Kurobe Unazukionsen Yamanoha
8,6/10 Excellent - Based on 534 reviews
Kurobe Unazukionsen Yamanoha stands in the Unazuki Onsen district of Kurobe, Toyama Prefecture, a short walk from Unazuki Onsen station and close to the Kurobe Gorge Railway. The property combines Japanese and Western room types, from tatami-floored suites with futon bedding to carpeted twin rooms, each equipped with private bathroom, refrigerator and electric kettle; guests receive yukata robes for on-site bathing. Public areas include a lobby with windows, a gift shop and family-friendly amenities such as a kids’ corner and table-tennis room.
Its bathing facilities are central to the experience: indoor stone baths and multiple open-air baths overlook the gorge and the red Yamabiko Bridge, while a larger communal pool and a cedar-lined outdoor tub Tanayu offer mountain views. A main bath Okurobe, a jacuzzi and a steam sauna extend the spa options, and several private onsen rooms can be reserved for secluded soaking. This ryokan with onsen in Chubu manages gender-separated bathing schedules and provides standard toiletries and towel services in public areas.
Dining focuses on local seafood and mountain produce served at a buffet-style restaurant called Seeds, plus a café-lounge for lighter meals. Event and meeting facilities range from a large convention hall to smaller function rooms suitable for family gatherings, while entertainment includes karaoke and an arcade; massage services and a relaxation room are available for quieter downtime. Located steps from rail connections and within easy reach of the gorge viewpoints and a nearby art museum, the hotel is a ryokan with private onsen in Toyama for guests seeking exclusive bathing.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kurobe Unazukionsen Yamanoha
Positive Reviews
Outstanding onsen with scenic outdoor views
Multiple guests praised the large hot spring baths (including outdoor pools) and the dramatic views over the Kurobe Gorge and the red bridges, describing the onsen experience as a highlight and very relaxing.
Excellent location and easy access
The hotel is very close to Unazuki Onsen station (short walk or complimentary short shuttle), making it convenient for sightseeing and train access to the gorge.
Friendly, attentive staff and good service
Reviewers repeatedly noted polite, helpful staff who explained facilities, offered shuttle or station drop-offs, and provided welcoming service that enhanced the stay.
Spacious, clean rooms with great views
Many guests found rooms to be large, well maintained and clean, often with windows overlooking the river, gorge or mountains; some rooms have separate bathtub/toilet layouts and comfortable arrangements.
Generous buffet dining and varied facilities
The dinner and breakfast buffets are frequently mentioned for their wide selection (including sashimi/local dishes) and variety. Guests also appreciated communal facilities like the lobby with views, free coffee machines, arcade room and overall resort amenities.
Negative Reviews
Inconsistent buffet quality for some guests
While many praised the buffets, several reviews reported uneven or mediocre food quality at times — some guests felt the buffet standards were inconsistent.
Large resort feel can be impersonal
A few guests commented that the size of the resort led to a more impersonal reception or 'canteen' atmosphere in dining areas, diminishing a traditional ryokan charm for some visitors.
Sleeping comfort issues (futons / no air conditioning)
Some guests found futon mattresses too thin or uncomfortable (particularly side sleepers) and noted certain rooms lacked air conditioning, causing stuffiness in warm weather.
Connectivity and small extra charges
There were reports of poor Wi‑Fi reliability and minor frustrations such as paid usage of amenities (e.g., massage chair) or small children’s play areas being limited compared with other resorts.
Occasional small room equipment problems
A small number of guests experienced minor maintenance issues (for example a non‑working mini fridge) or found parts of the village/restaurant lacking in atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
The property offers a range of room types from twin/Western rooms to Japanese-style family rooms with multiple futons; some family rooms sleep up to eight guests. Larger tatami-family rooms are designed for groups and families.
The ryokan has indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths with valley/gorge views, gender-separated public baths, and additional spa facilities such as a sauna and specialty baths. Yukata are provided for guests.
Private/reservable baths or exclusive-use options may be offered on request or for an extra fee; availability is limited so contact the property to arrange a booking. Public baths are the main onsen experience.
Unazuki Onsen Station is a very short walk (about 2–3 minutes) from the ryokan; Toyama Airport is roughly a 50–55 minute drive. Kurobe‑Unazukionsen (Shinkansen) provides regional high‑speed access with local transfers to Unazuki.
The ryokan is within easy walking distance of Unazuki Onsen Station; some sources note station pick-up is available but you should confirm with the property before arrival. Free on-site parking is generally available for guests arriving by car.
Staff speak some English and are generally helpful with travel and activity information, though many services and signage are in Japanese. For detailed arrangements (tours, private baths, special diets), contacting the ryokan in advance is recommended.
Expect traditional touches such as tatami rooms and futon bedding in Japanese-style rooms, yukata robes for onsen use, communal hot‑spring bathing, and buffet meals featuring local Toyama seafood and seasonal dishes. The large dining hall often features live cooking stations.
Kurobe Gorge Railway, the Kurobe River landmarks (including the red bridge and Kurobe River Electricity Memorial), Selene Museum of Art, and Unazuki Park are all within a short walk or drive. The area is also a gateway to scenic gorge viewpoints and seasonal activities like hiking and skiing.
Standard check-in usually starts at 15:00 and check-out is typically by 10:00; requests for early check-in or late check-out depend on availability and should be confirmed with the ryokan. Reception staff can advise on luggage holds if needed.
Pets are generally not permitted; please check with the property if you have a special request. There is a souvenir/shop on site and convenience stores or a supermarket are located near Unazuki Onsen Station or a short drive away for supplies.
