Shinzanso
8,1/10 Excellent - Based on 252 reviews
Set on the banks of a mountain river in Okuhida onsen near the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway, Shinzanso is a small traditional ryokan offering tatami rooms and futon bedding with simple furnishings. Guest accommodation ranges from compact Japanese-style rooms with shared bathing facilities to larger rooms with en‑suite toilets, and the property maintains free Wi‑Fi and complimentary parking. The location suits hikers and sightseers exploring the Northern Alps, with access to riverside walks, cable‑car viewpoints and strong seasonal mountain scenery.
Bathing facilities are central: the ryokan operates multiple hot spring baths including separate indoor and outdoor onsen for men and women, a mixed riverside rotemburo where swimwear is permitted, and reservable family or private baths for small groups. Water comes from local springs; temperatures vary across pools, and outdoor baths sit close to the river framed by seasonal foliage. For travellers seeking a ryokan with onsen in Takayama, the property pairs traditional bathing culture with a rugged mountain setting.
Meals showcase regional produce and Hida‑style dishes; dinner and breakfast are usually served at the ryokan, often delivered to guest rooms. There are few dining options immediately nearby, so plan ahead; staff offer basic English assistance but service is primarily in Japanese. The ryokan is accessible by the local Shinhodaka bus line from Takayama and serves as a convenient base for the Shin‑Hotaka Ropeway and nearby hiking trails. The combination of riverside open‑air baths, reservable family bathing and some rooms with private onsen makes Shinzanso a practical choice for visitors to Gifu who want a compact, authentic mountain ryokan experience.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Shinzanso
Positive Reviews
Outstanding onsen facilities with scenic river views
Multiple reviewers praised the hot springs — outdoor and indoor, communal and private — highlighting beautiful river-side settings, the experience of bathing outdoors and even cold-river dips. Several called the onsen ‘outstanding’ or ‘fantastic’.
Authentic traditional ryokan atmosphere and comfortable rooms
Guests appreciated the traditional Japanese style: tatami rooms, comfortable futon bedding, authentic décor, a peaceful mountain setting and an overall immersive experience.
High-quality traditional meals when available
When meals were served, reviewers found the food excellent (examples noted: sashimi, Hida beef/wagyu, tempura, soba and good desserts). Dinners and breakfasts were described as very good and well presented.
Private onsen booking and useful orientation materials
Guests valued the ability to reserve private baths easily and noted that an explanatory video (available in English/other languages) clearly shows how to use facilities and where things are located, which many found helpful.
Scenic location and good access to local attractions
Reviewers liked the setting by the river and proximity to the Shin-Hotaka ropeway (about a 15–20 minute walk for some). Several mentioned attractive walking paths, nearby hikes and good value for money especially if arriving by car.
Negative Reviews
Cold or limited staff communication and limited English
Multiple guests reported a cold or harsh reception and limited English skills among staff; some said staff did not explain things in person and relied on a video, making direct communication difficult without a translator.
Restaurant often closed / very limited nearby food options
Numerous reviews warned that the hotel restaurant is sometimes closed (breakfast/dinner not always available) and there are few or no shops/restaurants within walking distance, forcing guests to bring food or eat instant noodles.
Cleanliness concerns and reports of insects/pests
Some guests described significant dust and sightings of beetles or larger smelly bugs in rooms; one review mentioned an infestation that affected comfort and required better cleaning.
Remote location and difficult public-transport access
While scenic, the property is fairly isolated: reviewers noted long walks to buses or attractions, limited public transport options and challenges for guests without a car.
Shared bathrooms and unclear rules
Many rooms have shared toilets/showers rather than en-suite facilities, and some guests found onsen/shower rules and the layout confusing due to limited in-person explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese style with futons; some rooms accommodate families of up to four or more depending on the option booked. Check the room description when you reserve to confirm exact capacity.
Yes — the property offers natural hot-spring baths including outdoor onsen; the facility provides public baths and private-bath options that guests can use. Ask reception about private-bath availability and operating hours.
There is no regular hotel airport shuttle listed; access is usually by car, taxi or local highway buses. The nearest airport (Matsumoto) is about 65 km, and JR Takayama is roughly a 60-minute drive.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; some English assistance may be available but it can be limited, so a translation app or simple Japanese phrases can be helpful. Contact the ryokan ahead of arrival if you need specific language support.
Expect a traditional, mountain ryokan ambience on a riverbank with authentic Japanese-style rooms and onsen bathing; the setting is rural and focused on a simple, restorative stay. Many guests highlight the traditional meals and relaxed hot-spring experience.
Shinhotaka Ropeway is within walking distance (about 15 minutes) and the Okuhida Onsen area offers hiking and scenic spots. Kamikochi and Mount Norikura are reachable by car within about 45–60 minutes for day trips.
The ryokan is best reached by car or taxi from Takayama, Hirayu bus terminal or local bus services; confirm bus timetables in advance. If traveling by train or plane, plan a connecting bus or taxi for the last leg of the journey.
Check-in is between 14:30 and 18:00, and check-out is until 10:00. If you expect to arrive outside these hours, notify the ryokan in advance.
Private-bath options exist; please request details and booking at reception on arrival or in advance. Pets are not permitted at the property.
Breakfast is offered by the ryokan and dinner may be available but the on-site restaurant does not operate every day, so check opening days when you book. Small local shops and eateries are in the onsen area, while larger supermarkets are located in Takayama about an hour’s drive away.