Hidaji (Adult Only)
9,8/10 Exceptional - Based on 383 reviews
Kakurean Hidaji is a compact, adult-only ryokan set in the Fukuji hot-spring enclave of Okuhida Onsenkyo, at the foothills of the Northern Japan Alps near Takayama. The property operates twelve guest rooms housed in Hida-style architecture with a small traditional garden and quiet communal spaces; it functions as a ryokan with private onsen in Okuhida, Gifu, offering both guest-room open-air baths and a larger outdoor onsen where guests can relax beneath the night sky.
Rooms combine tatami flooring and futon-style bedding with practical amenities such as a kettle, refrigerator, kotatsu table in some room types, television and yukata robes. Meals are served in the ryokan dining room and follow regional multi-course tradition, highlighting Hida beef and seasonal vegetables sourced from local producers; dinner service times are scheduled and the property coordinates mealtimes for small numbers of guests. Breakfast is offered. Public facilities include a souvenir corner, luggage storage and free parking, and staff assist with local transit connections.
The ryokan maintains an adult-only policy and aims for a tranquil atmosphere, with quiet hours and services tailored to couples and adults seeking an onsen-focused stay. English-speaking assistance is available at reception. Access is typically by bus from JR Takayama to the Fukuchi stop, with a short walk or property shuttle available; the location makes day trips to nearby mountain attractions practical. This ryokan with onsen in Gifu presents a compact, service-led alternative to larger resorts, emphasising room-level bathing privacy, local cuisine and the seasonally changing landscape of the Okuhida valley.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hidaji (Adult Only)
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, attentive service
Many guests praised the highly attentive, discreet and professional staff who consistently anticipate needs and contribute to a luxurious ryokan experience.
Outstanding kaiseki meals/dining experience
The multi-course dinners and breakfasts were repeatedly described as exceptional, creative and memorable — a highlight and central part of the stay (including local specialties).
Excellent onsen and bathing facilities
Private and public baths receive high marks: very pleasant private onsens with great views, a beautiful rotenburo, and useful modern systems (e.g. iPad booking / occupancy indicators) for reserving baths.
Beautiful, authentic design and cleanliness
Reviewers note the ryokan’s charm, thoughtful traditional design, use of natural materials, and high standards of cleanliness; many described the property as gorgeous and authentic.
Peaceful, relaxing setting and comfortable rooms
Guests enjoyed spacious, well-equipped rooms and a quiet environment ideal for relaxation and immersion in local culture; several called it a bucket-list or once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited transport options
Multiple guests mentioned the ryokan is a bit out of the way with little within walking distance; travelling without a car can be inconvenient and may require many bus changes — a shuttle or pickup would help.
Scheduling rigidity and dining arrangements
Some visitors found check‑in/meal schedules inflexible (fixed times, same dining room for multiple nights) which reduced flexibility for guests or older visitors.
Portion size / amount of food
A few reviewers felt the meal portions were very large—delicious but sometimes excessive for older guests, leading to potential waste.
Low lighting, small practical room issues and amenities
Several guests reported dim lighting in bathrooms/entrances (making it hard for older visitors to find belongings), a weak/heavy hair dryer, or occasional odd room smells or stray lights that disturbed sleep.
Occasionally over‑formal / highly present staff or minor external noise
A small number felt service could be too formal or ever‑present rather than relaxed; one guest noted light external mechanical noise from a neighbouring building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Children are not admitted; the property is reserved for adult guests only.
Most rooms are configured for two adults (futons or twin beds); check the specific room description for exact maximum occupancy before booking.
The ryokan has indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, semi-private communal onsen, and many rooms include a private in-room or open-air onsen.
Yes. Fukuchi Onsen bus stop is a one-minute walk and the property offers a free shuttle from Fukuchi Onsenguchi bus stop; guests are asked to call on arrival to use it.
From JR Takayama Station take the bus toward Okuhida (about 60 minutes) to Fukuchi Onsen, then walk to the ryokan; for airports you typically transfer via Takayama by train or bus.
Yes. Staff can assist in English as well as Japanese to help with arrival and on-site needs.
Check-in is between 14:00 and 17:00 (please inform the property if arriving after 18:00) and check-out is by 11:00.
Traditional multi-course meals (including local Hida beef and seasonal vegetables) are served in the dining room; dinner service is typically offered in the evening between 18:00 and 21:00.
Pets are not permitted. Many rooms have private baths for exclusive use, and there are semi-private onsens on site that guests can use without formal reservation—check availability at reception.
The immediate Fukuchi Onsen area has limited convenience stores; the ryokan has a small souvenir shop and nearby dining options are limited, so bring any essential snacks or supplies you may need.