Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have always been the most popular tourist cities in Japan. Because they are the top destinations, crowds can get crazy, especially during holidays!

Then there’s Gifu – a beautiful prefecture that combines timeless culture and traditional villages. Although more remote than usual, this unique area provides peace and relaxation – away from the hustle and bustling noise. Can we also talk about how the locals are just overly friendly and welcoming? Gifu is one of the Japanese prefecture with the nicest people that can make you blend in more easily.

Of course, if you want to make your stay in Gifu worth it, you’ll likely want to stay in a traditional Japanese inn or ryokan for a complete experience. Fortunately, we’re here to help! Tucked away among the beautiful forests of Takayama, Wanosato Ryokan has stood the test of time with its outstanding historical architecture, breathtaking views, and price-worthy facilities.

Curious to learn more? Read this guide to find out!

History and Concept

One reason behind Wanosato Ryokan’s unique architecture is nature. The 160-year-old main building is also a reconstruction of a previously wealthy farmer’s mansion.

If you pay well enough attention to details, you’ll notice that the roofs are covered in lichen, and the walls have pressed-earthy colors. You can also observe that the ryokan’s ceilings and floors are stuck with uncut tree branches, making it look like you are indeed inside a forest straight out of a storybook!

Additionally, this 160-year-old ryokan’s entire exterior is made up of obsidian black timbers, so it looks like it’s standing out from the streets. Plus, did you know that it’s only one of the rare structures with a Gasso-zukuri thatched roof? With a total area of about 45,000 sqm, Wanosato has vast Japanese gardens, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

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Location

Because Wanosato is a mountainside ryokan, you would think reaching it by public transport is impossible. Well, you’re wrong! What’s great about Wanosato is that it offers a free shuttle service if you’re coming from Takayama Station, which is about two hours from Nagoya. The free shuttle service is only available every 2 to 5 pm, and you need to reserve in advance.

Wanosato Ryokan is only 20 minutes from the crowd favorite and historic Takayama. Traditional Japanese villages and forested hills surround this five-star accommodation.

Moreover, although Wanosato Ryokan is a mountainside destination, it’s also close to famous restaurants and tourist spots in Takayama. While staying here, you can visit Takayama Sakana and Kochi, a renowned art bar and coffee shop.

Popular tourist attractions near the ryokan include the Hida Folk Village, Hida Takayama Museum of Art, Fuji Art Folk Craft Museum, and Takayama Showa-kan Museum.

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Ryokan Facilities

Wanosato Ryokan has all the amenities and facilities you would expect from a typical ryokan or hotel. Its WiFi connection is fast and stable, and all rooms have private bathrooms. With only 8 rooms, there’s no doubt you’ll feel the intimacy and peace you need for an ultimate relaxing vacation in Japan. These rooms are also all covered with tatami mats.

Wanosato Ryokan also features the irori heart, a local fireplace where guests can sit around while enjoying the warmth and comfort of one another. This traditional Japanese inn also has a communal onsen and private baths in each room. Dining is also remarkable, but we’ll get more into that in a bit!

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Onsen

Gifu Prefecture officially registered Wanosato’s hot spring as Hida Kuraiyama Onsen back in 2010. The hot water offers warmth that can relieve your body of daily fatigue. There’s also a rock bath with stones from the Jomon Era. Try the Hinoki Bath or the Japanese Cypress Onsen for a milder spring quality.

The hot springs at Wanosato are famous for their heat retention and cell activation and are believed to be moisturizing. If you want to experience a Japanese bath with beautiful forest views, we suggest trying the Full-Hinoki bath with a unique cypress fragrance.

Should you prefer your own space and privacy, get the rooms equipped with private hinoki baths. However, since these are indoor, the water is not from the hot springs.

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Rooms

Despite being traditional, you will love how cozy the rooms at Wanosato are. There are four different types of rooms built in gassho-zukuri style. If you’re willing to spend more, unique rooms for VIP guests are also available for reservations. These feature traditional Shunkei Nuri lacquerware and Hida wood for the furniture pieces.

The windows are single-glass structures, letting in sunlight in the morning. The rooms are also covered with tatami mats and feature soft futon bedding, showcasing the perfect Japanese style.

The bedrooms are spacious and can fit up to four guests. Private bathrooms have flush basins and complimentary luxurious toiletries. For the best part, all suites also feature the rejuvenating Full-Hinoki bath.

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Food and Cuisine

Wanosato Ryokan also takes dining seriously. Beyond the relaxing rooms and serene onsens, you will also love how exquisite its authentic Japanese cuisine is. All dishes are prepared with the freshest and finest ingredients for the perfect and unforgettable kaiseki meal.

Meat lovers will find the mouth-watering Hida beef the best in town! The flavorful wild vegetables are also locally grown, so expect nothing but the best from your breakfast or dinner. Try the Awana (rockfish) and Ayu (sweetfish) for seafood lovers.

Wanosato Ryokan also believes that dishes should be as presentable as they are tasty. Order anything and you’ll definitely find them appetizing and enticing to your eyes!

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From Wanosato Ryokan’s convenient location to the unique architecture, calming hot springs, cozy rooms, and exquisite dining experience, you’ll never run out of reasons why it’s worth visiting. The staff also provides an impeccable service, adding to the ryokan’s luxury and elegance.

Have you stayed at Wanosato Ryokan? What’s one thing you can’t forget about this accommodation? Let us know!

If you’re curious about other stylish ryokans, check out our list of the most luxurious ryokans in Osaka.