I stayed 3d2n at Takayama Ouan Hotel last spring. It was just few days before the festival.
RM1,400 for 2 included bf & dinner which served Hida beef. Private onsen + free flow of Yakult. Plus a bonus ramen meal at 10pm.

It located walking distance from Takayama station, where I can easily book for the next day bus ride to Shirakawa-Go day trip using my Hakuriku Pass.
As for me, I really like Takayama. Very relaxing and don't miss the A5 Hida Beef at Maruaki. (2 x Lunch Set at 5K Yen). Yum...

Do note, Sakura still not bloom before the spring festival in Takayama.
But after I checked out on the 3rd day, I went Toyama for a day trip. The Sakura there were 'fantastic' along the river. Even nicer than the famous Kyoto which are full of tourist.
Make sure you check the train schedule before hands from Takayama to Toyama. Cheers

This post has been edited by artman: Jan 3 2018, 11:30 AM

I took the same VN flight time in Dec 17. The only q needed is through carry-on bag scanner (your shoes too).
Do not worry, 2-3 hours manageable. Still have time for burger or a smoke...

My experience reaching Osaka at 6.40am. Need to wait HIS counter open at 8:30am for sim card or ticket collection ordered from Klook.
Took a bus (200yen) to Rinku premium outlet, snack shop at Supercenter Trial to kill time before 3pm Airbnb check-in. Feels sleepy since night flight.

This post has been edited by artman: Jan 4 2018, 10:54 PM