Written by: Kenshin Nakai Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kenshin Nakai was born in Takayama city and is a digital marketing student dedicated to sharing the best local tips. I’m going to share the best tips from the locals ‘ perspective.
A stay at a traditional Takayama Onsen Ryokan is the ultimate Japanese experience. In other words, Onsen stands for a hot spring in Japanese. And Ryokan stands for Japanese-style hotel. It’s more than just a hotel, it’s a piece of culture. As a local, I know the best places to relax with real Hida Takayama hot spring water. Let me share my best tips to make your first ryokan stay perfect.
To fully appreciate Takayama Onsen Ryokan, it helps to understand the long and fascinating history of sake.
Why Choose an Onsen Ryokan in Takayama
Real Hot Spring Water: Takayama is close to many famous hot spring areas like Okuhida Onsen-go. Many ryokans pipe this authentic, mineral-rich water right into their baths (Source of relaxation and health).
The Hida Charm: Ryokans here offer beautiful views of the Hida landscape and a level of hospitality (which is called omotenashi) you won’t find anywhere else.
Escape the Crowds: It’s the perfect, quiet way to relax after sightseeing in the busy Old Town.
Tips for First-Time Onsen Guests
Wear a Yukata (cotton kimono)
- It’s Your Uniform: The yukata is provided by the ryokan and is your official outfit inside the building. Wear it everywhere: to the dining room, to the lobby, and certainly to the bath! It brings you comfortable vibes in Ryokan.
- How to Wear It: Remember to wrap it with the left side over the right side (wrapping right over left is only for burial). Tie the sash (obi) around your waist.
- Sizing: Don’t worry if it seems big—it’s meant to be loose and comfortable.
How to Prepare for the Onsen (The Bathing Rules)
The Changing Room: Take off everything (no swimming pants). Keep your large room towel here. You can take the small wash towel into the bathing area.
notice: If you have a tattoo, generally you should hide it with seals or bandages when entering the public bath. Many traditional Onsen still do not allow tattoos, but using seals is often acceptable for small designs. It is best to check the specific rules of ryokan if your tattoo is large.Wash Before You Soak : You must wash your whole body with soap and rinse thoroughly before getting into the bathtub. Why? Because the hot water in the main tub is shared among many people, please do not get in with your soapy body.
Relax and Soak: Immerse yourself in the bathtub to warm your body and relax. Don’t spend too long—take breaks! If you feel thirsty, you should drink water to prevent feeling dizzy. Inside an onsen, there should be a water fountain.
Wipe Down: As you leave the bathing area, quickly wipe your body with the small towel before entering the dry changing room. This is important to keep the changing room floor dry.
Meals served in your own room
A Special Dinner: Most high-quality ryokans include dinner (kaiseki) and breakfast. Dinner is often a multi-course meal served right in your room.
Local Focus: Expect amazing local dishes, including famous Hida Beef, Grilled Hoba Miso, and seasonal vegetables.
Access
Getting to the Onsen Ryokan
Where to Go: Ryokan and hotels are everywhere around Takayama. If you want a secluded feel, look for places closer to Okuhida. If you want convenience, stay close to the station or Sanmachi.
Walking is Easy: If you are staying near the station or Sanmachi, walking is very easy. Many ryokans are within a 10-15 minute walk of the main attractions.
Parking | We Have the Easiest Spot!
If you are driving to Takayama, finding parking close to some attractions can be difficult.
Our easy-to-use parking lot is the closest and most convenient place to start your tour for Takayama