Takayama Ouan
8,7/10 Excellent - Based on 3705 reviews
Takayama Ouan sits close to the station in Takayama, Gifu, combining traditional Japanese materials with contemporary guest comforts. The property emphasizes tatami throughout public areas and many guest rooms, and offers a range of room types from Japanese–Western combinations to standard twin and deluxe configurations. Practical services include a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, free Wi‑Fi and on-site parking, and the location places visitors within easy walking distance of the old town, morning markets and key historic sites.
Bathing is a central feature: the hotel operates a top‑floor open‑air onsen with wide views over the city and surrounding peaks, an indoor thermal pool with scenic sightlines, and several family-sized baths intended for short private use. The public bathing area includes a sauna, while smaller baths are maintained for private or family use on a limited‑time basis. These arrangements make the property a convenient ryokan with onsen in Gifu for travelers who want accessible hot-spring bathing without leaving the town center.
Guest rooms pair western-style beds with tatami seating areas and are equipped with tea-making facilities, refrigerators and en suite bathrooms; some room types provide space for futons. The on-site restaurant highlights regional ingredients and Hida beef preparations, and the morning buffet presents a broad selection of local Japanese dishes alongside western options; late-evening complimentary noodles are also offered. With easily accessed communal baths and bookable family baths, the hotel functions well as a ryokan with private onsen option for couples and families seeking a city-centre stay.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Takayama Ouan
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen facilities (public, rooftop and private)
Multiple reviewers praised the onsen experience: a rooftop public onsen with city and mountain views, several private onsens (useful for privacy or tattoos) and pleasant indoor/outdoor options. Many called the baths 'divine' or a highlight of the stay.
Very convenient location near station and old town
Guests repeatedly noted the hotel is a short walk from the train station and within minutes of Takayama's historic center, making it easy to visit local attractions and activities.
Friendly, attentive staff and well-organized service
Staff were described as kind, accommodating and helpful to non-Japanese speakers. The organized shoe-locker system, availability of information and overall welcome added positively to the experience.
High-quality and varied breakfast
Several reviews highlighted a very good or even outstanding breakfast with a wide variety of tasty items; many found it one of the best meals during their Japan trip.
Traditional charm and complimentary extras
The ryokan-style touches (tatami rooms, Japanese-style decor), spacious and well-equipped rooms, and daily complimentary treats (drinks, ice cream, ramen, tea, toiletries and slippers) were appreciated and added to the authentic, comfortable experience.
Negative Reviews
Can feel busy or commercial at peak times
Some guests mentioned crowding and a slightly commercial or mechanical atmosphere during busy periods, likely linked to the hotel's popularity and festival seasons.
Limited number of private onsens and short booking slots
A few reviews noted that private baths are limited in number and sometimes have time restrictions (one review mentioned a 30-minute limit), making them popular and occasionally difficult to book at preferred times.
Price increases during events or festival periods
At least one guest felt the price was excessive when staying during a festival, suggesting rates can rise significantly at busy times and may not always match expectations.
Some rooms need refreshing; bed comfort issues reported
A few guests said certain rooms looked in need of refurbishment and one specifically reported uncomfortable beds; Japanese-style rooms were described as small by some, even if many still found them charming and comfortable.
Noise or parking limitations for some guests
There were isolated complaints about railway noise for rooms facing the tracks and about parking: while some found the parking convenient, others reported no parking or limited parking availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from single and twin to Japanese‑Western styles that fit couples and small families; some rooms offer futons in addition to beds. Add the number and ages of children when booking; cribs are available on request.
Yes — the property features a rooftop open‑air natural hot spring, public baths and a sauna, plus several family/private bathing rooms with mountain views. Bath hours and access can vary, so check at reception on arrival.
Family/private baths are offered but are subject to availability and must be arranged with reception. Guests with tattoos are usually restricted to private bathing areas.
There is no regular hotel airport shuttle listed; the easiest way is to take an express bus or train to JR Takayama Station and walk a few minutes to the ryokan. Taxis and local buses also serve Takayama from the station.
Takayama Ouan is a short walk from JR Takayama Station (about 3–5 minutes) and within about a 5–10 minute walk to Takayama Old Town, Takayama Jinya and the Miyagawa Morning Market.
Staff speak Japanese and English, allowing for basic communication and assistance for international guests.
Standard check‑in begins in the afternoon (check-in window typically from 15:00) and check‑out is late morning (around 11:00); you should inform the property of your expected arrival time in advance. Exact hours may vary by rate or plan, so confirm with the hotel before travel.
Pets are not permitted at the property. If you require a service animal, contact the ryokan ahead of arrival to confirm arrangements.
Yes — convenience stores and small shops are within a short walk of the station and the old town area, making daily supplies easy to find on foot.
The ryokan has an on‑site restaurant serving a substantial breakfast buffet featuring local Hida dishes and Western items, regional specialty menus for dinner, and a late‑night complimentary ramen service in the evenings. Special dietary requests should be communicated to the hotel in advance.