Tsuyukusa
8,8/10 Excellent - Based on 827 reviews
Tsuyukusa sits in the Okuhida Hirayu onsen village, a compact Japanese inn three minutes’ walk from the Hirayu bus terminal and positioned for day trips to Kamikōchi, the Shinhotaka Ropeway and Mount Norikura. Operated as an unmanned property, arrivals use an emailed PIN code for automated self-check-in and can contact staff via an iPad at the entrance for assistance. The layout and location make this ryokan with onsen in Okuhida, Gifu a practical base for Northern Japan Alps sightseeing.
Accommodation emphasizes traditional tatami rooms with futon bedding across a small inventory that includes a separate guesthouse annex; bathrooms and some facilities are shared depending on room type. Public areas are functional and guest-focused: a communal kitchen for dormitory guests, a launderette in the annex, luggage storage and a massage chair in the common area. Meals are Japanese-style using local ingredients and a simple morning offering is provided; standard check-in is from mid-afternoon with an early-morning check-out requirement and seasonal driving advisories for winter months.
The hot spring provision comprises three private baths — indoor and an open-air option — sourced from a bicarbonate-type spring containing sodium, calcium and magnesium minerals. Baths are operated on a first-come, first-served basis and can be used without additional fee; guests secure privacy by occupying and locking the bath room as instructed. For travelers seeking a compact, self-service experience with direct access to mountain scenery and regional activities, the property functions as a ryokan with private onsen in Gifu that pairs a quiet, traditional interior with straightforward facilities.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Tsuyukusa
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen facilities
Multiple high-quality hot springs reported across reviews, including private onsen options and an enjoyable outdoor terrace bath. Guests praised the onsen experience as a highlight of their stay.
Very convenient location
Several guests noted the ryokan is right next to the bus station, making early departures and trips to nearby attractions (Kamikochi, Takayama) very easy. The village location also offers many other local onsen and restaurants.
Authentic traditional atmosphere
Traditional Japanese rooms with tatami, futons and yukata contribute to an authentic experience. Reviewers appreciated the charm, decor and the ‘old-Japan’ feel they were seeking.
Clean, spacious and peaceful rooms with warm hospitality
Many reviews mention clean, large and quiet rooms as well as welcoming, family-run service. Hosts are described as warm and helpful, adding to a comfortable, relaxed stay.
Useful extras and shared amenities
Guests appreciated extras such as a free massage chair, complimentary tea and coffee (and some shared breakfast items), a small shared kitchen in some units, and free parking — all seen as convenient additions.
Negative Reviews
Pricey for the area
A few guests commented that the ryokan felt somewhat expensive, noting that the region in general can be costly, which may affect perceptions of value.
Basic rooms / shared facilities in some options
Some room types are very simple — no private shower, shared toilets and minimal furnishings. Reviewers warned that certain rooms are rudimentary and best suited for travellers expecting a rustic setup.
Check-in process and staff availability / language
Several guests reported a somewhat slow or complicated check-in experience and limited staff presence. A number of reviewers also noted language barriers and recommended using translation tools when needed.
Bedding comfort issues
Multiple guests mentioned futon comfort problems: futons sometimes weren’t pre-laid, felt hard or lacked sufficient padding and pillows. Some suggested extra bedding or pillows would improve sleep comfort.
Limited kitchen equipment in some accommodations
While some units have a small shared kitchen, others lack kitchen equipment or facilities, which disappointed guests who hoped to self-cater.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from single rooms to family rooms; several traditional Japanese rooms sleep 2–4 on futons while larger rooms and annex dormitory options can accommodate up to seven guests using futons.
The ryokan has multiple on-site hot spring baths including indoor and open-air options and three private baths that guests may use when available; the water is from a natural bicarbonate spring.
No dedicated airport shuttle is listed; the property is a one-minute walk from Hirayu Onsen Bus Terminal, which links to local buses and Takayama.
Take a bus from JR Takayama Station to Hirayu Onsen (about 60 minutes) and walk one minute to the ryokan; driving is also common for reaching nearby attractions.
Staff are used to international guests and can assist in basic English; bringing a translation app is recommended for complex requests.
Guests stay in tatami rooms with traditional futons, can wear provided yukata, and enjoy Japanese-style meals prepared with local ingredients for an authentic ryokan experience.
Kamikōchi is about a 25-minute drive, Shinhotaka Ropeway about 30 minutes, Shirakawago roughly 90 minutes by car, and local Hirayu Onsen attractions and ski areas are within walking or short driving distance.
Standard times listed are check-in from 15:00 and check-out by 10:00; please confirm exact times with the property before arrival.
There are three private baths available for guests to use when free; pets are not permitted on the premises.
There are convenience stores and restaurants within walking distance, and the ryokan serves traditional Japanese meals using local ingredients with breakfast typically served at 07:30; dormitory guests have access to a communal kitchen.