Yumoto Choza
9,2/10 Exceptional - Based on 214 reviews
Yumoto Choza sits in the mountain village of Fukuji in Okuhida, Gifu, and is presented as a traditional Japanese inn formed by relocated historic houses. The accommodation emphasizes tatami rooms and irori hearth spaces where guests can gather; some rooms open onto river views and private verandas. The property pairs preserved wooden architecture and hands-on hospitality with practical amenities such as complimentary Wi‑Fi and onsite parking, making it suitable for visitors seeking an authentic stay in the Hida highlands.
It is known locally for its hot springs: the ryokan draws from four separate onsen sources and operates several public baths, riverside open-air baths and smaller private baths. Three private onsen are available to guests on a walk-in basis (typically open from mid‑afternoon into the following morning), while larger indoor and outdoor baths are organized by gender and subject to standard bathing etiquette. As a ryokan with onsen in Okuhida, Gifu, the bathing areas are arranged to showcase seasonal mountain views and a relaxed pace.
Meals focus on regional mountain produce and Hida beef, with evening service often centered around irori grilling and local preparations that highlight foraged vegetables, river fish and regional sake; breakfast is served in a simple, local style. The property is reachable by local bus with a short transfer from nearby towns, and the team can assist with pickup from the nearest stop when notified. For travellers seeking a traditional, nature‑oriented stay with private bathing options, Yumoto Choza presents a quietly rooted experience as a ryokan with private onsen in Gifu Prefecture.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
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Review summary for: Yumoto Choza
Positive Reviews
Authentic traditional ryokan experience
Multiple reviewers praised the property’s traditional wooden architecture, tasteful decoration, classic ryokan atmosphere (tatami, futon, hearth) and the immersive feel of staying in a historic mountain guest house.
Excellent onsen variety and quality
Guests highlighted many hot-spring options — public and several private indoor/outdoor baths with nature views — and noted the onsens were beautifully built, relaxing, and in some cases private and tattoo‑friendly.
Outstanding food and kaiseki meals
Many described the dinner and breakfast as delicious, beautifully presented and authentic local cuisine; several called the multi-course kaiseki dinner exceptional and a highlight of their stay.
Attentive, kind and helpful staff
Staff received consistent praise for friendliness, helpfulness and service (English speakers available, assistance with luggage, dressing in yukata, helping with local arrangements and even driving guests when needed).
Peaceful scenic location and relaxing communal spaces
Reviewers valued the quiet mountain setting, garden and views, multiple communal areas for relaxing (reading/meditation by the fireplace), and easy access by bus to local sights.
Negative Reviews
Some meals can be unfamiliar to Western tastes
A number of guests said parts of the traditional menu (for example fish breakfast or certain dishes) were atypical and not to their usual taste — enjoyable for some but surprising or challenging for others.
Limited vegetarian options
At least one reviewer noted a lack of vegetarian choices, which reduced enjoyment for vegetarian travellers and suggests menu flexibility is limited.
Remote location / transport effort
While scenic, the ryokan is relatively remote (requires a long bus ride from Takayama/Hirayu area for some guests), which may be inconvenient for travellers with tight schedules.
Periods with reduced staff presence
One guest reported the property felt largely unmanned between about 10–11am and 3pm, which can make it harder to get immediate assistance during those hours.
Occasional operational/availability issues
A few reviewers mentioned specific issues such as a main outdoor bath not working, nearby restaurant closures on certain days, or unclear instructions about food/meal-order arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from single/double to family-style Japanese rooms that can sleep up to four guests on futons; children of any age are welcome but extra cots are not available.
Standard check‑in is usually from 15:00 to 18:00 and check‑out is by 10:00; please inform the ryokan of your arrival time in advance and note the front desk opens early and closes around 22:00.
The property offers multiple hot spring baths including indoor and outdoor public baths plus family/private baths for shorter groups or families.
Guests with tattoos may be restricted from communal baths, but private family baths are available and usually appropriate for tattooed guests—ask staff on arrival.
The ryokan is located in the Okuhida Onsen villages and is served by local buses (Nohi Bus) from JR Takayama Station; staff can advise on local transfers, so confirm your arrival plans in advance.
Shinshu‑Matsumoto (Matsumoto) Airport is the closest at about 58 km; typical travel is by airport/train to Takayama followed by a local bus to Okuhida.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; some team members speak conversational English and will assist when possible, so bring a translation app for detailed requests.
The ryokan serves kaiseki‑style dinners and an Asian breakfast; if you plan to dine at the ryokan, request dinner when booking and check in by 18:00 to ensure service.
Pets are not permitted at the property; private/family baths can be used for privacy and are commonly available—ask the staff about reservations and timing.
There are small local shops and at least one restaurant in the Okuhida villages nearby, while larger supermarkets and more dining options are available in Hirayu Onsen or Takayama town; staff can point you to the nearest convenience store.