Yumoto Ueyama Ryokan
9,3/10 Exceptional - Based on 186 reviews
Yumoto Ueyama Ryokan sits in the forested Shiota Onsen area near Himeji, operating since 1874 around a 300-year-old natural spring. The property emphasizes an exclusive sodium hydrogen carbonate source—drinkable spring water described as tasting like salted lemon-lime—and provides both indoor baths and open-air pools set beside a pond and a bright red bridge. Architectural details and large garden plots create quiet communal spaces, including a lobby with a fireplace and stone-lined outdoor bathing, positioning it as a ryokan with onsen in Hyōgo.
Guest accommodation ranges from classic tatami rooms to independent villa-style units in the Tsubaki block; several room types include a private hot spring bath and toilet while others share well-maintained public and family baths and an outdoor rotenburo. Interiors combine traditional elements with modern conveniences such as Wi‑Fi and free parking, and many rooms offer large windows framing seasonal foliage. For visitors seeking solitude, rooms with a private bathing area allow unhurried soaks in mineral-rich waters, making it a ryokan with private onsen in Hyōgo for those who reserve that option.
Culinary offerings follow a kaiseki approach using local produce and Tajima beef, served in the Irori Dining Keyaki or delivered to rooms on request; breakfast includes congee prepared with the spring water. Grounds feature Jizo statues, azalea and bamboo plantings that shift with the seasons, short walks through the estate, and easy car access to regional sights such as Himeji Castle. Practical services include a limited shuttle from Himeji station by prior reservation, banquet facilities, a small shop, and staff who can assist with sightseeing arrangements and timetable details.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yumoto Ueyama Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Exceptional kaiseki dinners and breakfasts
Many guests praise the multi-course kaiseki meals and breakfasts — varied, beautifully presented, abundant and delicious; several reviewers called the dining a highlight of their stay.
Warm, attentive staff and personalized service
Staff consistently described as friendly and caring; they adapt meals for dietary needs, arrange private onsen times for guests with tattoos, provide translators when needed, and offer attentive in-room or dining service.
Beautiful traditional onsens (indoor & outdoor)
Multiple reviews highlight the well-maintained outdoor stone onsen and clean indoor baths, describing them as peaceful, authentic and a major reason to visit.
Peaceful countryside setting with garden and good access
Guests appreciate the tranquil location and lovely garden, noting it provides a restful escape; the hotel's free shuttle to/from Himeji station makes the remote location practical.
Authentic ryokan experience and comfortable rooms/suites
Reviewers enjoy the traditional atmosphere (yukata, futons, tatami), tasteful room decor and some praised suites with private baths — many called it an unforgettable, genuinely Japanese stay.
Negative Reviews
Some areas and rooms feel dated or worn
Several guests noted an overall slightly old-fashioned or 'desuet' charm, with some rooms and facilities feeling a bit outdated compared with modern hotels.
Occasional cleanliness and maintenance concerns
A few reviewers reported issues such as dust on futons (problematic for allergy sufferers) and one report of mold in onsen walls, indicating inconsistent maintenance in places.
Cold in some common areas and rooms
Several guests mentioned being cold outside the heated rooms (for example when using shared facilities or going to toilets), despite rooms being well heated.
Language barriers and menu difficulties for some guests
While staff make strong efforts to communicate, a number of visitors found English limited and experienced difficulty understanding the dinner menu without assistance.
Value complaints from a minority of guests
At least one reviewer felt the high price paid (sample cited) did not match their expectations for meal quality/amenities (e.g., lack of bottled water in room, use of reusable plastic cups), so perceptions of value can vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms and suites range from single/twin layouts to family rooms; the largest family room fits up to 6 guests using futons, while many rooms accommodate 2–4 people and some allow one extra futon for a third guest.
Yes — the ryokan offers multiple hot-spring baths including Garden and Cypress public baths (typically 06:00–10:00 and 11:30–23:00), an open-air bath (usually 17:00–21:00) and a family open bath (generally 07:30–21:00); hours can vary with season or weather.
Yes — the ryokan runs a shuttle picking up from Himeji Station (around 15:30) and a return shuttle from the ryokan (about 09:50); seats are limited and pickup is generally offered for two guests or more so reserve in advance.
The nearest listed airport is Kobe Airport (about 83 km); guests normally travel to Himeji Station and then use the ryokan shuttle, a local bus or a taxi to reach the property.
The ryokan provides English information and many guests report helpful staff; English is available for common requests, though more complex arrangements may require simple phrasing or advance notice.
You can expect traditional Japanese kaiseki dinners featuring local ingredients (for example Tajima beef and local seafood) and regional breakfast items such as congee made with the spring water; meals are served in the dining room and some room types may offer in-room service.
Himeji Castle is the main nearby attraction (around 15 km, roughly a 25–30 minute drive), and the ryokan can arrange stops such as the Mt. Shosha ropeway and local gardens; regional parks and Himeji Central Park are also within driving distance.
Take JR to Himeji Station, then either catch Shinki Bus No. 51/52 to the 'Shiota' stop (about an 8‑minute walk from there) or use the ryokan’s scheduled shuttle; taxis are also a convenient option from Himeji Station.
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
Some rooms have private hot-spring baths and the family open bath can be used exclusively by guests by locking the door; the ryokan does not list an on-site supermarket, so ask the front desk about nearby shops or convenience stores, and contact the ryokan in advance to confirm their pet policy.