If you’re planning a family trip to Japan and dreaming of a traditional hot spring stay, look no further than Yarimikan Ryokan in Gifu. As a family, we’ve stayed here over three times, and it remains one of our favorite getaways. With private baths, family-friendly meals, and even cultural experiences like mochi pounding, Yarimikan is the perfect balance of tradition and comfort.
In this guide, I’ll share what makes Yarimikan the best onsen in Gifu with kids, practical travel tips, and why it keeps us coming back again and again.
Why Yarimikan is Perfect for Families
1. Entrance & Lobby
The entrance of Yarimikan has the look of a traditional Japanese farmhouse, creating an immediate sense of nostalgia. Inside, the décor continues with a warm, Japanese-style atmosphere. In the lobby, there’s a tatami area with an irori hearth, where guests can relax. When we arrived, the irori was being used to slowly grill ayu (sweetfish) with salt for dinner. The aroma filled the air, and our daughter, who loves ayu, was delighted.
2. Indoor Baths
The indoor baths are divided into two sections: one with hot water for adults and another with milder water that even young children can enjoy. This makes it easy for families to soak together at a comfortable pace. On clear days, you can also enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt. Yari (Yarigatake) directly from the indoor bath. While the indoor baths are not private, Yarimikan has only 15 guest rooms and a total of seven open-air baths, so we’ve never once felt crowded.
3. Outdoor Baths
The highlight is the mixed open-air bath, Yarimi-no-Yu, which offers an incredible sense of openness and stunning views of Mt. Yari on sunny days. Don’t worry about the mixed setting—you can borrow a bathing gown (yugi) to feel comfortable while soaking.
In addition, Yarimikan has four private outdoor baths, all free to use. They don’t require reservations—just go when they’re available. There’s also a women-only outdoor bath for those who prefer a more private experience.
From our experience, 2 out of 3 visits, the weather was incredibly clear in the early morning, and Mt. Yari appeared in its full beauty. Mornings often have fewer clouds, so whenever we come, we make it a habit to wake up around 6 a.m. for a refreshing sunrise bath—it’s always worth it.
We’ve tried every bath here, but our child’s absolute favorite is the private bath with a slide and swing. It’s fun, unique, and something you won’t find at most ryokans. The slide is surprisingly fast, so parents should keep a close eye on small children!
4. Meals at Yarimikan (Family & Adult Highlights)
Kid-friendly plates are filled with dishes children truly enjoy. On our visit, the set included grilled fish, grilled meat with fresh veggies, seafood gratin, fried chicken, sweet shrimp & tuna sashimi, and desserts. It was rare—our daughter liked everything and finished it all without leaving a bite! For our family, the kid’s plate being such a hit is one of the reasons we call Yarimikan the best onsen in Gifu with kids.
For adults, the dinners are just as memorable. The sukiyaki dinner is outstanding, rich in flavor and beautifully presented. The ayu (sweetfish) grilled slowly over charcoal is another highlight — crisp and savory. Dinner also includes sashimi, soup, fried dishes, rice, and dessert, making it both satisfying and abundant.
5. Cultural Experiences – Mochi Pounding
One of the highlights for children is the mochi pounding (usu & kine) event. Kids get to join in and try making traditional rice cakes with the wooden mallet. It’s interactive, fun, and creates unforgettable cultural memories. After pounding, families can enjoy different flavors of mochi — the kinako mochi (soybean flour) is sweet and a big favorite with kids.
6. Comfortable Rooms
The guest rooms are a perfect blend of Japanese and Western comfort. Many are divided into a tatami room and a bedroom with beds, so families can relax together in the tatami area while parents enjoy restful sleep in Western-style beds. Some modern Japanese rooms also feature sofas and couches, creating a stylish yet cozy space to unwind after a day in the baths.
Location & Access
Yarimikan sits in Okuhida Onsen Village, near Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. Despite its mountain location, it’s easy to access:
- From Nagoya: About 2.5 hours by train and bus.
- From Takayama: Around 1 hour by bus.
The ryokan’s riverside setting adds to its charm. In winter, snow surrounds the outdoor baths, while summer offers lush greenery and mountain air.
What Makes It the Best Onsen in Gifu with Kids
- Private baths → stress-free for parents.
- Kid-friendly meals → no worries about picky eaters.
- Cultural events like mochi pounding → unique family memories.
- Scenic open-air baths with Mt. Yari views → breathtaking in every season.
- Five unique private baths (including one with a slide & swing) → fun and relaxing for kids and adults.
- Tatami + bed rooms & modern Japanese rooms with sofas → flexible comfort for families.
- Warm, repeat-worthy hospitality → we’ve returned three times already!
- Bring pajamas if you’re not used to yukata: Yukata can come loose easily, so pajamas are more comfortable for both kids and adults.
Travel Tips
- Book early: Yarimikan is popular, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Bring swimsuits for kids: Some private baths allow flexibility for young children.
- Stay at least 2 nights: Gives time to enjoy the baths, meals, and explore nearby Takayama.
- Visit in winter: The outdoor baths surrounded by snow are magical for both kids and adults.
- Don’t miss autumn: The foliage season offers incredible mountain views from the baths.
Related Links
- 👉 Yarimikan Official Site — Check room plans, availability, and detailed onsen info directly from the ryokan.
- 👉 Sugishima Ryokan (Gujo Hachiman) — A hidden hot spring stay in the charming castle town of Gujo Hachiman.
- 👉 Fujiya Ryokan (near Shirakawa-go) — A traditional ryokan with relaxing baths, just a short drive from the UNESCO village.
- 👉 11 Best Onsen Stays in Japan — Discover nationwide hot spring escapes, from hidden gems to family-friendly ryokan.
- 👉 7-Day Itinerary: Aichi, Gifu & Mie — Follow our week-long journey combining hot spring stays, local food, and hidden gems across Central Japan.
Final Thoughts
After staying at Yarimikan more than three times, I can confidently say it’s the best onsen in Gifu with kids. Whether it’s soaking in private baths, enjoying kid-friendly kaiseki, laughing together during mochi pounding, sliding and swinging in the unique outdoor bath, or relaxing in tatami and modern Japanese rooms with sofas, this ryokan combines Japanese tradition with true family comfort.
If you’re looking for a memorable ryokan experience in Japan, Yarimikan deserves a spot at the top of your list.
FAQ about Yarimikan – Best Onsen in Gifu with kids
Q1. Is Yarimikan suitable for families with young kids?
Yes! My daughter’s Yarimikan debut was at age 4, and she absolutely loved it. She enjoyed the kid’s plate at dinner, the hands-on mochi pounding, and the private outdoor bath with a swing—reasons why Yarimikan is often called the best onsen in Gifu for families.
Q2. How do I book the private open-air baths?
They’re free and first-come, first-served. No reservation is needed—just check if they’re open and step in. It’s one of the highlights that makes Yarimikan stand out among the best onsen in Gifu.
Q3. Which season is the best to visit Yarimikan?
Each season has its own charm: snow-covered baths in winter, clear Mt. Yari views in spring, lush greenery in summer, and stunning foliage in autumn. No matter the season, it’s a memorable stay at the best onsen in Gifu.
Q4. How many times have you stayed?
We’ve stayed three times and keep returning because of the family-friendly atmosphere, the variety of baths, and the mochi pounding experience. That’s why Yarimikan has become our go-to choice for the best onsen in Gifu.
Q5. How do I get there from Nagoya or Takayama?
From Nagoya, take train + bus in about 2.5 hours. From Takayama, a bus ride takes about 1 hour. Easy access is another reason Yarimikan is known as one of the best onsen in Gifu.
