyado Furuya Ryokan is the most luxurious traditional Ryokan in the heart of Akakura Onsen village. Although the hotel is very old, it has been remodeled inside and includes lovely bedrooms ranging from full-Japanese with Tatami Mats to those with western beds. It's important to note that Oyado isn't five star Ritz-Carlton style luxury, but it's easily our favourite place in Myoko and definitely higher end as far as Japanese Ryokan go. Scout would highly recommend going for a room with its own private Rotenburo (natural outdoor hot spring) on the balcony. All rooms are lavishly appointed and regardless of the bedding type, have a traditional Japanese style. The combination rooms with western twins on a wooden platform and a large tatami matt area, and spacious bathrooms are some of the loveliest and largest ryokan rooms we've seen, and perfect for a family.
Oyado Furuya has an excellent restaurant that serves up breakfast (included in the rate) and traditional Japanese meals in the evening. The restaurant is a beautiful, peaceful setting with each room having its own separate dining area.
Not surprisingly Oyado Furuya has great onsen (on the top floor) fed from local natural hot spings. One onsen is a rather unusual one surrounded by tatami mats (called a tatami-buro). Apparently it is one of the only kinds of tatami-buro in Japan! The other onsen is a more regular stone-floored onsen (ishi-buro). The use of these two onsen rotates between men and women so both sexes can get to enjoy both types of onsen. There is also an outdoor onsen.
While the owners speak English, due to its popularity with Westerners Oyado Furuya usually has western staff employed during the ski season, meaning you won't have any problems. There is a laundry for guests to use, however the hotel staff are happy to take your laundry and wash and dry it for you for only a small fee per bag. You are on holiday after all.
