Ryokans in Nakatsugawa

We had an incredible time here. Exceptional food, beautiful surroundings and everyone was incredibly welcoming and kind. The onsen was also lovely.

The hotel is a few minutes away from the train stations. There are many restaurants in the area. The first floor is nicely decorated and provides tips for travels in the area. They also provide a simple complimentary breakfast (packaged soups and pastries).

A thoroughly lovely place, well off the beaten track. Excellent hot springs facilities. Excellent food. Wonderful place to pause and relax amid busy travels.

This traditional inn is a little jewel. We were blown away by the kindness and hospitality of the ladies who run the place. It’s located a bit outside of town, but Emi and Junko were always happy to give us a ride. The meals are gorgeously prepared feasts - good luck if you can finish! The hotel also arranged a “Zazen experience” at a historic temple nearby, which was very interesting. We will treasure our memories of the Totoro and its wonderful staff!

Beautiful, gorgeous scenery with waterfall right off the hot spring deck! Excellent meals. Koike-san and everyone were gracious, helpful, and attentive to every need.

Very beautiful property in the Mountains with great views. The food was unique to the area and delicious. Onsens were very relaxing and staff very attentive.

Super friendly and clean, very warm hospitality and great Japanese style families experience. Highly recommended!

The tranquil and zen feel the entire place has. The staff went above and beyond to communicate and make sure the whole stay went smooth.

When I booked the room, I thought it was located in the city of Gifu, since that’s what my search was for. I had previously taken a workshop in Seki, which is about half an hour from Gifu, so it seemed like a convenient option. It wasn’t until I arrived by train in Gifu and encountered a very confused taxi driver that I discovered the hotel was actually in Gifu Prefecture, near the town of Ena—almost 2.5 hours away. It was late, I was traveling alone, and the situation was stressful. Despite the language barrier, the hotel proprietress was incredibly kind and helpful. She explained that I needed to take a couple more trains to Ena, where I should be able to find a taxi for the final 30-minute ride to the hotel. I was anxious—Ena is quite remote, and I wasn’t sure what I’d do if there wasn’t a taxi available. Thankfully, there was, though the driver wasn’t familiar with the area, so I had to help navigate in the dark. The proprietress had kindly held dinner for me, even though I didn’t arrive until 7:45 PM. It was a traditional meal, where you grill small bites of chicken, beef, venison, fish, and vegetables over coals at your table. The onsen was open 24 hours, and I was grateful to unwind with a long soak after dinner. I hadn’t realized just how much was included in the booking: dinner, breakfast, access to the onsen, and even a yukata to take home—each a welcome surprise. Breakfast the next morning was a beautiful, traditional spread of pickled vegetables, poached tofu, grilled fish, rice, egg, and salad. Just steps from the inn is a trail leading to nearby castle ruins. I hiked up early in the morning before breakfast and found it peaceful and nearly empty, with only a few other hikers enjoying the serenity. The historic town is also conveniently close, and I was able to store my luggage at the hotel while exploring its charming shops and fine crafts.