Established since the Taisho Era, Sumiyoshi Ryokan would be over a hundred years old by now, or at least about to turn 100. Despite its age, the ryokan has a well-preserved traditional aesthetic, offering well-furnished tatami rooms with lovely views of the Miyagawa River. Its sturdy structure could perhaps be attributed to the craftsmanship of master carpenters, as the region was known for its quality of woodworking and timber since feudal times.

Design and Architecture

Sumiyoshi Ryokan maintains a mostly traditional design for its architecture and interior decor, creating a warm and homey atmosphere that's reminiscent of visiting one's beloved grandparents. All guestrooms come in the sukiya-zukuri style, emphasizing open spaces with tatami flooring, as well as a tokonoma for decorative purposes. Some guests may prefer a more minimalist approach, but Sumiyoshi Ryokan's accommodations instead maximize the space available to ensure both comfort and convenience. Those who instead love being surrounded by antiques and curios will enjoy hanging out in the lobby as it is filled with all sorts of incredible items, including full suits of samurai armor. As for the inn's other facilities and amenities, guests should take advantage of the lovely garden from where they can relax and admire the Miyagawa River. There's also the shared bath, which can be booked as a family bath for washing up together after a day out exploring Takayama or the Hida Mountains.

Traditional Japanese inns such as Sumiyoshi Ryokan often serve their finest cuisine as a kaiseki course. In this case, their set includes a bowl of special Hida beef sukiyaki served alongside seasonal ingredients and regional delicacies. Their breakfast set is washoku style, meaning traditional Japanese cuisine, with a diverse selection of items that are both flavorful and energizing.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

The Hida Mountains are a paradise for cultural pursuits as well as outdoor adventures, so be sure to make the most of your trip. First off, see if you can catch one of the two Takayama Matsuri during your trip; the Spring Festival is held every April and hosted by the Hie Shrine, while the Autumn Festival is hosted by the Hachiman Shrine. If you arrive a bit early for the festivities, you can pick up some knowledge about the Takaya Matsuri's history and customs at the Matsu no Mori Museum. You can also while away your time exploring the historic streets of Takayama's Old Townscape and checking out the local shops there. For more sightseeing opportunities, head over to the Hida no Sato Folk Village and explore the meticulously preserved old architecture of Japan's minka folk houses.

Other Celebrations

Although a historic ryokan, Sumiyoshi may not have adequate space if you're planning a private party to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. In this case, you should instead ask the hosts if they can refer or recommend a local establishment as a venue. This would save the inn from potential rowdiness while still being able to support local businesses and industries during your visit.