Wanosato
9,6/10 Exceptional - Based on 293 reviews
Set on roughly 45,000 square metres along the Miyagawa River in the Hida highlands, Wanosato is presented across a cluster of traditional buildings reconstructed from a 160‑year‑old farmhouse. The property arranges a small number of suites in separate pavilions that open onto forested grounds and river views, so rooms emphasize quiet, seasonal sightlines and traditional materials. Interiors blend exposed timber, tatami and local craftwork, while one of the main communal spaces preserves an irori (sunken hearth) used for cooking and evening gatherings, giving stays a distinctly regional character.
Public facilities include several dining rooms with wide windows facing the river and a kitchen that stages multi‑course seasonal kaiseki using Hida ingredients. The property lists hot‑spring bathing among its facilities and offers both communal indoor/outdoor bathing areas and baths attached to guest suites; this combination positions the house as a ryokan with onsen in Chubu and as a ryokan with private onsen in Gifu for guests seeking both shared and room‑level bathing options. House rituals such as fireside storytelling and local warmed sake are highlighted alongside careful plate presentation.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Wanosato
Positive Reviews
Idyllic natural location & river views
Guests frequently praise the hotel's setting amid trees and beside a river — described as peaceful, timeless and perfect for disconnecting. Many highlight rooms with direct views of the torrent and easy access to nature.
Excellent onsen experience
Multiple reviews mention lovely hot-spring baths, including separate public baths by day and the option to privatize mixed baths in the evening. Reviewers appreciated the quality and atmosphere of the onsen facilities.
Outstanding food & dining
The meals — especially dinners — are repeatedly described as exceptional, refined and among the best of guests' trips. Both dinner and Japanese breakfast are noted for high-quality ingredients and presentation.
Warm, attentive staff and service
Staff are repeatedly described as very attentive, welcoming and professional; many guests highlighted personalized care, memorable evening hospitality (fireplace gatherings, sake), and smooth organization (e.g. shuttle service to the station).
Authentic, comfortable ryokan experience
Reviewers value the traditional atmosphere (tatami, futons, shared fireplace), spacious authentic-style rooms, and comfortable accommodations that balance tradition with modern comforts.
Negative Reviews
Rooms showing signs of age
Several guests suggested some rooms and furnishings could benefit from refreshing or light refurbishment (paint, furniture) to address wear while keeping the ryokan’s character.
Insects / cleanliness in light fixtures
A few reviewers noticed many dead insects in chandeliers or light fixtures, which affected their impression of room cleanliness.
Continental breakfast sometimes light
At least one guest found the continental-style breakfast a bit light compared with the otherwise high standard of the property and meals.
Wood-fire smoke can bother sensitive guests
The wood-burning hearth contributes to the atmosphere but a guest with asthma reported discomfort from smoke; sensitive visitors should be aware.
Perceived price vs. some expectations
One review mentioned that, despite the excellent location and food, the stay felt expensive relative to some aspects of the accommodation, suggesting expectations around value may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by type; most rooms and annex houses sleep up to 3–4 guests on futons, and there are no extra beds or cribs available. Children are accepted from age 7.
Yes, the ryokan has hot-spring baths (including a bedrock and cypress bath) with river views; baths are gender-separated during the day and can be reserved for private use in the evening on request. Guests with visible tattoos may face restrictions in public baths.
The property offers a complimentary scheduled shuttle from JR Takayama Station (about a 20‑minute ride); you must reserve the shuttle in advance through the property or via your booking confirmation and confirm departure times.
From Chubu Centrair (Nagoya) or other regional airports, take train or bus connections to Takayama Station and then use the ryokan’s shuttle for the final leg. Allow extra time for transfers and check shuttle availability.
The primary language is Japanese; staff are attentive and may provide some English assistance, but guests should expect limited English communication.
Wanosato serves traditional multi-course Hida kaiseki dinners and Japanese breakfasts in its dining rooms, using seasonal regional ingredients. Notify the property in advance about allergies or dietary needs and arrive before 18:00 if you plan to have dinner served.
Pets are not accepted at the property, and the ryokan does not permit parties or large private-event hires. Small private-bath reservations are possible — contact the staff to arrange.
There are no restaurants or many shops within easy walking distance of the ryokan; the nearest services and Takayama’s Old Town are approximately a 20–25 minute drive away, so plan accordingly.
Popular nearby sights include Takayama Old Town and its morning market (about 25 minutes by car) and Shirakawago Village (around 70 minutes by car). The ryokan itself sits on the Miyagawa River and offers scenic grounds for walks.
Check-in is between 15:00 and 17:00 and check-out between 08:00 and 11:00; you must inform the ryokan of your estimated arrival time in advance and confirm any shuttle reservations.