Onyado Hisui
8,4/10 Excellent - Based on 47 reviews
Onyado Hisui is a compact, family-run ryokan tucked into the wooded Okuhida Onsen area of Takayama, Gifu. The property maintains a traditional atmosphere across roughly 19 rooms that feature tatami floors and futon bedding alongside straightforward modern comforts such as air conditioning, a refrigerator and a flat-screen television. The small scale of the inn is reflected in modest communal spaces — a relaxed lounge and a bar — and in the way meals are presented: seasonal, locally sourced courses served in private dining rooms. Staff commonly assist with arrival logistics and offer a shuttle pickup from the nearby Fukuchi bus stop.
Bathing is central to the experience: the ryokan operates natural hot spring waters in separate public baths and a number of private bathing options that include both indoor and open-air tubs for single-party use. Private facilities are generally usable without advance reservation on a first-come, first-served basis, so guests can arrange an undisturbed soak with minimal fuss; this makes the property functionally a ryokan with private onsen in Okuhida for travelers who value privacy. Staff provide guidance on onsen etiquette and changing-room procedures to ensure a straightforward visit.
Dining and service follow a small-inn pattern: evening menus emphasize regional produce and Hida beef in multi-course presentations, while the hosts manage practical details and personalized requests. The location places the ryokan within convenient reach of regional draws such as the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway, local walking trails and the nearby bear park, so it works as a base for seasonal outdoor activities from hiking to winter scenery. Practical amenities include complimentary parking, daily housekeeping and simple in-room provisions that support a restful stay at a ryokan with onsen in Gifu.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Onyado Hisui
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen facilities (public and private)
Many guests praise the hot spring baths — both public and private — describing them as relaxing, enjoyable and a highlight of the stay. Private outdoor baths and easy access to multiple onsen are repeatedly mentioned.
Friendly, accommodating staff and owners
Reviews frequently note warm, helpful service: hosts who pick up guests, assist with dinner reservations, prepare early breakfasts, dry guests' wet shoes and generally go out of their way to be welcoming.
Authentic traditional Japanese ryokan experience
Guests appreciate the traditional room design, futon bedding and family-style atmosphere, saying it provides a genuine Japanese experience and a homely, cultural stay.
High-quality meals and breakfast
Several reviews highlight excellent food — kaiseki dinners and generous, well-presented breakfasts — with meals described as delicious, thoughtful and a strong part of the experience.
Clean, comfortable rooms and picturesque location
Many guests found the rooms clean, comfy and spacious, and valued the peaceful, scenic setting surrounded by forest and nature for a restful stay.
Negative Reviews
Remote location with limited nearby options
Multiple reviewers note the ryokan is isolated with very few nearby restaurants or shops; guests who don’t take dinner at the property may find it difficult to find alternatives and public-transport connections can be inconvenient.
Dinner reservation/time restrictions and booking challenges
Several guests experienced strict or early cut-offs for dinner reservations (reports of needing to register well before evening) and found dinner booking inflexible or difficult, which caused inconvenience if arrival was delayed.
No WiFi in rooms / poor network
A number of guests reported that WiFi does not reach the rooms or mobile network connectivity is weak, making online access from rooms unreliable.
Some facilities dated or unavailable
A few reviews mention older-looking facilities, an outdoor onsen that was not warm or seemed rundown, and that certain private baths were closed for repair — affecting expectations for facilities.
Perceived high extra costs / pricing concerns
Some guests felt the total cost (especially dinner add-ons) was high for a 3-star property, citing expensive per-person dinner prices and an overall sense that value could be improved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with futons; most rooms fit 2–5 guests depending on the room type, and family rooms are available.
The ryokan has a hot spring with public indoor and open-air baths, and a private bath option that guests can reserve for short, private use.
Public baths in Japan often restrict visible tattoos; guests with tattoos can usually use the private bath option to enjoy the onsen without issue.
There is no regular airport shuttle; the nearest airport is Shinshu‑Matsumoto (around 57 km). The owners have been known to offer station pickup by arrangement—contact the ryokan in advance to request help.
Staff are used to international guests and can communicate in English; the team is noted for helpful, multilingual service.
The ryokan offers traditional Japanese meals—guests commonly enjoy a multi‑course kaiseki dinner and an Asian breakfast; dinner is usually arranged with the reservation.
It sits in Okuhida Onsengo (Fukuji), within walking distance of local hot‑spring spots and a short drive to Hirayu Onsen, Shin‑Hotaka Ropeway, and access toward Kamikōchi and Takayama (roughly 40–45 km).
The property is most convenient by car (free on‑site parking available); by public transport you will typically take train or bus toward the Okuhida/Hirayu area and finish by local bus or taxi—ask the ryokan for detailed directions.
Standard check‑in is between 15:00 and 17:00 and check‑out between 08:00 and 10:00; you should inform the ryokan of your expected arrival time in advance.
Pets are not permitted. The village has a few local restaurants and a small shop; for larger supermarkets or many dining options you will need to travel to a nearby town and staff can advise the closest options.