Ryokan Asunaro
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 1223 reviews
Ryokan Asunaro occupies an authentically restored farmhouse brought to Takayama from Niigata and rebuilt with traditional post-and-beam joinery; original elm beams and period carpentry give the public areas a spacious, warm character that frames an unobtrusive blend of antique details and modern comfort. Guest rooms follow traditional Japanese design with tatami floors and futon bedding, and some room types offer the option of Western-style beds; guestrooms are deliberately limited in number to preserve a calm, residential scale. This ryokan with onsen in Gifu emphasises craftsmanship and quiet communal spaces while offering essentials such as complimentary Wi‑Fi and in‑room kettles for tea.
The bathing facilities comprise gender-separated communal hot spring baths fed by Hida Takayama onsen waters, designed for soaking rather than vigorous activity; the complex includes a large indoor bath and period-appropriate fittings, and guests are provided with yukata and robes to use on the property. Meals are centred on regional cuisine served in-course (kaiseki) in the dining area, with Japanese breakfasts standard and Western options available on request; the ryokan also lends bicycles and provides complimentary coffee in the lobby to punctuate arrival and morning routines. Practical services such as luggage handling and multilingual assistance are part of the house approach to hospitality.
Positioned a short, flat walk from the station and the morning market, the inn makes an efficient base for exploring Takayama’s preserved merchant district and for day excursions to the World Heritage village beyond; the property offers onsite parking and walkable access to local museums and bus links. The atmosphere balances attentive service and relaxed informality, making it well suited to travellers seeking a traditional ryokan with onsen in Takayama, Gifu who value authentic architecture, seasonal dining and straightforward access to town sights.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryokan Asunaro
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive hospitality
Many guests highlight welcoming, friendly and highly attentive hosts and staff, creating a personal and memorable stay with small thoughtful touches.
Excellent multi-course dinner and hearty breakfast
Numerous reviews praise the kaiseki-style dinner (12–15 courses) and the generous traditional Japanese breakfast as standout experiences full of variety and flavor.
Authentic traditional ryokan atmosphere
Reviewers repeatedly mention the authentic Japanese decor and experience—tatami rooms, yukata for dinner and a traditional ambiance that provides cultural immersion and charm.
Clean, comfortable rooms and pleasant onsen
Guests report spacious, well‑equipped rooms, high standards of cleanliness, comfortable futons/bedding and a clean, relaxing onsen separated by gender.
Convenient central location
Many found the ryokan well located for sightseeing and close to the city centre (and about a 10‑minute walk from the station), with easy access and nearby parking when needed.
Negative Reviews
Strict meal times and limited flexibility
Several guests note rigid dining schedules and limited flexibility to change dishes for dietary restrictions (for example substitutions for fish allergies), which can be inconvenient.
Lighting and early-morning brightness issues
Some reviewers were disturbed by automatic lights in entry/bath areas that come on at night and by a lack of blackout/curtains, causing too much early‑morning light.
Some rooms have poor views
A few guests reported that certain room views face a coach parking area rather than scenic surroundings, which detracts from the experience for those rooms.
No double-bed option in some room types
At least one guest mentioned a preference for a double bed that was not available, indicating limited bed configuration options for couples.
Occasional comment on food consistency
While many rave about the meals, one review felt the food was below the overall standard expected, suggesting occasional variability in dining quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by type: most rooms sleep 2–4 guests, the Family Room accommodates up to 6, and some Japanese-style rooms can host 2–3; check the room description when booking.
Yes — an indoor Hida Takayama onsen with separate male and female baths; opening times are 16:00–22:30 and 06:30–09:00.
No — the ryokan only offers separate public male and female baths and does not accept private onsen reservations or family-bookable time slots.
No shuttle is provided; JR Takayama Station and the Nohi Bus Terminal are about a 5–6 minute walk away and the front desk can arrange taxis on request.
Staff can assist in English and Japanese.
Guests can wear provided yukata, sleep on tatami with futons (or choose rooms with beds), enjoy a communal irori lounge area, and book the ryokan’s multi-course kaiseki dinner.
Dinner is served at either 18:00 or 19:00 (available for one night during your stay) and breakfast service starts at 07:00, 07:30 or 08:00; please notify dietary restrictions at least two days before arrival.
Yes — the morning market, Takayama’s old town, Takayama Jinya and many restaurants are within walking distance, and buses to Shirakawa‑go run from the nearby bus terminal.
The ryokan offers complimentary bicycle hire (limited, not available in winter), on-site parking for 15 cars (one free space per room; please notify in advance), coin laundry and luggage storage.
Families with school-age children (over 12) are accepted, pets are not allowed, and the onsen is tattoo‑friendly.