Hotels in Aoki

Serenity Awaits: Embrace Aoki's Enchanting Hot Springs and Timeless Castles

Nestled in the tranquil Nagano Prefecture, Aoki Village is a hidden gem that effortlessly blends natural beauty with rich history. Famous for its rejuvenating onsen and picturesque lakes, this charming destination offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling center of Tokyo. Explore the serene Anrakuji Temple, a historic site steeped in tradition, or wander around the stunning Aoki Lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. With its captivating landscapes and inviting atmosphere, Aoki is the perfect off-the-beaten-path escape for those seeking a unique cultural experience and serene relaxation. For the best hotel rates in Aoki, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Aoki

Some of the best places to stay in Aoki are Kurita, Asama Onsen and Shirakabako. Aoki, Nagano Prefecture, offers a serene escape with its natural beauty and hot springs. Kurita is known for its quaint atmosphere and traditional ryokan accommodations, perfect for immersing in local culture. Asama Onsen boasts relaxing onsen experiences, ideal for rejuvenation. Shirakabako is great for outdoor activities and scenic views. For first-time visitors, Asama Onsen is the best choice due to its accessibility and rich onsen culture. Overall, hotel accommodations in these areas vary from cozy ryokans to comfortable lodges. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Aoki:

1. KuritaOpens in a new window: If you're looking for a ski getaway, Kurita is a fantastic destination that boasts easy access to ski resorts and cultural sites like Zenko-ji Temple. Enjoy both winter sports and cultural exploration in this charming area. For accommodations, consider Hotel de La Neige by Onko ChishinOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel offering a unique blend of boutique charm and business amenities, along with ski shuttle access. Alternatively, Nojiriko Hotel El BoscoOpens in a new window is a cozy 4-star resort with a variety of dining options and nearby golf activities, perfect for a more laid-back stay. For a traditional Japanese experience, Aburaya TosenOpens in a new window offers a 4-star ryokan featuring natural hot springs and full spa services, ensuring relaxation after a day on the slopes.
2. Asama OnsenOpens in a new window: A haven for wellness and culture, Asama Onsen offers rejuvenating hot springs and rich historical sites like Matsumoto Castle. This area is ideal for those seeking relaxation and cultural immersion. For a comfortable stay, Matsumoto Marunouchi HotelOpens in a new window is a well-rated 4-star hotel with dining options and entertainment. If you prefer a more traditional setting, Hoshino Resorts KAI MatsumotoOpens in a new window is a ryokan that provides an authentic hot spring experience along with a full-service spa. For adventurous travelers, La Terra NaganoOpens in a new window offers a guesthouse experience with opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities, making it perfect for nature lovers.
3. ShirakabakoOpens in a new window: Known for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and lake activities, Shirakabako is perfect for nature enthusiasts and offers excellent skiing during the winter months. Consider Karuizawa Marriott HotelOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel featuring natural hot springs, ideal for relaxation after a day outdoors. For those looking for adventure, HOSHINOYA KaruizawaOpens in a new window is a 5-star lodge that combines skiing and hot spring amenities, making it a great choice for thrill-seekers. Lastly, Kyukaruizawa Kikyo, Curio Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window is a family-friendly 4.5-star hotel with business facilities and amenities for children, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.

Things to do in Aoki for first time

Aoki offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, featuring majestic mountains, serene lakes, and lush forests. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, enjoy invigorating ski adventures, or relax in soothing hot springs. Three days here is perfect for experiencing the tranquility and scenic charm of this unique Japanese destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Aoki:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Bessho Hot Springs, where you can unwind in the soothing waters and soak in the serene atmosphere. After rejuvenating, head to Chuzen-ji Temple, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings—perfect for a peaceful walk and some photography. Conclude the day with a visit to Ryuko-in Temple, a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage amidst tranquil gardens.
• Day 2: Start your exploration at the majestic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful and well-preserved castles, where you can learn about its fascinating history. Following your castle visit, make your way to the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, which showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art and local talent. End the day at Utsukushigahara Onsen, where you can relax in the hot springs and enjoy the stunning mountain views that surround you.
• Day 3: Your day begins at Ueda Castle, where history comes alive as you stroll through the ancient grounds and admire the views from the castle's walls. Next, visit the Utsukushi-ga-Hara Open-Air Museum, a unique outdoor experience that combines art with nature, offering sculptures set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Japanese Alps. Wrap up your trip with a visit to Asama Hot Spring, where you can reflect on your journey while soaking in the calming, therapeutic waters.

5 tips to find a great Aoki hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable months to visit Aoki are June, September, and November, when hotel rates tend to be lower. For a budget-friendly trip, it's best to plan for at least 1-2 days to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, which include relaxing onsen, scenic lakes, and a historic castle. This way, you can experience great value for your money while exploring the beauty and culture of Aoki.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Aoki, Hotels.com is a great place to start. By heading to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, you're more likely to find excellent rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of uncovering special offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about potential flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions. This way, you won't miss any opportunities to score fantastic hotel deals in Aoki.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances of saving on hotel expenses in Aoki.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, as they usually tend to be cheaper while still allowing you to access the places you plan to visit with some ease.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Aoki. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

Best time to go to Aoki

Aoki experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 24.4°F (-4.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). July is usually the wettest month. January, February, and August are the peak travel months in Aoki, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, June, September, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.