Hida Furukawa, located just an hour from popular spots like Hida Takayama and Shirakawa-go Gassho-style Village, offers a peaceful mix of history and nature. The town is defined by the Seto River, which flows through its center, lined with traditional white-walled storehouses. Every season brings its own charm, from the fresh greenery of spring to the snowy streets in winter.

A 7-minute walk from Hida-Furukawa Station brings you to Yatsusankan, a historic inn that’s been welcoming guests for about 180 years. The property features three distinct buildings, each reflecting a different era. Of them, the Shogetsu Tower, built in 1905, is even designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property.

Entering through the grand gate, you’ll find yourself in a calm and inviting atmosphere. The design, including a sunlit atrium lobby and a long, narrow tatami corridor, has been preserved since the building's original construction. Take your time exploring the maze-like layout, relax in the lobby or rest area, and enjoy the beauty of traditional Japanese wooden architecture.

Yatsusankan has adapted to the times while preserving its traditions, with three generations of proprietresses caring for the inn. Ikeda Kazumi, the 7th-generation head proprietress, is joined by her daughter Ikeda Rikako (8th generation) and granddaughter Ikeda Kanoko (9th generation), who has begun helping out in recent years. Kanoko says, "I want to protect this inn with my mother, grandmother, and the whole family."

The spirit of omotenashi (hospitality) cherished by the proprietresses is reflected in the antique art displayed throughout the inn, from the entrance to various corners of the building. These pieces have been carefully passed down at Yatsusankan for generations. The 7th-generation proprietress thoughtfully curates the exhibits each month, choosing themes to let guests experience the beauty of Japan’s changing seasons and atmosphere.

Kanoko, the 9th-generation proprietress, now manages the inn’s decorations, guided by the head proprietress. In this gallery-like setting, you’ll experience the history and traditions of Hida through the changing seasons, engaging all your senses.

Yatsusankan has 18 rooms, each with its own unique atmosphere. This plan offers a stay in one of four rooms, each with its own bath and carefully renovated to maintain the charm of the past while ensuring modern comfort. Spacious beds provide a restful retreat after a day of travel, and many rooms feature Hida-made chairs. (Room selections may vary in price, so feel free to contact us for more details.)

Guests also have access to the large public bath, filled with water from Nagareha Onsen, located a 20-minute drive away. The open-air bath overlooks a Japanese garden so you can warm up and relax while enjoying the seasonal views. For those seeking privacy, private baths and the in-room bath are also available.

Both breakfast and dinner are served in private rooms. “Hida offers rich ingredients year-round,” the 8th-generation proprietress shares. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner with local specialties like Hida beef and river fish, followed by a traditional breakfast with freshly cooked rice and local dishes. Recharge with the delicious flavors of Hida.

On the second day, after checking out, take a short 5-minute walk to Watanabe Sake Brewery, which has been crafting sake for over 150 years. With a team of 15 dedicated brewers, they focus on tradition and handmade techniques to produce small batches of limited edition sake.

Begin your tour with an introduction to the brewery's history, then explore the sake-making process, guided by an expert who will make it easy to understand and enjoyable.

As you enter the brewery, the sweet aroma of sake rice fills the air. Brewing typically takes place from September to June, and if you visit during this period, you can observe the brewing process firsthand. Depending on the timing, you might even hear directly from the brewers. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the time-honored tradition of sake brewing, recently recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2024.

After the tour, it’s time for the much-awaited tasting. The venue is the annex on the premises which is usually closed to the public. A room in a renovated 100-year-old building will be specially prepared for you, where you’ll sample 4 to 5 different types of sake, each with its own unique characteristics. From standard products to seasonal and premium options, the selection varies depending on the experience date. Choose your favorite from the beautiful sake vessels collected by the president and enjoy the sake poured for you.

Locally made daikon pickled in soy sauce will be served alongside the sake (contents subject to change). Hida is known for its soy sauce and miso, and many of the region’s sakes, often on the sweeter side, pair perfectly with these flavors. Deepen your understanding of Japanese sake and food culture as you savor each sip. For non-drinkers, non-alcoholic sweet sake brewed by Watanabe Sake Brewery will also be available.

Participants can take home an original sake cup as a souvenir, and sake is also available for purchase at the on-site shop. Whether you choose your favorite brand from the tasting or decide to try something new, it’s a great opportunity to explore. Feel free to ask for recommendations if you're unsure about which sake to pick. Relive the memories of your trip and enjoy the fine sake of Hida at home.

This experience lets you indulge in local delicacies and fine sake, all while staying at a long-established inn in Hida Furukawa. Experience the traditions passed down through generations and connect with the majestic nature of the region for a truly enriching stay.