Ryokan Tanaka
9,8/10 Exceptional - Based on 25 reviews
Set in the Hirayu Onsen area of Okuhida, this small, family-run ryokan presents a compact, traditional stay focused on tatami rooms and futon bedding. Rooms are styled in a straightforward Japanese manner; some room types share bathing facilities while others provide more private options, and common areas include a simple lounge and a communal dining space. Practical amenities include complimentary Wi‑Fi and on-site parking, and the property is commonly reached by regional bus services from Takayama, making it a convenient base for exploring the Northern Alps. This ryokan with onsen Gifu blends easy access and a quietly local atmosphere without elaborate modern trappings.
The bathing facilities combine a public onsen and a smaller open-air rotenburo alongside a reservable private bath, with options for short private-use slots and daytime drop-in access for visitors. The spring is described locally as a simple hot-spring source, and the layout is designed to accommodate both public bathing and moments of solitude in a compact outdoor setting. Staff manage bathing rotations to preserve privacy and a relaxed pace, so guests who prioritise a private soak should plan to reserve a slot in advance. Overall, facilities reflect a classic onsen rhythm: communal use balanced with the possibility of a private soak — a true ryokan with private onsen Gifu experience for those seeking both social and solitary bathing.
Meals are integral to the stay: evening service typically follows a multi-course kaiseki approach that highlights regional produce and Hida beef in season, while morning offerings are presented plainly and with an emphasis on local ingredients. Guests report attentive, English-capable service and a welcoming, hands-on host style that helps with local logistics and travel suggestions. Quiet evenings, mountain views from nearby vantage points, and direct access to hiking or sightseeing routes around Okuhida make the property well suited to travelers who want an authentic, service-focused ryokan experience rooted in local onsen culture. For visitors who plan to dine on-site, notifying the inn ahead of arrival is recommended to ensure availability.
Highlights of this ryokan
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Review summary for: Ryokan Tanaka
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff and host
Multiple reviews praise the owner and staff for being friendly, welcoming and helpful—greeting guests, handling luggage, preparing futons, and communicating in English when needed.
Excellent, plentiful local meals
Many guests highlight the quality and variety of included dinners and breakfasts, noting local specialties, careful presentation and large portions; several recommend the stay specifically for the food.
Excellent onsen facilities (especially outdoor/private baths)
Reviews consistently praise the hot spring baths — outdoor rotenburo and a private outdoor onsen were singled out as superb. Baths are available 24 hours and several guests enjoyed the quieter, well-maintained bathing areas.
Comfortable rooms and good sleep
Guests report comfortable futons/beds and well-functioning room amenities, with some noting great views (including snowy scenery) and a pleasing room layout with separate toilet/sink areas.
Convenient location and peaceful, traditional atmosphere
Reviewers appreciate the ryokan’s easy access (short walk from the bus stop), serene family-run environment, cleanliness and the authentic traditional ryokan experience.
Negative Reviews
Some baths can be too hot
A few guests found the indoor onsen water uncomfortably hot at times, limiting their ability to use that specific bath until temperatures cooled.
Futon firmness varies
One review mentioned the cushioning under the futons being less supportive than expected compared with other ryokans, which may affect guests sensitive to mattress firmness.
No en-suite bathrooms in some rooms
At least one guest noted that the room lacked a private bathroom, which could be an issue for travelers who prefer en-suite facilities or who are not comfortable using public baths.
Limited power outlets
A business traveler requested more electrical outlets in the room, indicating that plug availability may be limited for some guests.
Minor comfort issues (noise, rain cover for outdoor bath)
A small number of guests mentioned issues such as a noisy ventilation fan in the room, wishing for a roof over the open-air bath during rain, or a desire for a non-smoking-room option—these were individual but notable comfort concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ryokan Tanaka offers Japanese‑style twin rooms with 2 futons (for 2 guests) and a quadruple room with 4 futons (for 4 guests).
Yes, the property has shared public baths and an outdoor onsen, plus a private bath available for exclusive use.
Shared baths are closed 10:00–15:00 and open at other times; the private bath is available 06:00–09:00 and 15:00–23:00.
Yes — the private bath can be used exclusively by your party during the listed hours; please ask staff at check‑in to reserve a time slot.
The ryokan is located in the Okuhida Hot Spring Villages and guests typically take a bus from JR Takayama Station; the nearest listed airport is Shinshu‑Matsumoto (approximately 52 km).
Staff speak English and provide English explanations for onsen use and local directions to assist international guests.
Traditional Japanese breakfasts and multi‑course dinners are served; if you want to dine on site you must check in by 18:00 or reserve in advance (guests without a meal plan should request dinner at least one day before).
Check‑in is from 15:00 to 17:00 and check‑out is until 10:00; note the 18:00 deadline for guests who wish to have dinner at the ryokan.
Pets are not allowed at the property; private onsen use is available for exclusive use by your party during the scheduled hours.
Okuhida is a small hot‑spring village with limited local shops; for full supermarkets and broader services you should travel to Takayama, about 30–35 km away.