Oyado Eitaro
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Oyado Eitaro is a family-run ryokan set in the Hirayu area of Okuhida Onsengō near Takayama, offering a compact, traditionally furnished experience with tatami rooms, yukata and a quietly wooded setting. Rooms range from standard Japanese-style layouts to newly refurbished corner suites with tatami-bed configurations; some premium rooms include an exclusive cypress bath. The property markets itself as a ryokan with private onsen in Gifu while retaining the communal rhythm of a small inn that focuses on regional hospitality and a measured pace of service.
The onsen facilities rest on two natural spring sources and include both public outdoor baths and two free private hot-spring baths that can be reserved by guests; each private bath has indoor and outdoor elements so visitors can choose a sheltered or open-air soak. Spring types are presented with distinct characters — one source is slightly cloudy while another oxidises on exposure and takes on a darker, mineral-rich appearance — and bathing areas are laid out to emphasise relaxation and seasonal views of the surrounding mountains.
Culinary offerings are a clear feature: multi-course meals emphasise Hida region produce, with A5-ranked Hida beef and Hoba-miso preparations served as signature items by a chef noted for regional technique. Practical details for planning a stay include evening dinner and morning breakfast as standard on two-meal plans, the availability of vegetarian requests if notified in advance, basic guest amenities such as Wi‑Fi, and on-site arrangements for winter activities including ski equipment rental and access to nearby mountain attractions and the Shin‑Hotaka ropeway. Check-in and check-out follow standard ryokan schedules.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Oyado Eitaro
Positive Reviews
Outstanding food (breakfast & dinner)
Many guests praised the meals as plentiful, beautifully presented and delicious, highlighting multi-course dinners and first-class traditional Japanese breakfasts that cater well to dietary needs when informed.
Friendly, attentive staff and warm hospitality
Reviews repeatedly mention cheerful, polite hosts who are helpful with luggage, remember guest preferences, provide a warm welcome and create a family-run atmosphere that made stays memorable.
Excellent onsen facilities
The property offers multiple onsen options (public gendered baths and private onsens) free for guests; private outdoor onsens and the ability to reserve private use were called out as relaxing highlights.
Very convenient location for bus access and Kamikochi
Guests appreciated the short walk to the bus terminal and tourist information, making it ideal for visitors heading to Kamikochi or ski areas and for easy transfers.
Clean, comfortable traditional rooms and useful amenities
Many reviews note spacious, very clean ryokan-style rooms with comfortable futons, yukata provided, thoughtful touches (tea set, smart TV in some rooms) and good heating—overall a comfortable, authentic stay.
Negative Reviews
Thin walls and noise
Several guests reported poor sound insulation—hearing other guests talking, walking or squeaky floors—so light sleepers were advised to use earplugs.
Pillows uncomfortable for some
Multiple reviews mentioned pillows being hard or too high; a few guests recommended bringing a preferred pillow for better sleep comfort.
Futon arrangement not ideal for some couples
At least one guest noted futons were set individually rather than a shared arrangement, which can be inconvenient for couples wanting a single larger sleeping surface.
Limited local amenities and meal booking/cost considerations
A few guests pointed out there is little in the immediate town (no konbini), and while hotel meals are excellent they can be expensive and may need advance booking.
Occasional communication/service hiccups
A small number of comments mentioned language misunderstandings or isolated service issues (for example a missed wake-up), though most reviews still praised the staff overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms include traditional Japanese triple and quadruple/family layouts with futons; occupancy varies by room type and some rooms sleep up to four. No extra rollaway beds or baby cots are available, so check the room’s stated capacity when booking.
Yes — the property offers a communal onsen and two private family-style open-air baths; guests may use the private baths when they are available and are asked to check with the front desk for timings.
There is no regular hotel shuttle listed; the Okuhida Hirayu Onsen area is most commonly reached by Nohi/long‑distance buses from JR Takayama Station (about a 60‑minute ride) and by car. Contact the property if you need help arranging pick‑ups or local transfers.
The closest airport is Shinshu‑Matsumoto (around 50–60 km); typical routes combine train or airport bus to Takayama followed by a local bus to Hirayu Onsen, or by rental car driving to Okuhida Onsen‑go Hirayu.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; several reviews note helpful, friendly hosts and basic English assistance, but guests who need specific language support should contact the ryokan in advance.
The ryokan serves multi‑course meals focused on local Hida cuisine and seasonal ingredients, often featuring Hida beef; traditional breakfasts are also offered. If you plan to have dinner at the ryokan, arrive earlier in the evening (check‑in by mid‑to‑late afternoon) so the kitchen can prepare your meal.
Two private family baths are available for guest use and can be reserved or used via the front desk depending on availability; pets are not permitted on the property.
Hirayu Onsen village has small shops, kiosks and restaurants within easy walking distance of the bus stop; larger supermarkets and full shopping options are in central Takayama, a drive or bus ride away.
Nearby highlights include Hirayu Great Falls, the Shin‑Hotaka Ropeway, Kamikochi, Shirakawa‑gō, and Hida/Takayama’s historic areas; many local outdoor activities and seasonal festivals are also accessible from Hirayu Onsen.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 to 19:00 and check‑out is by 10:00. The ryokan offers luggage storage before check‑in and after check‑out; notify the property if you need to drop luggage earlier or arrive late.