Overview
Okada Ryokan and its annex, Warakutei, welcome you to Hirayu Onsen—one of Japan’s oldest and most cherished hot spring resorts. Tucked into the heart of the Northern Alps near Mt. Norikura, this ryokan blends more than a century of tradition with scenic beauty, warm hospitality, and natural hot spring water flowing straight from the source.
Whether you stay in the spacious main building or the intimate village-style annex, you’ll find a peaceful retreat surrounded by mountains, history, and healing waters.
Accommodation
You can choose from two distinct styles of stay—Okada Ryokan’s main building or the charming annex, Warakutei.
Okada Ryokan Main Building
The main building offers genuine Japanese-style rooms with views of the surrounding mountains. You can stretch out on tatami mats, gaze at the forest through your window, and experience timeless comfort. Every room includes a private bath and toilet, along with classic amenities like a yukata, toothbrush, refrigerator, and drawstring bag.
Annex Warakutei
Warakutei gives you a more rustic experience in a remodeled 150-year-old village house. Each of the 10 rooms includes both an indoor and open-air bath filled with natural hot spring water. The layout and wood scent invite you to unwind completely. Some rooms offer double-layer layouts or accessible designs. Female guests receive a colorful yukata to wear during their stay.
Dining
Dinner at Okada Ryokan or Warakutei centers around Hida beef—famous for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Skilled chefs carefully select beef with individual identification numbers to ensure top quality. You’ll enjoy traditional kaiseki courses served either in a private dining room or in a cozy space around an irori (sunken fireplace).
At Warakutei, you can dine in your room or in the IRORI hall if you’re in a smaller group. Larger groups dine in the main hall, HIROMA. Every dish features seasonal, local ingredients from the Hida region, prepared with care and served in a relaxed atmosphere.
Onsen and Wellness
Hot springs are the heart of Okada Ryokan and Warakutei. The water flows from four natural sources and pours out 1,500 liters every minute—so there’s no need for recycling. You can soak in pure, untreated spring water and feel its gentle effect on your skin and body.
Open-Air Baths
Enjoy scenic views with every season. Soak under fresh green mountains in summer, admire fiery foliage in autumn, or sit in warm water while snow blankets the trees in winter. The open-air baths let you connect with nature as you bathe.
Grand Bath – Yawaragi no Yu
This public bath features red granite walls, a fragrant wooden floor, and relaxing options like a jacuzzi, jet bath, and utase-yu—a strong stream that flows from above. The feel of the wood under your feet adds a natural warmth.
Private Baths
You can reserve a private bath for exclusive use. Choose from:
- Fudo-no-Yu – Includes a tatami-matted indoor bath and a rock-lined outdoor bath
- Yakushi-no-Yu – A semi-indoor bath made from a massive cauldron
Both include an exclusive lounge and sauna so you can enjoy your time without interruption.
Guests with Tattoos
If you have tattoos, ask the front desk about using the public or private baths. The private baths are especially suitable if you prefer more privacy during your stay.
Facilities
Okada Ryokan offers everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay:
- Wide open lobby with mountain views
- Lounge space for relaxing and browsing historical artifacts
- Souvenir shop with local sake and Hida-themed gifts
- Dining areas with irori fireplaces
- Colorful yukata available for women staying at Warakutei
- Wheelchair-accessible room options
Activities
Hirayu Onsen is a perfect base for exploring Japan’s mountainous heart. You can head out to:
- Kamikochi – A scenic highland valley with hiking trails and rivers
- Shinhotaka Ropeway – Japan’s highest cable car with panoramic views
- Hirayu Onsen Ski Resort – Just minutes away during the winter months
- Norikuradake – A popular peak for outdoor lovers
- Hida Takayama and Furukawa – Towns full of preserved Edo-era streets and culture
- Shirakawago – A UNESCO World Heritage village of thatched-roof farmhouses
- Satoyama Cycling and Gattan Go – Adventure and cycling through peaceful countryside
Additional Features
- More than 100 years of onsen tradition
- 100% natural spring water with no recycling
- Private and shared bath options
- Dining with award-winning Hida beef
- Mountain-view rooms and historic annex house
- Friendly, helpful service in a relaxed alpine setting