Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link or book through an affiliate program, I receive a small commission at no cost to you! See my Privacy Policy for more information.
If you’re craving a break from Tokyo’s fast pace, I highly recommend Satoyama Jujo. This high-end retreat in Niigata’s Joshin’etsukogen mountains is just two hours away but feels like a world apart. It felt only fitting to title this article, “Satoyama Jujo Perfect Japanese Mountain Retreat” after having experienced its tranquil setting firsthand, I can vouch for its ability to help you unwind with breathtaking mountain views, soothing onsens, and farm-to-table dining. All of which left such a lasting impression on me and made me crave even more experiences like this during my trips.
Check out my Latina’s Guide to the 5 Best Cities in Japan for a complete look at my trip!
Satoyama Jujo Perfect Japanese Mountain Retreat Table Of Contents
Book Your Satoyama Jujo Perfect Japanese Mountain Retreat
 Flight |  Stay |  Do |  Drive |
| Skyscanner | Booking | KLOOK | QEEQ |
Unwind At Satoyama Jujo
Getting There
Satoyama Jujo is an easy two-hour shinkansen ride from Tokyo to Echigo-Yuzawa Station, followed by a short car ride which is complimentary if you arrive during the suggested window time and RSVP with the hotel. The journey transports you from city chaos to serene mountain views almost effortlessly.
get your JR Pass before leaving home to travel across Japan with one pass!
The Hotel & What Makes It Special
The calm it provides made it a standout stay for me, especially since I love being on the go even when I travel that it’s hard to slow down.
On arrival, you’re greeted with a delightful welcome treat of dessert and drinks even before they check you in which kicks off the slow travel retreat vibe from the start. This Design Hotel is a gorgeous mix of traditional and modern. Satoyama Jujo is all about sustainability and nature and while you spend time here are immersed in both with all your senses. Its peaceful atmosphere, paired with luxurious touches, offers the perfect escape in the mountains of Niigata.
The Onsen Experience
Satoyama Jujo’s outdoor onsens were my favorite highlight next to the food which I’ll get into more detail shortly. An onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring known for its mineral-rich waters, believed to offer therapeutic benefits. At Satoyama Jujo, they offer two gender-divided onsen baths that switch nightly, allowing you to experience both. I woke early to catch the sunrise from the onsen, the perfect moment of peace and reflection as I got the onsen all to myself.
The Food
Chef Keiko Kuwakino, named Best Vegetable Lady Chef of the World, leads the culinary experience at Satoyama Jujo.
Breakfast
Breakfast is interactive and fun, with guests cooking their own meal at the table, making it a great way to start the day.
Dinner
The dinner is a farm-to-plate tasting menu that celebrates local ingredients, including Niigata’s and where Japan’s most famous rice comes from. Chef Kuwakino grows hers in her private rice fields which you enjoy during dinner. Each dish feels like a thoughtful reflection of the region’s flavors. I highly recommend adding the sake wine pairing. It elevated the meal with local sakes that perfectly complemented the courses.
Happy Hour
Don’t miss the free happy hour featuring local sakes and whiskeys in two areas of the hotel.
Location & Trails
This retreat location is surrounded by the beauty of Niigata, which is why Satoyama Jujo is the perfect base for outdoor exploration. There are a number of hiking trails nearby or simply walk the village, which you can do a guided tour booking with the hotel for an additional charge. I was able to do a short walk post breakfast and before check out that helped me really appreciate where I was and offered that refreshing change from city life I am so used to.
Best Time to Visit
Satoyama Jujo is perfect year-round. Summer is ideal for hiking, which is when we visit while winter turns the area into a snowy wonderland and offers visitors the ability to enjoy skiing and snowboarding activities in Niigata.
Now what are you waiting for? Check availability and be sure to add the dinner (drink pairing) and breakfast for a truly unique service experience. When you consider everything you get, it’s worth every penny.
Additional Stays Like Satoyama Jujo In Japan
Looking for more luxury stays in Japan? Consider visiting Matsumoto Jujo in Nagano and Hokone Honbako in Kanagawa. These two additional stays are sister hotels to Satoyama Jujo. For even more luxury stays in Japan Booking.com will be a great place to start.
More Japan-Related Information
Here are even more articles to shape your trip in Japan.
- Tourist Japan Google map
- Guide to Tokyo’s Tastiest Spots
- Osaka In 8 Easy Steps
- Kyoto 3-Day Guide
- Japan & South Korea Itinerary
- Top 10 Tokyo Sights For Latinas
- 5-Day Guide to Tokyo
Want to discover more?
Explore my Travel Guides Section for more destinations in Asia like Seoul and Thailand.
Discover more from Girl Takes Mundo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.