Izumi-so
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 134 reviews
Izumi-so sits in the heart of Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture, a compact family-run wooden ryokan offering a traditional Japanese-style stay. The property comprises 11 tatami-floored rooms arranged to reflect classic ryokan layouts and public spaces that emphasize natural wood and simple lines. Located close to the hot-spring town centre, the inn provides a complimentary pick-up from Gero Station on request and serves as a practical base for exploring nearby temples and the Hida region; for travellers seeking a ryokan with onsen in Gifu, Izumi-so balances accessibility with a small-scale, calm atmosphere.
Bathing facilities are a central feature: a communal indoor onsen and a rustic open-air rock bath fed by Gero’s natural spring water, both reserved for overnight guests and operated according to local gender-separation customs. The property lists large communal baths and an open-air bath rather than private in-room hot-spring suites, while some room types include private toilets and additional bathroom amenities. Meals emphasise seasonal Hida ingredients—local beef, river fish and mountain vegetables—and are served either in the dining room or brought to rooms depending on party size and the dining plan chosen.
Rooms are supplied with standard ryokan amenities such as yukata, toiletries, an electric kettle and, in selected rooms, a small refrigerator; Wi‑Fi is available throughout the building. On-site facilities include a small shop, vending machines, a free parking area for about 20 cars, a massage machine and table-tennis space. Check-in is from 15:00 with check-out by 10:00. With its limited number of rooms and family-style service, Izumi-so functions as a quiet, traditional ryokan with onsen that suits travellers seeking a focused hot-spring experience and easy access to the wider Hida area.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Izumi-so
Positive Reviews
Warm, welcoming and helpful hosts
Many guests highlight the family-run, friendly service — hosts are attentive, accommodating (station lifts, luggage storage), speak good English and make visitors feel at home.
Excellent traditional meals
Multiple reviews praise the kaiseki dinners, Hida beef and breakfasts (including homemade miso) for both taste and presentation — food is described as a major highlight.
High-quality onsen and bathing options
Guests repeatedly note clean, relaxing onsens with both indoor and outdoor baths; when not busy, staff sometimes offer private use. The bathing facilities are considered a strong point.
Authentic, cozy ryokan atmosphere
The property’s traditional design, wooden construction and authentic ryokan charm are frequently appreciated, creating a relaxing, memorable experience.
Clean, comfortable rooms and good amenities
Rooms are described as spacious, well-decorated with fresh linen and comfortable bedding; amenities such as a massage chair and well-kept facilities are also mentioned.
Negative Reviews
Some guests wished to stay longer
A few reviewers felt their visits were too short and wanted more time at the ryokan, indicating short stays can feel insufficient to fully enjoy the experience.
Location and access considerations
Several comments mention that the ryokan is a little far from the train station—still within walking distance for some, but guests sometimes appreciate pickup/drop-off assistance.
Limited or underwhelming room views
At least one guest noted there wasn’t much of a view from their room windows, which was a minor disappointment.
Not always full-service (occasionally no dinner option)
One guest reported there was no dinner provided during their stay, so travellers expecting a full ryokan meal experience should confirm meal availability in advance.
Traditional style may not suit everyone / minor maintenance notes
A few reviewers commented that the very traditional nature of the property might not appeal to all travellers and suggested some areas might benefit from renovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style and typically accommodate up to four guests on futon bedding; family rooms are available for larger groups.
Yes — the ryokan offers natural hot spring baths with separate indoor and outdoor bathing areas for men and women.
No dedicated private onsen is listed; bathing facilities are public and separated by gender rather than bookable private baths.
A complimentary pick-up from JR Gero Station is offered subject to availability — guests should request this in advance and give an estimated arrival time.
Izumi-so is reachable from major regional airports by train or bus to JR Gero Station; guests are advised to travel to the station and use the ryokan’s station pick-up or contact the property for travel advice.
Staff can communicate in basic English and will assist with arranging transport, sightseeing suggestions, and local activities where possible.
Check-in is in the afternoon and check-out is in the morning; you should inform the ryokan of your estimated check-in time and transport mode in advance to ensure service such as station pick-up or dinner preparation.
The ryokan serves a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner and a Japanese breakfast featuring local specialties; guests who wish to dine should arrive by the stated dinner time or notify the ryokan of any special dietary requests in advance.
Pets are generally not accepted; the property offers on-site parking for guests and can assist with car rental arrangements if needed.
Izumi-so is within easy walking distance of the Gero Onsen area and Onsen-ji Temple, with local souvenir shops, convenience stores and riverside strolls nearby for sightseeing and essentials.