In our review of this traditional Japanese inn, we found a delightful retreat nestled in the peaceful Okuhida hot spring area. Just a quick shuttle ride from the nearest bus stop, this ryokan offers a genuine taste of Japanese culture with its tatami-matted rooms, cozy fireplaces, and soothing hot spring baths.
The multi-course dinners are a real treat, showcasing local flavors and artful presentation.
While the experience is undoubtedly authentic, some travelers might find the traditional sleeping arrangements on futons a bit challenging. Plus, the remote location, while perfect for relaxation, may not suit those looking for easy access to city attractions.
This ryokan is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, culture enthusiasts eager to enjoy Japanese traditions, and anyone looking to unwind in a serene, natural setting.
If you’re after a peaceful escape with a dash of luxury and a heap of local charm, this place hits the spot.
Key Points
- Yumoto Choza is a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) located in the Okuhida Onsenkyo region of Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.
- The ryokan offers Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, Iriori fireplace, and amenities like LCD TVs and electric kettles.
- Guests can enjoy authentic Kaiseki dining featuring high-quality, seasonal ingredients for breakfast and dinner.
- The ryokan features private and public onsen (hot spring) baths, providing a rejuvenating Japanese spa experience.
- Yumoto Choza’s cozy lobby and traditional Japanese decor create a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy the cultural heritage.
Overview and Location
Yumoto Choza is a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, located in the Okuhida Onsenkyo Fukuji area of Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.
It’s only a 5-minute shuttle ride from the Fukuchi Onsen bus stop, making it easily accessible.
The ryokan is also conveniently situated 6.8 miles from the Shin Hodaka Ropeway and 25 miles from the JR Takayama Train Station.
Based on 76 reviews, Yumoto Choza has an excellent rating of 9.3 out of 10, making it a highly sought-after accommodation in the region.
Accommodation Features
The ryokan offers Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, an Iriori fireplace, and en-suite toilets.
LCD TVs, electric kettles, and green tea are provided for guests’ convenience.
Family rooms are available, accommodating various guest configurations.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, heating, and a designated smoking area.
The ryokan caters to a range of guest needs, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience.
Dining Experience
Traditional Kaiseki dining is served at Yumoto Choza, with guests enjoying breakfast and multi-course dinner in the dining room.
The breakfast is especially noted for its excellent quality, offering an authentic dining experience. Dishes are prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients to showcase the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Dinner is a multi-course affair, allowing guests to savor the complexity and artistry of Japanese cuisine. The attentive staff ensures that each meal is a memorable part of the Yumoto Choza experience.
Whether it’s the hearty breakfast or the elegant dinner, the dining experience at this ryokan is consistently praised by guests for its authenticity and exceptional quality.
Hot Springs and Baths
Both private and public onsen baths are available at the ryokan for guests to enjoy.
Visitors can relax in the large indoor and open-air bathing areas without needing to make reservations for the private baths.
The onsen features soothing hot spring waters that provide a rejuvenating experience after a day of exploring the local area.
The facilities are well-maintained, and the ryokan staff ensures a comfortable and tranquil bathing environment for all guests.
Whether seeking a private soak or a communal experience, the onsen baths at Yumoto Choza offer an authentic Japanese spa experience in the heart of the Okuhida Onsenkyo region.
Lobby and Decor
As one steps into the ryokan’s cozy lobby, a sense of rustic charm and timeless elegance instantly envelops the senses.
The space is adorned with traditional Japanese accents, including intricate wood carvings, antique furniture, and vibrant tatami mats. A central fireplace, the Iriori, anchors the room, providing a warm and inviting ambiance.
Guests can sink into plush seating areas, admiring the ryokan’s carefully curated decor that seamlessly blends modern conveniences with the Japanese aesthetic.
The overall atmosphere encourages relaxation and immersion in the ryokan’s rich cultural heritage, setting the stage for a truly memorable hospitality experience.
Parking and Room Service
Ample free parking is available on the property, accommodating guests’ vehicles with ease. Along With the free parking, Yumoto Choza offers convenient room service, allowing guests to enjoy the comfort of their room without the need to leave. A dedicated team is on hand to assist with any requests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay.
| Service | Hours | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Daily |
| Dinner | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Daily |
| Room Cleaning | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Daily |
| Concierge | 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Daily |
| Laundry | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Daily |
Check-in and Check-out
Guests can check in at Yumoto Choza from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Checkout is required by 10:00 AM.
The property has a flexible cancellation policy that varies by accommodation type, so guests should inform the property of their expected arrival time. However, guests with tattoos may face restrictions in the public bathing areas.
Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Plus, pets aren’t allowed on the premises.
Adhering to these policies ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests at this traditional ryokan in the Okuhida Onsenkyo region.
Guest Policies
Yumoto Choza maintains a number of guest policies to ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors. Check-in is available from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, while check-out must be completed by 10:00 AM. The cancellation policy varies by accommodation type, and guests are required to inform the property of their expected arrival time.
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Pets | No pets allowed |
| Quiet Hours | 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM |
| Tattoos | Guests with tattoos may have restrictions in public bathing areas |
Adherence to these policies helps maintain the serene atmosphere and traditional ambiance of the Yumoto Choza ryokan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do They Offer Any Special Events or Cultural Activities?
The ryokan offers cultural experiences for guests, including traditional tea ceremonies and demonstrations of local crafts. Guests can also participate in seasonal festivals and events that celebrate the region’s heritage and natural beauty.
What Are the Nearby Tourist Attractions or Things to Do?
The ryokan is conveniently located near several popular tourist attractions. Guests can visit the Shin Hodaka Ropeway, just 6.8 miles away, for stunning mountain views. The historic Takayama train station is also within 25 miles of the property.
Is There a Breakfast or Dinner Menu Available Online?
Unfortunately, the Ryokan’s website does not appear to provide an online menu for its traditional Kaiseki breakfast and dinner. However, guest reviews consistently praise the excellent quality and authenticity of the Ryokan’s multi-course dining experience.
Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Beverages?
Guests can typically bring their own food and drinks to the ryokan, though the property offers a traditional Kaiseki dining experience for breakfast and dinner. Some restrictions may apply, so guests should check with the staff upon arrival.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Longer Stays?
There aren’t any specific discounts or packages mentioned for longer stays at this ryokan. However, guests should check with the property directly as they may offer special rates or deals for extended bookings.
The Sum Up
Checking in at this traditional ryokan, we were immediately transported to a world of tatami mats, sliding paper doors, and the soothing sounds of nature. The attentive staff, dressed in kimonos, welcomed us with warm smiles and steaming cups of green tea.
Our room, a cozy haven of Japanese simplicity, opened up to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. But the real star of the show? The natural hot springs. Soaking in the outdoor baths under a canopy of stars became our nightly ritual, melting away the day’s adventures in Takayama.
The kaiseki dinner, a parade of exquisitely presented local delicacies, was a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. Each course told a story of the region’s culinary traditions, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next surprise.
For those seeking an authentic slice of Japanese hospitality, this ryokan hits all the right notes. It’s a perfect base for exploring the Okuhida Onsenkyo area, with the added bonus of returning to your own private onsen each evening.
Ready to experience this culture for yourself? Click the button below to check availability and book through Booking.com. We use it for all our reservations – it’s free, and their prices are usually hard to beat. Happy travels!