Tabino Hotel Hida - Takayama

The staff and service were great. There’s a free shuttle bus to and from Takayama station several times a day, and Family Mart is right across from the hotel, which is convenient. Rooms were a little small, but had enough space for two people. Breakfast was good, though I would have liked a few more choices. From 5 to 7 PM each evening, guests can have an alcoholic drink of their choice for free. Between 8 and 9 PM, there’s a small bowl of ramen or ice cream, also free. Worth the price and a recommended stay if you’re visiting Shirakawa or Takayama.

The rooms are so small that there isn’t enough space for two suitcases with the furniture in place. You end up paying for a premium hotel where you can’t even open your suitcase. Not good. It’s also too far from the center to walk. We had a car, so that wasn’t an issue, but anyone using public transport needs the infrequent shuttle. There are good things here in principle: the Japanese breakfast is good, the baths are excellent, and the evening ramen and drink service is nice.

Mr Kawabe eventually found me another room, and I was able to get some sleep. The first one, room 104, had such a strong wet-dog smell that I couldn't clear it, and it was making me wheeze and giving me slight chest pain. I asked for an air purifier, but there wasn't one, and when I requested a room change around 12:30am, I was told none were available. Then around 1:30am Mr Kawabe knocked and said he'd prepared a room for me. The new room had no bad smell. I really appreciate his help, and feel it may have spared me further health trouble. The onsen was great, and the evening ramen or ice cream snack was a nice touch. I was staying as part of a shirakawago package with Willer bus. I wish I could rate it higher, but a clean, safe place to sleep is my top priority in a hotel. That room shouldn't be booked until they sort out the odor.

The staff were warm and always ready to help, and our room had enough space for us. We really enjoyed staying here. They offer a shuttle into the city, plus a parking discount there, just remember to ask for the ticket before you leave the hotel. There was also free beer and a snack in the afternoon.