Suisensou
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 52 reviews
Suisensou is a small, family-run ryokan tucked into the Fukuchi district of Okuhida Onsen-go near Takayama, set against the Hida mountain slopes. The property retains a traditional feel with tatami-floored guest rooms, futon bedding, shoji screens and modest wooden furnishings; several rooms offer garden or mountain views. The scale is intentionally low-capacity, aimed at travellers seeking a calm, local experience rather than a large resort atmosphere. Rooms are simple and practical, and the house supplies essential modern comforts such as free Wi‑Fi and heating.
Bathing facilities comprise both an indoor hot spring and an open-air onsen where guests can soak in locally sourced spring water surrounded by timber and stone. Public-bath hours extend into the early morning and guests commonly use the communal bathing areas rather than private tubs; the property’s meals emphasise regional produce served as multi-course Japanese dinners and a traditional breakfast prepared by the hosts. Practical arrival and departure times fall in the mid-afternoon for check-in and late morning for check-out. As a ryokan with onsen in Okuhida, Gifu, Suisensou focuses on an authentic, compact onsen experience rather than extensive spa amenities.
The inn provides free on-site parking and is reachable by road; proprietors are known to assist with guest arrivals when public transport connections require it. The ryokan is non-smoking and children are not accepted, so prospective guests should confirm arrival times and specific room arrangements before travelling. With modest communal baths, home-cooked regional meals and a handful of rooms, Suisensou serves as a practical, traditionally styled base for exploring the mountain onsen villages and outdoor attractions of Gifu. This ryokan with onsen Gifu suits travellers prioritising authenticity and quiet.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Suisensou
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, friendly hosts
Many guests praise the owners/staff as very kind, helpful and welcoming—meeting arrivals, offering rides to bus stops, explaining local info and going out of their way to assist.
Delicious traditional meals
Numerous reviews highlight outstanding kaiseki-style dinners and traditional breakfasts (fresh local dishes, fish and Hida beef mentioned), well presented and often memorable.
Beautiful, peaceful location and views
Reviewers repeatedly mention the stunning mountain/garden setting, peaceful atmosphere and scenic views around the ryokan as a major plus.
Relaxing onsen experience
Guests appreciate the onsen(s) — indoor and outdoor — describing them as lovely, peaceful and a highlight of the stay (some guests booked them for privacy).
Authentic, comfortable traditional rooms
The ryokan’s traditional tatami/futon rooms are described as cosy, clean and comfortable with comfortable bedding and a homey, authentic Japanese atmosphere.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited transport
The property is in a small mountain hamlet; many guests note it is hard to reach without a car and public transport is limited, making planning essential.
Few local dining options / dinner must be booked
There are few restaurants nearby; some reviewers advise booking the ryokan dinner in advance or bringing food, since local izakaya or shops may be closed.
Insect problems reported by some guests
A few reviews report stink bugs or more serious insect infestations in rooms; one guest described an extreme case where they slept in their car—this appears isolated but was serious for those affected.
Shared facilities and limited privacy
Several guests point out that showers/sinks are shared outside rooms and private shower rooms are not available; some onsen use is scheduled rather than 24/7.
Aging facilities and occasional cleanliness/aesthetic issues
Some reviewers note the building is older (you may hear noises), occasional onsen aesthetic issues (visible piping/tarps) or that the outdoor onsen was unavailable/unusable at times due to geothermal activity or needed maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are typically arranged for two guests on futons; the property does not accept children and extra beds are not available.
Yes — the ryokan has hot spring facilities including indoor and open‑air baths for guests to use.
The property’s main onsen are public; private or reservable baths are limited, so request availability with the ryokan before arrival.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the owners sometimes assist with pickups from nearby bus stops by prior arrangement — contact the ryokan to confirm.
The nearest listed airport is Shinshu‑Matsumoto (about 57 km); most guests reach the area by car or regional bus services from Takayama or nearby bus terminals.
Staff are friendly and helpful but mainly Japanese‑speaking; basic English support is available in many cases, so bring a translation app or ask for assistance if needed.
Suisensou offers a traditional ryokan experience with tatami rooms and futon bedding; meals are Japanese style (breakfast and dinner available, often featuring regional dishes).
The ryokan sits in the Okuhida Onsen area, with easy access to local hot spring villages, the Fukuchi morning market, Hida folk attractions, Kamikōchi day trips and nearby mountain sightseeing.
Free private parking is provided and a car is the most convenient way to explore the region; regional buses also serve Okuhida and staff may help coordinate local pick‑ups on request.
Pets are not permitted at the property; small local shops and a seasonal morning market are nearby for basic supplies and souvenirs.