Overview

For over 160 years, Juhachiro has welcomed travelers along the peaceful banks of the Nagara River. Originally named “Yamamotoya,” this small ryokan changed its name in 1860 to honor a poem left by the famous poet Matsuo Basho. Since then, Juhachiro has become a landmark of Gifu Minato-machi, known for its deep connection to local history, traditional hospitality, and its onsen with rare iron-rich waters.

Accommodation

Every room at Juhachiro offers a blend of classic Japanese comfort with beautiful river or mountain views.

Suite Rooms (River-View, Open-Air Bath): Spacious suites like “Minato” and “Seiryo-no-ma” include open-air baths and multiple tatami rooms, perfect for small groups or families.

Japanese-Style Rooms (River-View, Open-Air Bath): Enjoy a cozy stay in these 10-tatami mat rooms with private open-air baths.

Japanese Modern Bedrooms: Rooms with twin or triple beds and a mix of Western and Japanese touches offer flexibility for couples or small groups.

Standard Japanese Rooms: These rooms feature river views and traditional tatami layouts, ideal for travelers looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.

All rooms include Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and amenities like yukata, tea sets, and toiletries.

Dining

Meals at Juhachiro reflect the seasonal richness of Gifu and the clear waters of the Nagara River.

Dinner: Kaiseki meals feature seasonal dishes prepared with skill and artistry. Hida beef, a local delicacy, is highlighted in the hot pot dish, alongside sashimi, grilled fish, and simmered vegetables.

Menu Highlights:

• Sesame tofu appetizer
• Hida spinach, chestnut lily root ball, grilled shiitake temari sushi
• Scallop with seaweed, turnip-dressed soup
• Sashimi selection
• Steamed shrimp and lotus root bun
• Rice with sweetfish and pickled vegetables
• Seasonal desserts

Chef Isao Nishioka brings decades of culinary expertise, crafting dishes that balance local tradition and delicate presentation.

Onsen and Wellness

Relax in Nagaragawa Onsen, known for its unique reddish-brown mineral water that warms you deeply from within.

Spa ‘Kawa-no-se’ (2F): Overlooking the river, this bath includes stained glass details, a large Meiji-era storehouse bath, outdoor rock baths, herb and silky baths, and lying baths.

Spa ‘Kawa-no-ne’ (1F): The largest open-air bath in the area, offering herbal blends, silky micro-bubble baths, and whirlpools set in stone tubs with scenic views.

Water Quality: Rich in iron and radon, this rare spring is clear at the source but turns amber when exposed to air. It helps with fatigue, coldness, joint pain, and skin conditions.

Baths are separated by gender and switch times daily. Please note that those with tattoos are not permitted in public baths.

Guests with Tattoos

Unfortunately, individuals with tattoos are not allowed to use the onsen facilities, in keeping with local policy. Please contact the ryokan in advance to discuss alternatives if needed.

Facilities

Lobby & Lounge: Relax with river views and a cup of tea or coffee. Basho’s poem, carved into a plaque, adds historical charm.

Souvenir Shop: Choose from sweetfish-shaped sweets, herbal bath salts, Juhachiro sake, and local Gifu specialties.

Play Area for Kids: Blocks, books, and origami make it easy for children to unwind. You can borrow books to your room for bedtime reading.

Yukata Rentals: Women can choose a stylish yukata for strolling or watching cormorant fishing.

Exclusive Dock Access: Use a private passage from the ryokan directly to the boats for cormorant fishing.

Activities

Cormorant Fishing: Watch this traditional fishing method practiced on the Nagara River during summer nights. Juhachiro offers a private path to the boarding dock.

Kawaramachi Walking Tour: Stroll through Gifu’s historic district lined with old merchant houses and quiet stone paths.

Nearby Attractions: Gifu Castle, Mount Kinka, and the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum are within easy reach.

Additional Features

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
• Access from Nagoya in about 20 minutes by train
• A designated restaurant for Hida beef
• Onsen selected among Japan’s top 100
• Check-in from 3:00 p.m., check-out at 10:00 a.m.