Yarimikan

May 15-16, 2024 From the moment we saw photos of this special place on the internet, we knew we had to stay here! The natural rock onsen baths caught our imagination - and our stay was wonderful beyond expectations! The resort is located in a forested valley is stunning, next to a rushing river. Natural mountain hot spring water is channeled into 7 lovely outdoor onsen baths, as well as ensuite baths. The facility is beautifully designed with gardens and multi-level suites, with each of the levels looking out to the river, with plenty of seating to enjoy the relaxing and lovely views. We were treated with limitless thoughtful hospitality from the moment we arrived, to the moment we left - in fact, one of our group kept commenting "the y[the staff] must think we're really special!". The suite was beautifully appointed with tatami mats, traditional Japanese decor, comfortable beds, yukata and slippers are provided along with tabi socks and plenty of clean linens. Our suite had its own private onsen bath encircled by natural stones, and constantly running hot spring water. Such a contrast to water-parched California and even Hawaii where we're from! The outdoor onsens are open all night, for viewing of the starry night sky. The kaiseki dinner was exceptional, with many many delicious small plates, each exquisitely prepared and presented - a petite, freshly caught local fish was skewered as if swimming and roasted in a salt shell. Utterly delicious! In the morning, after a similarly wonderful breakfast, we experienced a mochi-pounding session with the hotel staff and guests joining in - lots of fun - photos were provided! Transportation - It was a challenge figuring out how to get to this place - finally, we had a Japanese-speaking hotel clerk call the resort, and got instructions for the 1-hour bus ride from Takayama bus station to Shinhotaka Onsen / Nakao Kou-gen-guchi. There are buses running every hour! We walked to the resort from the bus stop when we arrived, and a shuttle van to the bus stop was thoughtfully provided by the resort when we left. PS) I was unable to upload photos. Please provide an email, because you won't want to miss seeing this beautiful place!

Lovely Ryokan, close to the busy stop. Everything is clean and the staff is friendly and attentive. Spacious room and comfortable futon. The onsen baths are lovely, on the riverside for a great view of the valley, you can "reserve" four of them for private use for a bit of time, just locking the door. Dinner was superb

Our stay was very comfortable, and the staff were kind and attentive. We really felt immersed in authentic Japanese culture. Our two-night stay was so restorative. We did not have any trouble getting time alone in the private and group onsens. We were nervous about embarassing ourselves, not knowing the details of onsen etiquette, but the room had all the clothing supplies we needed for our entire stay, and they also gave a booklet of instructions. I added on a Japanese massage, and it was great. The food was delicious, even though it was outside our comfort zone. We loved the ceremony of the dishes and courses. Tip -- there's a quick 15min walk behind the inn to a waterfall. We discovered it but don't think people often do!

A wonderful traditional Ryokan with fantastic onsen springs by a beautiful river valley. The food was delicious and the staff so helpful. We loved the walking in the area too. If you can get a room, make this part of your Japan trip, you won’t regret it!

A truly unforgettable experience - stunning location, wonderful onsen and exceptional service and food. If you can find time to make this part of your Japan trip, don't hesitate! We loved the immersive cultural experience.