Hakusanso

Hakusanso is a peaceful hot spring inn located in the picturesque Shirakawa region of Gifu, Japan. Situated at 87 Hirase, Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu 501-5507, the hotel is surrounded by a rich cultural and natural landscape that includes historical sites and stunning outdoor attractions. A five-minute walk from the Hirase Hot Spring bus stop, it provides easy access to the famed Former Toyama House Museum, an impressive Gassho-style house. The serene Hakusan National Park, located just 2 km away, is a haven for nature lovers, offering hiking trails and breathtaking views. The hotel's distinctive design, featuring a steeply-sloped thatched roof, captures the essence of traditional Japanese architecture while offering modern comforts for its guests.
Inside, Hakusanso offers four tranquil rooms with tatami floors and futons, creating a traditional yet comfortable atmosphere. Each room is furnished with short-legged tables and cushions, inviting guests to unwind and embrace the peaceful surroundings. The rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, and guests share access to the bathrooms, which are kept clean and comfortable.
Hakusanso’s on-site amenities include a natural onsen, which provides a soothing and relaxing geothermal hot spring experience. The communal bathhouse features an indoor hot tub, where guests can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the natural waters. For those who prefer the outdoors, the inn also offers an outdoor foot bath, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh air while soaking their feet in the mineral-rich water. The dining room, complete with a cozy wood-burning stove and an in-ground charcoal grill, offers a warm and inviting space to enjoy traditional meals, which often feature local ingredients and regional specialties.
The hotel’s location provides ample opportunities for guests to explore the surrounding area, with various historical and cultural sights nearby. Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional Gassho-style farmhouses, is just 15 minutes away. Mount Haku, a sacred mountain with excellent hiking and climbing options, is a 2-hour 55-minute drive from the hotel.
In terms of transportation, Hakusanso is well-connected, with Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport about a 3-hour taxi ride away. Toyama Airport is roughly 1 hour and 28 minutes by taxi, and Komatsu Airport is 1 hour and 45 minutes away. Public transit options are also available for guests who prefer a more eco-friendly journey.
Hakusanso is committed to the safety and well-being of its guests, offering enhanced cleaning protocols and no-contact check-in and check-out procedures. The tranquil environment, combined with the therapeutic properties of the onsen, makes this a perfect destination for guests seeking a relaxing getaway in one of Japan’s most beautiful regions.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural history of Shirakawa and the surrounding areas, Hakusanso provides an ideal base for exploration, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Whether you are soaking in the natural hot spring, exploring nearby historical sites, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the inn, Hakusanso promises an unforgettable experience in Japan’s countryside.