Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan
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Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan sits in the heart of Takayama’s preserved old town, a traditional ryokan with a history of formal Japanese hospitality and rooms that blend tatami space with modern comforts. Located within easy walking distance of the morning market and historic landmarks, the property offers a complimentary shuttle from JR Takayama Station and on-site parking for day trips. Guest rooms range from standard Japanese layouts to larger junior suites; many include flat-screen TVs, kettles and en-suite baths, and guests may choose from a broad selection of yukata during their stay.
The property operates public hot spring facilities with separate bathing areas for men and women, plus an open-air bath and communal indoor onsen; some room categories also feature semi-open-air or hinoki (Japanese cypress) baths that provide a more private soak. These features make Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan a practical choice as a ryokan with onsen in Takayama, and the natural thermal water is integrated into the bathing spaces with complimentary toiletries and cold drinking water available at the baths.
Dinner is presented as seasonal kaiseki meals emphasizing local ingredients such as Hida beef, typically served in private dining rooms, while breakfast follows Japanese set-menu traditions. On-site services include a small souvenir shop, bicycle rental and optional massages; free Wi‑Fi is available throughout and the property enforces a non-smoking policy. Positioned for exploring the old town, museums and sake breweries, this ryokan with onsen Gifu offers a balance of traditional presentation and practical amenities for multi-day stays.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, attentive staff
Many guests highlight warm, professional service and personalised welcomes (ceremony on arrival). Staff are described as caring, helpful and going the extra mile throughout the stay.
Outstanding food and dining experience
Repeated praise for breakfast, kaiseki/8‑course dinners and sushi; meals are described as delicious, refined and generous. Several guests valued private dining rooms and the special presentation/serving ware.
Ideal central location
Guests appreciate the ryokan’s location in the heart of Takayama — within walking distance of major sights — making it convenient for sightseeing.
Authentic ryokan atmosphere and unique spaces
Reviewers enjoyed the traditional ryokan experience: ceremonial welcomes, yukata/kimonos, shoe storage, tatami/futon arrangements and the intimate 'mini house' style private dining rooms that enhance authenticity.
Clean, comfortable rooms and family/group suitability
Many comments mention very clean, beautiful rooms with high‑quality materials. Several guests note the property works well for families and groups and offers comfortable sleeping arrangements.
Negative Reviews
Onsen limitations and small baths
Some guests found the indoor baths small and regretted the lack of private onsen; others noted the rooftop/outdoor onsen is at the sister hotel about 50m away, which may not suit guests who expect an outdoor bath on site.
Limited views / non‑opening opaque windows
At least one guest reported no view from the bath and an opaque window that could not be opened, reducing ventilation and the ability to enjoy an outside view.
Occasional language limitations
A few reviewers suggested staff’s English could be improved; while many guests found communication adequate, some felt more English would enhance the experience.
Extra fees / price concerns
One guest was unhappy about additional charges (for example, a fee for a baby futon), indicating that some extras or pricing can feel costly.
Minor room comfort and decor issues
A few guests mentioned small negatives such as a fish smell in a suite, very firm pillows (not ideal for some European guests) and that the interior/exterior decoration was not outstanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from small Japanese-style rooms for one or two guests to larger suites and family rooms; many room types comfortably sleep groups of four and some room configurations include space for up to five futon beds.
Yes — the property has public hot spring baths including an indoor onsen and open-air options; several suites and some rooms feature semi-open-air or in-room baths for more private use.
The ryokan offers a free pick-up shuttle from JR Takayama Station (a very short drive); from airports you should travel to Takayama Station by train or bus and use the station shuttle for the final leg.
Staff are experienced with international guests and are reported to assist in English; they provide practical help for check-in, sightseeing and meal arrangements.
Meals focus on seasonal kaiseki cuisine highlighting local Hida beef, served in private dining areas; the property also features an on-site sushi counter and traditional multi-course dinners and breakfasts.
The ryokan sits in Takayama’s historic old town, right by Takayama Jinya and the morning market, with the Hida Folk Village reachable by a short bus ride.
Most main sights in the old town are within a short walk; the ryokan also offers bicycle rental and a station shuttle for slightly longer journeys.
Arrival and departure procedures follow standard hotel practice; exact check-in and check-out times are set per reservation, so confirm them on your booking or by contacting the property directly.
Pets are not allowed at the ryokan; while public baths are shared and gender-separated, certain suites and rooms include private or semi-open-air baths for exclusive use.
Yes — the ryokan has an on-site souvenir shop and you’ll find the Takayama morning market, local craft shops and convenience stores within a short walk of the property.