Spa Hotel Alpina Hida Takayama

Loved it. We had stayed in Takayama before, at a different hotel, and when we walked past the Apina, I made a note to stay there next time! It is quite central, so it is possible to shop at the daily market or in the beautiful old town area and keep nipping back with your treasures! The staff were absolutely fantastic. I'm sorry I didn't get the name of the receptionist when we arrived, but she was absolutely great and (bonus) spoke excellent English, so I didn't need to use my rusty Japanese too much. Due to a signal failure, we had to take a completely different route to get to Takayama and consequently were quite late, but everything was fine. The onsen was still open, so we could go up to the top floor and relax. The view from the bath really is as spectacular as it looks, but of course you can't view the town until you stand up - otherwise, everyone in Takayama would have a view of you as well. So the lower part of the window is frosted. Huge and comfortable indoor bath, plus a superb outdoor one. Next time, I will try to get up early and have a morning bath as well, but the bed was too comfy for that. There was an option to select a different pillow in reception, which I didn't spot until we were leaving, despite it being very obvious. Another time, I will probably try a different one. Breakfast was really excellent and delicious. We stayed for 2 nights but next time we will stay much longer. We have still only seen a fraction of Takayama.

This is a nice new building, well designed, neat and tidy and well maintained. Everything is clean, it is close to the train station and around the corner from Takayama old town section. We arrived early and the hotel was able to store our bags on site. Takayama had a thick layer of snow when we were there in February, and the hotel was snug and warm inside. They have umbrellas at the door for guests to use, which kept us dry outside while it snowed. They do a great breakfast buffet, and there is an onsen on one of the higher floors.

Excellent location and relatively spacious room with a good view to the city and mountains. Staff is very attentive and friendly. Clean as you’d expect for Japan.

Location, right near takayama station. Also good short distance to the main old town. Staff very friendly and breakfast room also good

The location was fantastic. Walking distance to transport, attractions and eating. Staff was friendly and helpful. We had breakfast included and that was also very nice.