Best Boutique Hotels in Takayama

Hidaji (Adult Only)

“When in Japan… bathe like the Japanese.” That’s the best way to describe Hidaji, and it sums things up perfectly. This boutique-style ryokan is for those who want the full traditional experience but don’t want to compromise on comfort.

Tucked away in the peaceful Northern Alps, Hidaji offers large Japanese-style rooms, all with private bathrooms and many with their own onsen. The futons are firm, the rooms come with kotatsu tables, and the views are absolutely serene.

Meals are a highlight. With full kaiseki-style breakfasts and dinners featuring local Hida beef, wild vegetables, and flavors you likely won’t find again.

Hidaji isn’t an average Takayama hotel. It’s adult-only, quiet, and intentional. You come here to rest, soak, and breathe fresh mountain air. You’ll have access to bookable private baths and two large public onsen. Something everyone loves? You get free drinks in the lounge and snacks in-room.

Now, keep this in mind: it’s remote. You’ll need about an hour by bus from JR Takayama Station. But if you plan ahead, the hotel can pick you up from the bus stop at Fukuchi Onsenguchi.

Thanks to its location, you might spot wild monkeys from your balcony in the early morning. You can also enjoy snowy open-air baths in complete silence.

This hotel is a destination in itself. Not for rushing. Not for nightlife. But to enjoy top-tier Japanese hospitality in a truly peaceful setting.

Good to know: The ryokan is very traditional. Separate futons, scheduled meals, and minimal soundproofing. Bring earplugs, relax into the rhythm, and enjoy the disconnection.

What about the Location?

You’ll find Hidaji (Adult Only) in the Okuhida Onsen-go Fukuchi area, about 25 minutes from the Shinhotaka Ropeway and near Kamikochi.

THE MACHIYA HOTEL TAKAYAMA

Rooms at THE MACHIYA HOTEL TAKAYAMA come with what you need and more! Fully equipped with flat-screen TVs, safes, kettles, and modern bathrooms. Some units even include a kitchenette, ideal for longer stays.

While the hotel doesn’t have an elevator, it makes up for it with personalized service, meticulous cleanliness, and thoughtful extras like complimentary snacks in the afternoon. Here you are located in one of Takayama’s most walkable areas. Just a short stroll from both the station and the historic Old Town. Honestly, it’s an ideal base for exploring without the crowds right outside your window.

The hotel offers a mix of Western and Japanese-style rooms, some with balconies overlooking the serene river or inner gardens. The hotel offers private onsen reservations, complimentary tea and coffee 24/7, and a stylish communal lounge perfect for winding down or meeting other travelers.

What about the Location?

Wanosato

At Wanosato, you’ll stay in a 160-year-old traditional Gassho-zukuri house. The hotel is surrounded by forest and a peaceful mountain river that you can hear from your room. Each suite features tatami floors, futon bedding, a private bathroom, and thoughtful amenities like yukata, slippers, and locally sourced toiletries.

You get a reserved private onsen session on arrival, followed by free access to the shared indoor hot spring baths overlooking nature.

The staff serves meals in the main dining area, following the kaiseki style: seasonal, beautifully presented, and deeply traditional. Dinner often includes multiple courses with fresh vegetables, river fish, and wagyu, while the Japanese breakfast is just as abundant.

Good to know: The inn’s structure uses no nails, only interlocking beams and thatch, a disappearing craft in Japan.

What about the Location?

Wanosato is 20 minutes from JR Takayama Station (free shuttle available with reservation) and about 70 minutes by car from Shirakawago.

Mozumo (Adult Only)

Looking to disconnect in total privacy? Mozumo is an adults-only ryokan hidden in the mountains of Gifu, about an hour from Takayama. It’s remote, quiet, and built for full relaxation. Every suite includes a private outdoor onsen bath with real hot spring water. Expect tatami floors, minimalist design, and huge windows that bring the forest right into your room.

In the rooms you get a sleeping area, living space, and a spacious private bathroom. The highlight? Sliding glass doors that let you soak in the onsen while breathing mountain air, even in winter.

Full ryokan meals are available (extra cost), with traditional Japanese dishes like hoba miso and seasonal sukiyaki. The staff speaks English and will walk you through every detail. There’s also free private parking.

Good to know: Meals aren’t included by default. Book them ahead!

What about the Location?

Temple Hotel Takayama Zenkoji

If you want more than just a bed and Wi-Fi, Temple Hotel Takayama Zenkoji gives you an experience. This isn’t a typical hotel, it’s an actual working Buddhist temple where guests can sleep, meditate, and even join the morning prayers. That makes it one of the most unique places to stay in Takayama.

Inside, you’ll find a peaceful garden, a shared lounge, and minimalistic rooms with futons or Western-style beds, depending on what you book. Some rooms have kitchenettes. All have a fridge and electric blankets (a detail you’ll love during colder months).

Something you really need to know is that the bathrooms are shared, so if you’re expecting a private en-suite, this isn’t your spot, but for those open to it, the whole stay feels authentic and welcoming.

Here, you’re not just staying at a temple, you’re living in one, even if just for a night. Many guests highlight the meditations and Buddhist teachings as the most memorable parts of their trip. Plus, the host Kaiji is well-known for his warmth and willingness to explain temple life and Japanese culture without making it awkward.

Here are some things you should know: Morning prayers and meditation sessions are free to join. Not all rooms are close to the bathroom, so ask in advance if that’s important to you. And there’s private parking, a shared kitchen, and luggage storage available.

Good to know: The temple has samurai-era origins, and parts of the structure still reflect that history. You’re literally sleeping in a place that predates many modern buildings in the city.

What about the Location?

You’re in a great location, just a 10-minute walk from Takayama Station and close to the Fujii Folk Museum.

eph TAKAYAMA

If you’re looking for a hotel that balances style, smart design, and unbeatable location, eph TAKAYAMA delivers. Just a three-minute walk from Takayama Station, this hotel nails the concept of “compact luxury.” Guests favorite? The hinoki (cypress wood) bathtubs. They elevate even a short stay into a moment of pure comfort.

The rooms are small, but efficient. There’s great flow, high-quality linens, separated bathrooms, and thoughtful perks like yukatas, mineral water, and even in-room air purifiers. Some rooms come with balconies. The minimalist layout gives just what you need without clutter.

One surprising standout? The breakfast. You choose between two set menus when you check in, both beautifully plated and nutritious. Expect items like fresh smoothies, warm vegetable stews, or crusty croissants with local yogurt. The onsite café also serves simple lunch and dinner options. And yes, there’s fish and chips if you want a break from miso.

The hotel offers Australian and Japanese fusion cuisine, a nod to the owner’s international roots. It’s one of the only places in town where you can pair miso soup with a panini and still feel like it makes perfect sense.

Good to know: Location is prime, you can walk everywhere, even with luggage.

What about the Location?

Located just off the main road and barely a block from the station, eph TAKAYAMA sits in a great area for exploring both the Old Town and nearby cafes, markets, and museums. You're within 600 meters of restaurants, shops, and key attractions like the Fujii Folk Museum and Yoshijima Heritage House.

HOTEL WOOD TAKAYAMA

Welcome to HOTEL WOOD TAKAYAMA. Rooms here are spacious by Japanese standards. And guess what? There’s free sake tasting at reception and soothing onsen baths, just what a boutique hotel in Takayama should offer!

Your stay starts with thoughtful details: air conditioning, desks to work or write postcards, bidets in spotless bathrooms, and plush towels and bedding. Then there’s the complimentary coffee, perfect for fueling a morning exploring the old town. My favorite part? The welcome drinks in the twilight lounge. Great atmosphere. Friendly staff. You can sip sake while planning your day.

Car parking is available for a fee and the team can guide your next cycling adventure or recommend the best local café.

Fun fact: the hotel’s cedar wood interiors are crafted from trees that survived the 1950s fire that burned much of Takayama. That’s resilience built into every beam!

Good to know: The staff are bilingual and ready to book a bike tour or help with a sake souvenir.

What about the Location?

Location matters. And this hotel nails it. Just an 11‑minute walk from Takayama Station, HOTEL WOOD lets you dive into those charming morning markets and historic streets. You’ll also be close to Fujii Folk Craft Museum, Yoshijima Heritage House, and Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine.