Hotels in Joetsu

Joyful Journeys: Explore Joetsu's Enchanted Mountains and Lakes

Nestled in Niigata Prefecture, Joetsu is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This off-the-beaten-path gem features the stunning Lake Nojiri, surrounded by lush parks and the majestic Myoko Mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Adventure seekers can hit the slopes at Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort, while families delight in the thrills of theme parks. Explore ancient Japanese temples and immerse yourself in the serene Kusatsukiso Valley, where vibrant flowers burst into color. With its picturesque landscapes and rich experiences, Joetsu offers a unique escape into Japan’s natural and cultural wonders. For the best hotel rates in Joetsu, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Joetsu

Some of the best places to stay in Joetsu are Madarao Mountain Resort, Kijima and Nozawaonsen. Joetsu, Niigata Prefecture, offers fantastic destinations for travelers. Madarao Mountain Resort is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, with cozy accommodations ranging from lodges to hotels. Kijima boasts beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities, featuring guesthouses and hotels that cater to all budgets. Nozawaonsen is renowned for its hot springs, with traditional ryokans offering an authentic Japanese experience. For first-time visitors, Nozawaonsen is ideal due to its cultural charm and relaxing atmosphere. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Joetsu:

1. Madarao Mountain ResortOpens in a new window: For ski enthusiasts, Madarao Mountain Resort is a prime destination, offering easy access to thrilling ski and snowboarding experiences. The area is known for its scenic mountain views and outdoor adventures. Notable hotels include Active Life MadaraoOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel featuring onsite ski rentals and entertainment options like billiards and a flat-screen TV. Another option is Nojiriko Hotel El BoscoOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star resort with multiple dining choices and nearby golf facilities. For guests seeking a bit more luxury, Hotel Sierra Resort HakubaOpens in a new window also offers 4.0-star accommodations, with ski access and amenities like karaoke and cable TV.
2. KijimaOpens in a new window: Kijima is a vibrant area for sports lovers, particularly for skiing, with proximity to various ski fields like Nozawa Onsen and Shiga Kogen. Aburaya TosenOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star ryokan, offers a unique hot spring experience with outdoor and indoor public onsen facilities, perfect for relaxation after a day on the slopes. Another choice is The Ridge Apartments NozawaOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, which provides onsite ski rental and hiking excursions. Lastly, Nozawa Grand HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star ryokan, emphasizes its hot springs, catering to travelers looking for a spa-like vacation experience.
3. NozawaonsenOpens in a new window: Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich hot spring culture, Nozawaonsen is ideal for ski enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. The area boasts access to several ski resorts, including Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort. Hotel Sierra Resort YuzawaOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel featuring hot springs and ski shuttle services, while KutsurogianOpens in a new window, another 3.5-star ryokan, provides similar amenities for a relaxing stay. For those desiring a more upscale experience, RyugonOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star ryokan that offers a serene hot spring experience, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Things to do in Joetsu for first time

Joetsu offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, making it an ideal three-day getaway. Visitors can enjoy skiing in the mountains, hiking through lush forests, boating on serene lakes, and exploring vibrant natural parks, all while soaking in the stunning coastal views along the Sea of Japan. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Joetsu:

• Day 1: Start your exploration at Hakusan Shrine, a serene and beautiful site where you can admire traditional architecture and peaceful gardens. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, make your way to Tozaki Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the scenic views of the Sea of Japan. To wrap up the day, visit Nou Marine Park, a lovely spot perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, offering stunning coastal views and a chance to unwind in nature.
• Day 2: Begin your adventure at Amatsu Shrine, a historic and picturesque shrine surrounded by lush greenery. Next, head to Benten Rock, a fascinating natural formation that is rich in local folklore and provides a great photo opportunity. Finish your day at Itoigawa Beach, where you can enjoy a sunset by the sea, listen to the waves, and perhaps dip your toes in the water.
• Day 3: Kicking off the day at Kashiwazaki Two Lover's Point, known for its romantic views, you can take in the breathtaking scenery of the coastline. Continue to Yoneyama Ohashi Bridge, a beautiful structure offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Conclude your itinerary at Kujiranami Beach, where you can relax and reflect on your journey, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and perhaps even catching a glimpse of local marine life.

5 tips to find a great Joetsu hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Joetsu is from September to November, when hotel prices are more affordable. To truly appreciate the area's main attractions, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural parks, stunning mountains, and serene lakes, all of which offer great value for money and are perfect for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Joetsu, Hotels.com is a great resource. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections to uncover potential discounts on accommodations as your travel date approaches. You could find excellent rates and good availability for hotels in the area. To stay in the loop about flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, ensuring you have the chance to snag a great deal on Joetsu accommodation.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances that you may save on hotel expenses in Joetsu.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, ensuring you strike a balance between cost and easy access to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Joetsu. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Joetsu

Here are a few popular dining spots in Joetsu, Niigata Prefecture, Japan:

• 塚田そば店: This highly popular restaurant specializes in soba noodles, showcasing the artistry of traditional Japanese noodle-making. With a focus on local ingredients, their dishes highlight the rich flavors of Niigata Prefecture, making it a must-visit for any culinary enthusiast.
• 食堂ニューミサ: Known for its creative approach to classic Japanese comfort food, this beloved eatery offers a unique fusion of flavors, often incorporating seasonal ingredients from the region. It's an excellent place to experience authentic local dishes with a modern twist.
• たんたん麺の店菜心: Specializing in tantanmen, this restaurant elevates the traditional spicy noodle dish by using locally sourced vegetables and meats, creating a memorable dining experience that reflects the innovative spirit of Joetsu's culinary scene.

Best time to go to Joetsu

Joetsu experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 34.5°F (1.4°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 78.6°F (25.9°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Joetsu, April, July, and August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.