Honjin Hiranoya Annex
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 531 reviews
Honjin Hiranoya Annex sits steps from Takayama’s historic streets and offers a measured blend of traditional design and practical comfort. As a ryokan with onsen in Takayama, Gifu, the property presents an open‑air hot spring bath that looks over the town, plus a selection of tatami rooms classified as river‑side or town‑side to suit different views. The public rotemburo is arranged to emphasize seasonal panoramas and evening light, while public facilities include a small esthetic space and massage services for quiet relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
Rooms are laid out with classic Japanese simplicity — tatami flooring, futon or Western beds where specified, and in‑room conveniences such as television, minibar and private baths. Dining focuses on regional ingredients with a monthly kaiseki menu that highlights local produce and Hida beef; several dinner plans are served in private dining rooms to preserve intimacy. Practical amenities include complimentary Wi‑Fi throughout the building, free on‑site parking with attendant service, and a complimentary shuttle that connects the ryokan to JR Takayama station for quick access to transport and local attractions.
Beyond the accommodation, the Annex’s location makes it convenient to explore the morning market, Takayama Jinya and the preserved merchant quarter on foot. Staffing emphasizes attentive service and small gestures of hospitality to enhance stays, and guests can borrow yukata for evening walks or use the ryokan’s shop to take home local crafts. For travelers seeking a compact, well‑located ryokan with onsen Gifu, the Annex presents a straightforward option that balances a traditional atmosphere with easy access to the town’s main sights and services.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Honjin Hiranoya Annex
Positive Reviews
Attentive, helpful staff and free shuttle
Many guests highlight very courteous, attentive service — staff go the extra mile (helping with luggage, early check‑in, locating lost items) and a complimentary shuttle to/from the station is appreciated.
Excellent onsen and spa offerings
The onsen facilities are frequently praised (including rooftop access/sauna), and hotel massage options (shiatsu, oil treatments nearby) are recommended as a relaxing end to a day of sightseeing.
Fantastic location and river views
The ryokan is perfectly placed near the historic district, within walking distance of the station and attractions; rooms with river and Nakabashi red‑bridge views are especially valued.
Traditional Japanese rooms with thoughtful touches
Guests enjoy the ryokan‑style rooms: futon bedding, kimonos/yukata, tea sets and small in‑room attentions (tea and mochi), and often note rooms are larger than typical Japanese standards.
High quality meals and breakfast experience
Many reviews praise the food — the kaiseki dinners and Japanese breakfasts are described as excellent, varied and served in appealing settings (private alcoves or in‑room service).
Negative Reviews
Bedding comfort issues (futons perceived as hard/ thin)
Several guests found the futons or mattresses too thin or firm and not as comfortable as expected, especially for those unaccustomed to traditional bedding.
Value concerns for dinner/meal pricing
A number of reviewers felt the dinner/half‑board pricing was high for what they received; a few described the evening kaiseki as disappointing given the cost.
Some areas/rooms feel dated or in need of maintenance
A few comments mention worn carpets, older linens and general signs of age in parts of the building, giving an impression that some rooms or public areas could benefit from refurbishment.
Larger, more hotel‑like than an intimate ryokan
While the property offers traditional elements, some guests expected a smaller, homelier 'inn' experience and felt the place can feel sizeable and more hotel‑like than an authentic stay 'with a host.'
Limitations around facilities and schedules (women's onsen, breakfast times)
Some guests noted operational limits: the women’s onsen is indoors (no outdoor bath), and breakfast service times are early and can feel restrictive for vacationers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacities vary by type — many rooms sleep 2 (twin beds or 2 futons) while larger tatami rooms can accommodate 3–5 guests; family rooms are also available. Check the specific room occupancy when you book.
Yes — the property features public hot-spring baths including an open-air rooftop bath; typical onsen hours run early morning and late afternoon/evening (for example around 05:00–09:00 and 15:00–24:00). Female-only facilities (Relax Kura) operate on separate hours and children may be restricted in some areas.
Tattoos may be restricted from using shared onsen facilities, so guests with tattoos should check with the ryokan in advance for guidance or alternatives. Private room baths or in-room bathrooms avoid public-bath rules.
Yes — the ryokan offers a free shuttle between JR Takayama Station and the property (a short 3-minute drive), and the station is also within a 7–10 minute walk. Reserve or confirm shuttle timing with the ryokan ahead of arrival.
The nearest major airport is Chubu Centrair (Nagoya). Typical routes are the JR limited-express train (Wide View Hida) or highway bus from Nagoya, followed by the short shuttle or walk from Takayama Station; total travel time from Nagoya is roughly 2.5–4 hours depending on route.
Staff provide service in Japanese and can assist in English for standard guest needs. If you need specific-language support, notify the ryokan before arrival.
Rooms feature tatami flooring and futon bedding, yukata robes (large selection available for rental), and multi-course kaiseki dinners served in private dining rooms highlighting local Hida ingredients. Massages and cultural touches are offered on request.
The ryokan sits next to Takayama’s historic Sanmachi Suji district and is a short walk to Takayama Jinya and the Miyagawa morning market; Hida-no-Sato folk village is a short bus ride away. Many museums, sake breweries and traditional shops are nearby.
JR Takayama Station is a short walk or shuttle ride away, local buses and taxis serve the area, bicycle rental is offered, and free on-site parking is available for guests arriving by car. Staff can advise on local bus routes and taxi arrangements.
Pets are not permitted at the property. Rooms have private bathrooms but the main onsen areas are communal and are not usually reserved for private use; ask the ryokan about any available private-bath options. Convenience stores and the shops of the old town are within a short walk of the ryokan.