Overview

Stay along the banks of the Nagara River, where the tradition of Ukai (cormorant fishing) comes to life right outside your window. Usho no Ie Sugiyama lets you witness this centuries-old art from your room, the riverside, or even a sightseeing boat. Gaze at Gifu Castle on Mt. Kinka while the torches of the Ukai boats light up the night, creating a scene that feels like you’ve stepped into another time.

Located in Gifu, this riverside ryokan offers direct access to cultural experiences, seasonal cuisine, and relaxing hot springs. The view, the food, and the rhythm of the river set the stage for a stay that’s both peaceful and unforgettable.

Accommodation

Choose from several room types designed for comfort and connection with the surrounding landscape:

• Rooms with Open-Air Bath: Soak in a private bath while looking out at the Nagara River. These non-smoking rooms fit 2–4 people and offer a truly tranquil space to unwind.
• Luxury Suite: Watch the Ukai performance from your window. This spacious suite fits up to six people and includes two beds and separate bath and toilet facilities. Smoking is allowed.
• Riverside Japanese-Style Rooms (Non-Smoking and Smoking): These 8–16 tatami rooms let you enjoy the river view in traditional style. Whether you prefer a smoke-free environment or not, you can find a room that fits your needs.
• Townside Japanese-Style Room (Non-Smoking): If you’re here for a quick rest or business trip, this simpler room offers a comfortable stay without river views.

Each room includes standard amenities like bath sets, futons (for three or more people), and seasonal touches. Only the open-air baths in the rooms are not sourced from natural hot springs.

Dining

Sugiyama’s meals celebrate the changing seasons and the bounty of the Nagara River. You’ll find freshly caught ayu (sweetfish) in spring and summer, and rich duck dishes in autumn and winter.

• Ayu Kaiseki: Taste natural sweetfish in multiple styles—from salt-grilled to delicately simmered. The sweetfish changes in flavor throughout the season, offering a rare culinary experience.
• Duck Cuisine: Savor wild mallard known as Aokubi, grilled on a custom iron plate used by the Imperial Household Agency. Or try duck shabu-shabu with fresh greens and tofu, finishing with a hearty duck porridge.
• Hida Beef Kaiseki: Enjoy premium cuts prepared with seasonal vegetables and a flavorful broth.
• Medicinal Mino Cuisine: A nourishing course that balances traditional flavors with wellness.
• Breakfast: Wake up to a gentle start with miso soup, rice, grilled fish, and seasonal side dishes.
• Children’s Menu: Thoughtfully prepared dishes for younger eaters.

Onsen and Wellness

Soak in the panoramic bath as Gifu Castle appears above the river or head up to the rooftop open-air bath for stargazing. Whether you prefer the indoor or outdoor option, both provide a peaceful space to relax.

• Panoramic Large Bath: Open from 15:00–24:00 and 6:00–9:00. Enjoy the view of Mt. Kinka while you bathe in natural iron-rich hot spring water.
• Rooftop Open-Air Bath: Look out over the city and castle as you unwind under the stars. This bath uses heated water and rotates between men and women.

The hot spring water comes from Mitahora Spring, known for its high iron content and mild temperature. The reddish hue forms when the water meets air, offering benefits like pain relief, muscle recovery, and improved circulation.

Guests with tattoos

If you have tattoos, you can still enjoy the baths. Please check with the front desk for private bathing options or times with fewer people.

Facilities

• Post-Bath Refreshments: Enjoy natural Gujo spring water after your soak.
• Amenities: You’ll find everything you need—body soap, shampoo, razors, cotton pads, and both men’s and women’s skincare products.
• Changing Rooms: Spacious and clean with hair dryers and toiletries available.

Check-In / Check-Out: Check-in from 15:00, check-out by 10:00

Activities

Ukai Viewing – The Main Attraction

• Sightseeing Boat Ride (19:30): After dinner, board a boat and sail beside the Ukai masters as they guide their birds to catch sweetfish under flickering torchlight.
• Late-Night Cruise (20:30): Enjoy the cool breeze and the night view of Gifu Castle on a more tranquil ride.
• Indoor & Riverside Viewing: Relax in the lobby lounge, from your room, or along the river promenade to see the spectacle from the shore.

The performance ends with the dramatic Sōgarami, where six boats line up in unison and sweep the river in a final display of fishing mastery. Afterward, head back to the ryokan and let the magic of the evening linger as you rest.

Additional Features

• Reserve meals and boat rides ahead of time for the best experience
• Free towel sets with day-use hot spring
• Allergy-friendly meals available upon request
• Seasonal kaiseki dinners available for both overnight and day-use
• Views of the Cultural Landscape of Gifu along the Middle Nagara River
• Bathing hours vary by gender and schedule, so confirm upon arrival