Very well kept considering the age of the property. It is also perfectly adorned with just the right amount of decorations. The river running through beside the property was a bonus. Our room was right next to it. It was also a short walking distance to the village. The staff, all family members of the owner, were so wonderful and accommodating. The owner also gave a tour of the village all the way up to the observation deck were you see the entire Shirakawago village. We were sad to leave.

There is nothing to dislike about this place. If I were to be picky, it would have to be the bed. The mattress is not thick enough for US taste but I didn’t mind it since it was a 1 night stay. Having stayed here though, I wished we stayed for 1-2 more nights.

Amazing place. Genuinely welcoming staff that clearly takes pride in their hospitality. Dinner and breakfast was extremely good. Staff is super friendly, you can tell it's a lovely family and they do their best to make you feel comfortable. Communication in English was no problem at all. Private Onsen was super good. All the utilities are spotless clean. The building is 140+ years old but looks like it went through a thorough renovation and it's the perfect mix between contemporary/minimalistic and traditional. We went with the choice of 5 alcoholic drinks that match the 8-9 course dishes and it was perfect (actually it was probably 6-7 drinks accompanying 10 dishes, but this may be a special occasion). We've had the best sake we ever tasted (which was local) along with other tasty drinks (their own homemade yuzu wine was extremely good!) We stayed in the "Japan" room, which was the "traditional" one, and it was cozy and warm. We even had our own little tea party in the small balcony that has the view of the river and the pond with Koi fish. This was our second time in Japan but Shiroyamakan would be the biggest reason we would consider travelling to Japan all the way from the UK for a third time! (This time maybe in winter)

This is a ryokan run by family members. Upon arrival, the daughter, who speaks excellent English gave us an orientation of the place. This is our families' second time staying here. My husband and daughter had a wonderful experience last year, so I came with my other children this July. We had the room with river view on the second floor. This room has its' private toilet next door. There is a big wash basin in the room. The room is huge by Japanese hotel standard. The owner/father gave a tour around the town in his van at about 3pm. He is so friendly and drove us to the top of the observatory for a beautiful view of the village. The onsen is so comfortable with a view of the river/garden , we went before dinner, did not have to wait. Dinner and breakfast are meat/fish/vegetables native to the area, the son, who is also the chef hunts and gathers most of the food. Everything was delicious. The village becomes quiet after tourist leaves around 4pm. We got up early the next day, I had a morning walk and my son had a run, came back, showered, soaked in the onsen one last time, and breakfast was ready. Thank you for the wonderful time in Shiragawa Go!

Nothing

An absolutely stunning ryokan that is run by a phenomenal family. The ryokan is perfectly situated ( a 1-2 minute walk from the central bus station). The ambiance is quiet, peaceful and calm, and the bathing facilities are clean and modern, with top notch soaps/shampoos/conditioners. There was a breathtaking view of the river and gardens from our window. The meals were so delicious and unique. With locally foraged and hunted foods that were exquisitely presented, I felt like I was eating at Noma. This is a family-owned business and operation, and the Matsufuru family is incredibly gracious and kind. Their generous hospitality was felt the moment we stepped into Shiroyamakan. The tour of Shirakawa-go that Mr. Matsufuru gave at the the beginning of our stay was a highlight of our entire trip to Japan and the warmth and joy that he exudes is truly amazing. Thank you for a wonderful experience and stay!

Everything about our stay was perfect! If you’re reading reviews debating on if you should stay here, the answer is yes! If you think there’s no way it can be as good as these reviews, trust me when I say, it is better. Facilities: We stayed one night in a double room and it was so great! Beautiful views of the pound and river from our very serene room. The private onsens were wonderful, and because there are such few rooms, we never had an issue finding at least one of the two onsens free when we wanted them. Hospitality: We corresponded before we got there, so they could know when to expect us. When we got there, our bags were quickly taken to our room, while we were walked through the inn with explanations on meals and facilities. At 2:30ish we joined the father (the whole place is family run) for a tour of the town. It quickly becomes apparent how much the town respects and loves this family as we were given access to closed off areas. He also loves to take pictures and would offer to take our pictures every time we saw him. This was the best hospitality we had all trip as it was done in such a familial way and not overly formal. Food: The food was so good. Some of the dishes felt like fine dining dishes well others felt like home cooking, but all were delicious and beautifully presented! There’s always the option for more rice if you’re still hungry! My partner chose the alcohol pairing with dinner and enjoyed it thoroughly. 10/10 would go back in a heart beat! Also being in Shirakawago when the crowds aren’t there is so special. We went walking early in the morning, and it was so peaceful.

Nothing! We didn’t realize that we pay for everything at the end of the stay, so we did sit at the table at dinner for a while waiting to pay for our drinks before realizing we didn’t need to.

The hotel is managed by a family that has owned the place for 140 years, and we can feel the care they put into the place in everything they do. We stayed in the traditional bedroom with futons, and go struck by the beauty of the room, overlooking the stream, the pond and beautiful trees. The onsen, the rooms, the complementary kimonos - everything is of a high quality and made to provide a strong sense of calm, making it a memorable stay. The food was Michelin guide level - a 9 course meal for dinner, a 6 plate breakfast, all with local ingredients. They went above and beyond to cater to our dietary requirements (vegan and Gluten Free) which was truly appreciated. Finally, the family shares their love for the village - the father organises a short tour of the village and takes guests to the observatory, whilst providing history and tips on the village. Overall, the stay felt special, a true experience rather than just an hotel, and we can only recommend this incredible establishment.

Shiroyamakan was a highlight of our trip to Shirakawa-go. Although not an official gassho-style house, this 140-year-old inn is nestled within the UNESCO village and blends beautifully into its surroundings. The family-run ryokan operates like a well-oiled machine, yet every interaction felt warm and personal. From the included village tour to the exquisitely prepared kaiseki dinner and breakfast, everything was carried out with impressive attention to detail. The food was exceptional, with a spot-on alcohol pairing during dinner. The two private onsens were a lovely touch, offering a relaxing and serene experience. We especially appreciated the blend of modern comfort with traditional Japanese aesthetics—tatami mats, futon sleeping with rice pillows, and calming views of the garden and pond. Traditional yukata were provided, which we wore comfortably around the house. A truly special stay that honours both tradition and hospitality.

Nothing.

We had a wonderful stay at Shiroyamakan. The 4th-5th generation of this family to run the inn are lovely and you can tell that they have a lot of pride and passion for their work and culture. The food was fantastic with mainly homemade and local resources. We especially appreciated the tour by car from the father on the first day to get some pointers for our own exploration. He also helps with taking photos at the observation deck and is all in all a fun and lovely man. Another plus is that in the morning you get a head start to see Shirakawago before most of the tourist busses arrive. Highly recommend staying here on your visit to Shirakawago, it has been our top experience in Japan so far.

The family that runs the place is the most amazing little local family. They forage/hunt for the meals themselves, they do everything for the guests. It is also their family home. I am an architect, and what the family did with the design of the place exceeded expectations! The rooms are all top quality, overlooking the river or the gardens. The bath (onsen) is private and perfect for families/couples/small groups! Again, absolutely beautiful. They care so much, and you can tell.

The only thing was the drinks at dinner were not included and they were quite expensive. Too bad a minimum standard wasn’t included in the high cost of the room.

The ryokan is steeped in history, now run by the fourth generation of the family. The hosts are exceptionally attentive, making you feel like a truly valued guest. Both dinner and breakfast are prepared with local ingredients, offering an authentic taste of regional cuisine. The location is easy to find, situated near the crossroads leading to the village. A small guided tour by the host adds a personal touch and makes the experience even more special.

The house is old, so it’s not very well insulated, and it can get chilly at night. The host provided an electric heater, which keeps the bedroom warm and comfortable, but the bathroom and other areas still feel a bit cold and less cozy.