Hirayunomori
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Hirayunomori sits within the Hirayu hot-spring enclave of Okuhida, Takayama in Gifu Prefecture and presents a measured blend of traditional ryokan service and forest-side relaxation. Set on expansive woodland grounds, the property is known for a large network of open-air baths—sixteen outdoor pools for men and women—alongside indoor baths and a small sauna. Accommodation ranges from standard guest rooms to separate cottages that include their own open-air baths, and an on-site restaurant highlights regional Hida beef and simple grilled dishes, making it a considered choice for visitors seeking a ryokan with onsen Gifu.
The bathing facilities cater to day visitors as well as overnight guests: public bathing is typically available throughout the day (commonly open until late evening) while some cottages and rental options offer more private bathing opportunities for families or small groups. Practical services include towel and yukata rental, lockers, free parking with shuttle access on request, and partial barrier-free access. Check-in is generally from mid-afternoon and check-out by mid-morning; guests planning to arrive late are advised to notify the property in advance to ensure dinner service and room preparation.
Staying at Hirayunomori emphasizes onsen-led relaxation rather than urbane luxury: the layout encourages slow walks among trees, seasonally framed views from outdoor baths, and straightforward meals showcasing local produce. Its combination of multiple outdoor baths scattered through the forest and separate cottages with private bathing makes it suitable for families or couples seeking a quieter, nature-focused ryokan with onsen Okuhida experience. Visitors typically reach the area by bus from Takayama or by car, and the facilities support short-stay day bathing as well as overnight plans.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hirayunomori
Positive Reviews
High-quality onsen and variety of baths
Multiple reviewers highlighted the excellent hot springs — calm, atmospheric outdoor onsens, a wide variety of public baths and very relaxing facilities. Several guests specifically praised the public onsen as incredible and enjoyed being able to use different baths.
Private cottages with open-air baths and quiet setting
Guests appreciated the cottages, especially those with private open-air baths (rotenburo). Staying in a separate cottage was noted as very quiet and enjoyable, and having a private bath was seen as a strong positive.
Helpful and attentive staff
Staff were described as friendly and responsive — they promptly assisted with heating/fuel problems and some guests noted good English communication and generally warm service.
Good location, food and on-site amenities
The property is conveniently located (near Hirayu Onsen station according to one review) and several guests mentioned a pleasant view, a cafe and restaurant serving tasty food, and an appealing gift shop.
Well-maintained communal areas and tasty breakfast
Multiple comments praised the upkeep of baths and rest areas—staff were seen actively cleaning—and at least one guest specifically mentioned a delicious breakfast. Some amenities like tabi (split-toe socks) were appreciated.
Negative Reviews
Cottages often lack ensuite showers/toilets
Several guests noted that many cottages do not have an in-room shower or toilet; guests must use baths or bathrooms in the main building, which some found inconvenient or unexpected.
Cold or dark cottage interiors and heating issues
Multiple reviews described cottages as dark and cold. Heating problems were reported (gas heating insufficient, reliance on kerosene fan heaters that ran out of fuel, second-floor areas without heating), causing discomfort in very low temperatures.
Limited or missing in-room amenities
Guests mentioned a lack of common in-room items such as an electric kettle, microwave, additional tea bags, and hairdryers in cottages. One reviewer found the provided small kettle deteriorated and unusable.
Cleanliness concerns and occasional pests
A few reviewers reported cleanliness issues (visible dust on beams, less-thorough room cleaning) and sightings of insects — spiders and black ants in or near the cottage floor heating.
Access, signage and site layout issues
Some guests found the garden and paths around cottages dark, back-route access in snowy conditions difficult for heavy luggage, and wished for clearer temperature signage on baths to indicate hot vs warm pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms include twin and family configurations; some cottages sleep up to five on futons. Cots and extra beds are not available, so check room maximum occupancy when booking.
The property features natural hot-spring bathing with multiple indoor baths, a sauna and about 16 open-air baths set in forest grounds, with separate facilities for men and women. Day-use bathing is available during daytime hours.
There is a shuttle service available on request, but most guests arrive by bus from JR Takayama Station to Hirayu bus terminal and walk a few minutes to the property. There is no regular scheduled airport shuttle, so plan transfers via local bus or arranged shuttle.
Staff generally provide basic English assistance and hospitality, though full fluency may be limited; simple English and gestures are commonly used. For complex requests consider arranging assistance in advance.
Expect a traditional Japanese ryokan experience with tatami or futon-style sleeping in some room types, onsen bathing set in woodland, and regional Hida cuisine in a quiet, countryside setting. The atmosphere emphasizes relaxation and local authenticity.
Hirayunomori sits in the Okuhida Hirayu onsen area with easy access to Shin-Hotaka Ropeway, hot-spring villages, and day-trip destinations like Takayama old town and the Northern Japan Alps. The Hirayu bus terminal is a short walk away for regional sightseeing.
Take the local bus from JR Takayama Station bound for Hirayu (Okuhida) and alight at Hirayu bus terminal, then walk about three minutes to the property. Alternatively request the property shuttle if available and pre-arranged.
Standard check-in begins in the mid-afternoon (around 15:00) and check-out is by 10:00. Guests should inform the property if arriving late; to be served dinner you generally must check in by about 18:00 and the property may not accept arrivals after 21:00.
Private or family-use baths are available and some cottages include private open-air baths; pets are not allowed. There are small shops and eateries within the Hirayu onsen village and larger supermarkets in nearby Takayama.
Yes, the property has an on-site restaurant serving Japanese dishes with local Hida beef specialties and offers breakfast and dinner options. Note that dinner service may require earlier arrival, so confirm your arrival time when booking.