Best Areas for Your Kamakura Festival Stay

To plan your trip, review Lonely Planet Nikko Guide.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Shrines and Temples of Nikko.

Alternatively, staying near Nikko Station provides more variety in lodging types and prices. You will find modern hotels and cheaper hostels in the central city area. However, keep in mind that the festival site is about one hour away by bus. You must check the last bus schedule carefully to avoid getting stranded.

For a luxury experience, consider the high-end top Nikko onsen resorts winter travelers love. These properties often offer private shuttle services to the festival grounds. You can enjoy a soak in hot springs after exploring the cold snow festival. These resorts often include gourmet kaiseki dinners with your nightly room rate.

When to Book Your 2026 Winter Lodging

You should start looking for rooms at least six months before the festival starts. The 2026 festival usually runs from late January through early March. Peak weekends sell out almost immediately after reservations open to the public. Many local ryokans open their booking windows in August or September.

Planning a weekday visit can help you find better availability and lower rates. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the quietest days for booking accommodation for Kamakura Festival in Nikko. You will also experience fewer crowds at the main festival sites during the week. This allows for better photography and a more peaceful evening walk.

Use official booking platforms or contact the inns directly for the best results. Some traditional Japanese inns do not list their rooms on large international travel sites. Sending a polite email in English or Japanese can often reveal hidden room availability. Check the Yunishigawa Kamakura Festival 2026 official dates before finalizing your plans.

Types of Accommodation in Yunishigawa Onsen

Traditional ryokans are the most popular choice for visitors in Yunishigawa Onsen. These inns feature tatami mat floors and futon bedding for an authentic feel. Most ryokans provide guests with yukata robes to wear during their stay. This is the best way to enjoy the local culture during the festival.

Minshuku guesthouses offer a more affordable and family-style lodging experience. These are often run by local families who provide home-cooked regional meals. You will share common areas but enjoy a very warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is a great way to learn about life in the Japanese mountains.

Some larger hotels in the area offer western-style beds and modern amenities. These are ideal for travelers who prefer familiar comforts after a day in the snow. Most properties regardless of style will have their own hot spring baths. Soaking in the steaming water while snow falls outside is a highlight of the trip.

Cost and Budgeting for Festival Stays

Prices for a standard ryokan stay in Yunishigawa usually range from 15,000 to 30,000 yen. This price typically includes breakfast and a multi-course dinner for one person. Budget travelers can find simple guesthouses for around 8,000 yen per night. Be prepared for higher prices during the festive peak on Saturday nights.

Booking early often secures early bird discounts at many larger hotels. Look for winter plan packages that might include festival shuttle tickets. Some hotels also offer rental gear like snow boots or warm winter coats. These small extras can save you money and space in your luggage.

Remember to account for the local bath tax when staying at onsen properties. This small fee is usually 150 yen per person per night in Nikko. You usually pay this fee in cash during your checkout process. It is a standard practice across all hot spring towns in Japan.