Hodakaso Yamano Hotel

We had a wonderful time at this ryokan. We chose this inn specifically for its remote location and traditional atmosphere and were not disappointed. The hotel, outdoor onsen, and woodsy surroundings were all excellent. The building is old and reminded me of the railroad lodges of the western United States: creaky old doors and floors, metal keys, and rotary dial phones. Other than the hotel, there are no restaurants nearby (that I know of) and dinner is an elaborate kaiseki ryori that requires advanced reservations. They were able to accommodate us for dinner when we arrived around 3:00 pm, but I recommend emailing prior to your stay to be sure you have dinner reservations for your first night if you want to eat there. Otherwise, there is instant ramen in the gift shop and hot water in the room. The staff are all very friendly. Most do not speak English but did their best to communicate with us and we were able to check in and out, make dinner and breakfast arrangements, and discuss the bus schedule without a problem. If you're coming from the south or southwest, I recommend the Hida Limited Express train to get to Takayama, then the public bus to the hotel. The train and bus rides are both wonderful scenic rides into the mountains.

Was worried about accessibility initially but the Nohi bus service dropped us off at bus stop H57, right in front of the Hotel. The hotel also provides return shuttle bus service to Shin Hotaka Ropeway. Otherwise, very comfortable stay with sumptuous Japanese dinner and breakfast prior to my departure.

The unique outdoor onsen by the riverside which you have background music of the river. The foot spa and fireplace at hotel corner were good places to enjoy peace. Kaiseki breakfast and dinner was superb.