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Looking for the Best Ryokan in Takayama? Discover The Top 5!

  • Writer: Irene from INNspiring travels
    Irene from INNspiring travels
  • Sep 17
  • 9 min read

Updated: Oct 19

Looking for the best ryokan in Takayama? Discover my top 5 traditional stays with onsen and kaiseki dining, plus other unique guesthouses for a memorable trip.


If you’re planning a trip to the Japanese Alps, staying in a ryokan in Takayama is one of the most authentic experiences you can have.


I’m from Madrid,, but because one of my best friends is half Japanese, I’ve been coming to Japan since college, and no matter how many times I return, Japan always feels extra special.


Takayama is a charming town that feels like stepping back in time with its beautifully preserved old streets and morning markets. Traveling here usually takes a while so spending the night in a traditional ryokan here is very recommended!


Sleeping on tatami mats, soaking in a relaxing onsen, and enjoying an elaborate kaiseki dinner that feels like art on a plate.

In this guide, I’ve handpicked the best ryokans in Takayama that are my personal favorite for their authenticity, the warmth of the owners and the tradition.


If you are visiting Kyoto, Osaka or Tokyo afterwards, you can't miss the most unique ryokans and places to stay there!


I’ve also added a few of my favorite local experiences in Takayama and excursions so you can make the most of your time in this beautiful city full of tradition, definitely one of my favorite in Japan!

⛩️ If you’re planning a trip around Japan, don’t miss my insider Japan travel guide with a 10-day or 14-day itinerary to help you plan the perfect adventure. 🇯🇵 ⛩️ For more beautiful hotel guides around Japan, make sure to check out my full page about Unique Hotels in Japan!🇯🇵 ⛩️ If you’re planning to explore other countries in Asia, check out the most beautiful and unique hotels in Asia!🇯🇵

First of all, we want to thank you for reading our blog. You must know you are helping others❤️ INNspiring travels is a social travel blog that showcases unique places to stay around the world while contributing a part of its earnings through affiliate marketing to making a positive impact in disadvantaged communities worldwide.


Table of Contents

Looking for the Best Ryokan in Takayama? Discover The Top 5!

Getting to and Around Takayama, Japan

How to get to Takayama, Japan

🚂 By Train

Takayama is tucked away in the Japanese Alps, but getting there is easier than it looks. Most travelers arrive from Tokyo, Nagoya, or Kyoto/Osaka.

  • From Tokyo: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (about 1 hr 40 min) to Nagoya, then transfer to the JR Hida Limited Express Wide View train to Takayama (about 2 hrs 20 min). Total: around 4 hours.

  • From Kyoto or Osaka: Take the Shinkansen to Nagoya (about 35–50 min), then hop on the Hida Limited Express to Takayama (about 2 hrs 20 min).

  • From Nagoya: The most direct route – just board the Hida Limited Express straight to Takayama in about 2 hrs 20 min. I always recommend booking a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel to several cities, it makes life so much easier. I usually buy it my tickets here in advance!


👉 Tip: If you’re planning to explore more of the Japanese Alps (Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa, etc.), the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass can save you money on trains and buses.

While you don’t need a car to explore Takayama itself (the town is small and walkable), renting one can be a great idea if you want to visit the surrounding Japanese Alps at your own pace. Places like Shirakawa-go, Okuhida Onsen Villages, or even a scenic drive through the mountains are much easier and more flexible with a car.


  • Rental offices are conveniently located near Takayama Station.


  • Just remember: in Japan they drive on the left, and you’ll need an International Driving Permit to rent a car as a foreigner.


  • Check out our favorite car rental site here.

Preview Map of the most Unique and BEST Ryokans in Takayama, Japan



Where to Stay in Takayama: 5 BEST Ryokans in Takayama, Japan


  1. IRORIYADO HIDAYA

Gifu, Takayama, Japan

From 350€/night, 1-6 pax

If you are looking for the best ryokan in Takayama, Iroriyado feels like pure magic. The historical building is beautiful and perfectly maintained, the futons are super comfy, and the onsen baths are spotless. What really makes it special though is the staff, they go out of their way to make you feel at home, help with little details like restaurant bookings, and even offer a kimono experience. Breakfast is delicious, and the onsen is included in the stay. If you’re looking for an authentic Japanese experience, this is the place! 👉 Check more photos of Iroriyado Hidaya Ryokan here.


  1. SUMIYOSHI RYOKAN

Gifu, Takayama, Japan

From 150€/night, 1-5 pax

Staying here feels like stepping back in time in the best possible way. This family-run ryokan is warm, homely, and filled with antiques that make it feel like a living museum. The hosts are incredibly kind and attentive, always ready to help, and they welcome you with tea and sweets on arrival. The highlight is the food: multi-course kaiseki dinners and beautifully presented breakfasts. With a central location right by the river and Takayama’s old town just a short walk away, this ryokan is one of the most authentic and best ryokans in Takayama. 👉 More photos of Sumiyoshi Ryokan here.


  1. RYOKAN ASUNARO

Gifu, Takayama, Japan

From 200€/night, 1-6 pax

A charming and authentic traditional ryokan in the heart of Takayama. Feel like a Japanese sleeping on tatami mats, wearing yukatas, and relaxing in the onsen. The rooms are spacious and cozy, while the reception and dining areas are beautifully decorated, creating an elegant yet homely atmosphere. Both breakfast and dinner are highly praised, with elaborate multi-course Japanese meals. The location is also excellent, just a short walk from Takayama’s train and bus stations, making it ideal for travelers arriving by public transport. With authentic spaces and lovely staff, Asunaro Ryokan is definitely one of my favorite and best ryokans in Takayama. 👉 Check more photos of Asunaro Ryokan here.


  1. MACHIYADO ICHIRYU

Gifu, Takayama, Japan

From 400€/night, 1-5 pax

We stayed here during our visit to Takayama, and it was an absolutely incredible experience. This boutique ryokan is an oasis of luxury right in the center of town, but set on a quiet street, only steps from the main sights you will visit. The rooms are big, beautifully designed and some even come with a private onsen for the ultimate treat. The staff is so kind and went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. The ryokan also gives you the option to enjoy exquisite kaiseki dinners, the best we had in Japan, in a beautifully restored machiya house. You won't regret staying at Machiyado Ichiryu, an unforgettable highlight of any trip to this lovely city and for me, the best ryokan in Takayama! 👉 More photos of Machiyado Ichiryu Ryokan here.


  1. RYOKAN KAMINAKA

Gifu, Takayama, Japan

From 150€/night

If you’re looking for an authentic but affordable stay in Takayama, Ryokan Kaminaka is perfect! Housed in a beautifully preserved traditional building with tatami mats, sliding paper doors, and warm wooden interiors, it feels like staying at your lovingly Japanese grandmother's beautiful home. I love their homey atmosphere and the kindness of the hosts, who make you feel genuinely welcome from the moment you arrive. The Japanese breakfast here is also a highlight: delicious, beautifully presented, and served with care. With only a handful of rooms, you can also enjoy the onsen in privacy, and yukatas are provided for that full traditional experience. Highly recommended and definitely one of the best ryokans in Takayama. 👉 Check out Ryokan Kaminaka here.


Other Unique Ryokans in Takayama, Japan

If you’re still looking for the BEST ryokan in Takayama, here are some other amazing and unique stays worth checking out:


  • Luxury stay for families: Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan – A refined and elegant ryokan perfect if you’re traveling with kids or extended family but still want a luxurious Japanese experience.


  • Charming city-center ryokans: Oyado Koto No Yume and Ryokan Tanabe 旅館田邊 are both fantastic options right in the heart of Takayama, with traditional tatami rooms and warm hospitality.


  • Private villas for large groups or families: If you prefer more space, book a private villa like お宿一の華 (sleeps 11), HIDA TAKAYAMA BASE: a Traditional Japanese Garage House with Private Sauna, or one of the IORI Stays for a more independent but still authentic experience.


  • Unique ryokans around Takayama: For something extra special, Yunohirakan offers a peaceful retreat, while Wanosato (Michelin Key awarded) is an unforgettable luxury stay in a 160-year-old Gassho-zukuri thatched-roof house hidden in the woods. And don’t miss SOY, a small ryokan with an outstanding 9.9 guest rating that’s all about warmth, design, and authenticity.


  • Adults-only ryokan near Takayama: Hidaji



Other Things to Know about Visiting Takayama, Japan




🍣 Food Experiences in Takayama



🌿 Best Day Trips from Takayama




𑁍 Best eSIM Option for Reliable Data in Japan

We use this eSIM during our trips to Japan and it makes a world of difference! Instead of searching for local SIM cards or worrying about unreliable WiFi, it activates instantly, is very affordable, and keeps us connected for whatever we need.


If you’re planning a visit to Japan, we highly recommend this eSIM for seamless connectivity throughout your stay! Check it out here :)


Traveling around Japan and Final Thoughts

⛩️ If you’re planning a trip around Japan, don’t miss my insider Japan travel guide with a 10-day or 14-day itinerary to help you plan the perfect adventure. 🇯🇵 ⛩️ For more beautiful hotel guides around Japan, make sure to check out my full page about Unique Hotels in Japan!🇯🇵 ⛩️ If you’re planning to explore other countries in Asia, check out the most beautiful and unique hotels in Asia!🇯🇵


🌼 Read more blog posts about Unique Hotels in Asia below! 🇯🇵


Travel Tips and Discounts

To make your trip even more enjoyable, we’ve partnered with various travel companies and services to offer exclusive travel discounts. From luggage storage, car rentals, e-sim cards, travel insurances, travel gear and special offers on attractions and lifetime experiences. Don't miss them.


Have an amazing trip in Takayama!

With love,

Irene


*Hotel photographs are always owned by hotels except when mentioned otherwise.

*INNspiring travels contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you.

Hello and welcome! My name is Irene and I am the Spanish creator from Madrid behind INNspiring travels: a social travel blog which mission is to showcase the world's most beautiful hotels and authentic places to stay, while helping people and children in disadvantaged communities around the globe. My journey as a traveler began at a young age, traveling the world with my family and exploring new destinations on every occasion. However, it wasn't until my 20's that my passion for travel really took off. This desire to see the world and learn about other cultures, combined with my deep desire to help others, led me to create this social travel blog. It’s my way of sharing my love for travel, while also making a difference. Learn more about me and my vision here.

Irene, founder of INNspiring travels, steering a boat on open water. She wears a dark jacket and scarf. Blue sea and sky in the background, with a covered canopy.

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