What a sweet antique ryokan run by the loveliest people! We had here the best dinners in our whole trip!!! I cannot explain enough how delicious and exceptional the dinners were. Everyone is sweet and kind, and language doesn't feel like a barrier. We were welcomed with ceremonial tea and sweets. Location is perfect, right at the centre of everything, a 7 minute walk to the old city, 1 minute walk to the bridge with beautiful views, and there are plenty of eateries and cafes around. It was the only stay during our trip where we had shared bathrooms and toilet, but in the end we didn't mind it at all. The authentic experience of the onsen is brilliant, super relaxing. The place feels a bit like a live museum, or your Japanese grandma's house, so it's fun to look around. They also have a library of books to swap / leave. The owners helped us with finding things to do at Takayama. Honestly I couldn't recommend it enough, would definitely return!

Be prepared for your bed to be folded up whilst you eat your breakfast! We didn't mind much, just wished we had been notified in advance :) There isn't much choice for the times of dinner and breakfast, and there is a curfew - but these are things that it makes sense to prepare for when you stay at a traditional inn.

Wow - this is really staying in someone’s home. It’s all a little musty and “antique” but so comfortable and the food was delicious. The bath is private which was perfect for our family with young kids. Breakfast is amazing (and both Japanese and western are available). The owners provided sweet small yukata for our girls and snuck in every morning to leave a fresh tea set. You can’t beat the location right along the river and near countless shops and restaurants. Also a very short walk up the hill to the walking path and temples. Key for July - the in-room AC works great! Really wonderful.

The shared bathroom situation could be a headache if it’s crowded - the only showers are attached to the two onsen, which are locked when someone is using them - but we didn’t have any issues.

It was everything that we hoped a traditional ryokan would be. We loved the decor, every space was adorned with artwork and prints, and quirky little objects. Our tatami room had a low table where hot water to make fresh green tea would magically appear. Sharing facilities were spotless and we loved the hot bath and shower room, which you could take it in turn with the other guests to use. Kimonos and slippers were provided. We also loved the soothing sound of the fast streaming river. We opted for the Japanese breakfast, which was a feast and ritual in itself, highlight grilling pieces of tofu over a hot coal at the table. The proprietors were super friendly and made us feel very welcome 😁

Everything! The owners are so sweet! They gave us matcha tea when we arrived! The ryokan is stunning! Amazing decoration in every single place! We love the onsen! Everything Is extra clean and tidy! I told one of the owner (lady) it was really cold outside and when we get back to the room was blankets and the kettle ready to drink our tea! (In the room was before ready tea pot and cups). I forgot my necklace in the room and the owners send me a messenge but I was already in Tokyo for the next day take flight to get back home. They were amazing and send to me the necklace to Australia !

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Beautiful Ryokan right on the river with a stunning view, the property is close to all the sights of Takayama and our room overlooked the river to the morning market. Most attractions were walkable from this location and was about 15 minute walk to the train station. The owners were amazing. Despite speaking little English they were warm and welcoming to us, providing green tea on arrival. The breakfast had option for Japanese and continental, which contained many plates and enough to fill you to start your day as we ate in the downstairs area. Definitely ensure you are ready and on time to your breakfast or dinner as they will ask what time you would like to be fed. For an authentic Japanese experience, this is a must-stay and was a great change from the hotels for the experience. The rooms were also comfortable and very charming with lots of antiques around the property, a balcony and garden to admire the views. The public bathroom was beautiful and clean, the water was a bit hot for me so I couldn’t stay in for too long but others would enjoy the temperature

A charming retreat close to tourist attractions in the town of Takayama. We stayed here in 2024, and came back again in 2025. It was the highlight of both trips to Japan. The beds are very comfortable and warm in the winter. They provide large Yakuta robes if you are plus sized. There are 2 onsens downstairs which are a welcome treat after walking around in the cold all day. You can use them privately, and usually there is little to no wait. The rooms are simple but very comfortable. When you arrive to check in the family will greet you with matcha and snacks. They bring you an urn of hot water and treats for afternoon tea each day. The breakfast is exceptional and different every day. On our second trip we were lucky enough to have the river view room with a private toilet, and they hosted us for breakfast in their main dining room, otherwise they bring breakfast to your room. If you’re questioning the price, it is absolutely worth it for the experience. I cannot describe how wonderful and cosy this place is. I hope you try it for yourself!

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A unique and memorable stay in a traditional inn. We were made to feel very welcome and the staff were lovely and friendly. The dinner and breakfast were a highlight as it was brilliant to try some home cooked Japanese food of high standard, clearly made with very much care. The decor is antique and authentic, part of the charm of this place. We enjoyed the views of the river from our room and the excellent location - 15 minutes walk from the train station and right by the main tourist area. The traditional floor mattress beds were pretty comfy and we enjoyed making use of the private traditional baths on site. Thank you very much for a wonderful stay!

The property was beautiful and quiet, full of antiques and nicely decorated. The room was big and the Japanese-style beds were comfortable. The owners were kind and they offered continental breakfast. (You should try kaiseki breakfast if it’s your first time at a ryokan, but it was our third kaiseki meal in a week and it was nice to find one continental breakfast).

Our room was a little bit smelly (maybe from the kitchen down the stairs). The staff came in to our room unannounced twice, and we were inside. They opened the door and saw us there. We could have been changing our clothes or something. I guess it is something cultural, but still felt weird and uncomfortable.

We have traveled to so many countries and stayed at so many homestays, hotels, bed and breakfast - you name it. This place, however, was one of the best - if not THE BEST - place we have ever stayed at - WORLDWIDE! such a friendly atmosphere there. The food is simply AMAZING!! the views are mind-blowing. The hosts are extremely friendly and go above and beyond to make your stay the best ever and as authentic as it can get. This is exactly what we had wished for during our Japan trip. It was simply great and madr our trip to Japan. The elderly man, his wife and their son as well as the whole staff was exceptional. ARIGATO! THANK YOU SO MUCH! PS: the onsen with views to the river (and the second one as well) is simply true bliss. Great!!!!!

We spent 5 days staying at Sumiyoshi Ryokan. What an amazing experience! If you are looking for an authentic Japanese experience this is it. The entire family run the Ryokan, and they’re the most kind, respectful, gracious people you could ever hope to meet. They were constantly doing small things for us to make us feel special. Their home is so authentic and you’ll get to experience the real Japan. The Japanese breakfasts were different every day (you can have continental as well), and you are hosted in a private room. When you get back, the tatami mat beds will have been folded away and your room will be transformed with comfortable Japanese seats. The setting is perfect just across the river from the morning markets, and walking distance to lots of restaurants. Don’t miss out…..stay at this delightful Ryokan with hosts who will wrap you in a warm blanket!

Nothing! It was perfect and a very special experience.