This mountain hut is well-known for its stunning sunsets, stargazing opportunities, and a relaxing onsen experience in a rustic mountain setting.

Accommodation Options

Tabakoya offers private rooms that accommodate different group sizes. The hut has 20 rooms, with space and meals arranged based on the number of guests.

Rates:

• Adult (1 night with 2 meals): ¥12,500 (off-peak); ¥13,000 (peak)

Note: All bookings require advance reservation. Please call ahead, as walk-ins are not accepted due to preparation requirements.

Facilities and Amenities:

• Basic bedding is provided, but guests should bring their own sleeping bags or inner sheets for hygiene.

• Bring your own toiletries, as soap and shampoo use are prohibited in the bath areas.

• Lights out is at 9:00 PM due to the generator’s power-off time; bring a headlamp for convenience.

Bathing Options

Tabakoya Ryokan offers three distinct baths, each with unique features and views. Bathing hours vary, and each bath has designated women-only times.

1. Open-air bath (20 people capacity): 1:00 PM – 6:30 AM (following morning)

2. Wooden communal bath (10 people): 1:00 PM – 8:30 PM

3. Rock bath (3 people): 1:00 PM – 8:30 PM, 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM (following morning)

Note: Soaps are not permitted, and there are alternating times for men and women. Swimwear is also not allowed; however, bath towels are permitted.

Dining

Meals are served in a communal setting, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere for guests. The ryokan emphasizes the use of local ingredients, including Shikishima beef and Gunji pork.

• Dinner: 5:15 PM

• Breakfast: 6:30 AM

• Packed Lunch: Available upon request (500 yen)

Seasonal Availability

• Open Season: Late April to late November

• Winter Closure: The hut closes in winter, except for occasional special operations. During shoulder seasons (early May, late autumn), be prepared for strong winds and cold weather.

Tent Camping

The tent site at Tabakoya Ryokan is limited to eight tents and requires a reservation via the online platform "Yamatan." Reservations open 30 days in advance.

• Tent Camping Fee: ¥5,200 for adults, ¥4,200 for students, and ¥3,000 for children

• Facilities: Access to restrooms and use of the onsen

How to Get There

Tabakoya Ryokan is nestled deep in the Nasu Mountains and requires a combination of public transportation, ropeway, and hiking to reach. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you get there smoothly.

Access Options:

1. Via Kuroiso Station and Nasu Ropeway (Shortest Route)

   • Train: Take the JR Utsunomiya Line to Kuroiso Station.

   • Bus: From Kuroiso Station, take the Tono Bus bound for Nasu Ropeway (approx. 75 minutes).

   • Ropeway: At the base station, board the Nasu Ropeway and ride to the summit station.

   • Hike: From the summit station, it’s about a 2-hour hike via the Ushikubi Trail to reach Tabakoya Ryokan.

2. Via the Chaya Ridge Trail (Alternate Route)

   • Car: Drive to the Chaya Ridge Parking Lot.

   • Hike: From the parking lot, follow the trail to Mine-no-Chaya, then continue on foot to Tabakoya Ryokan (approx. 2-hour hike).

3. Alternative Trailheads

   • Numappara Wetlands : Another trailhead option for more experienced hikers, offering a scenic but longer hike to the ryokan.

Important Notes:

• Open Season: The ryokan operates from mid-April to late November.

• Reservations: Required for all stays, so be sure to book in advance.

• Preparation: As this is a mountain hut, be prepared with adequate gear, water, and a headlamp.

Contact and Reservation Information

• Phone/FAX: 0287-74-3038 (advance booking required)

• Note: Cellular service is limited due to the mountainous location. The staff will return calls if you don’t get through.

Additional Notes

• Lights Out: Lights turn off at 9:00 PM; bring a headlamp.

• Amenities: Guests can purchase souvenirs such as original T-shirts and mugs, along with soft drinks and alcohol.

• Etiquette: The hut observes a “Leave No Trace” policy. Please carry out all trash, respect the non-smoking policy indoors, and refrain from bringing pets.