Beppu Ryokan - Beppu Showaen
If you’re planning to visit the glorious little city of Beppu, then you would already know that it’s renowned far and wide across Japan as one of the best hot spring resorts in the country.
It’s a relatively small yet dynamic region that boasts a whopping eight different hot springs throughout, meaning you can pick and choose to your heart’s content how to build the ultimate relaxing itinerary in Beppu.
Each hot spring offers public bathing options as well as a number of wonderfully rustic ryokan with hot spring facilities, so whether you want to stay right onsite or pop in for a day visit, the choice is yours.
We, however, do recommend booking a ryokan stay whilst there. When contemplating where to stay, one must take in the unique features of a region to ensure they make the most of their visit, and, to be honest, a visit to Beppu without staying in a ryokan is like going camping but sleeping in your car.
Sure, it’s probably the most cost effective method, but the true experience is, so to say, lacking. Below we’ve curated 11 of the most beautiful traditional Japanese inns in Beppu for you to peruse and hopefully book for your visit.
Discover in the list below our selection of the top Ryokans in Beppu for an unforgettable traditional stay:
Kannawaen is everything you could want in a rustic traditional Japanese inn accommodation without skimping on the creature comforts expected of a 4-star facility. The best selling feature of this property is the fact that it’s literally a 100m walk from the Hells of Beppu – one of, if not the, most popular tourist attractions in Beppu.
This alone means that you’ll save plenty of time and money traveling to and from, and there are quite a few activities to do and things to see there as well.
The overall look and feel of this ryokan will transport you back in time and make you feel wonderfully nostalgic, however, the flat-screen TV, private bathrooms for every room, and generous continental breakfast will keep you grounded. The breathtaking mountain views offered in certain rooms are not too shabby either!
Guest Tips: The public bath at Kannawaen is only offered to hotel guests, so rest assured you will have privacy, however, please note that every room also includes a private hot spring. If you have any food allergies, make sure you mention it during your booking – they do cater for it.
Book It Now: Kannawaen Ryokan
If you’re looking for an experience like being welcomed into someone’s home, then this might be an excellent choice for you. Yamada Bessou is an incredibly well-presented rustic traditional Japanese inn that immediately makes you feel comfortable and relaxed.
The hosts ensure that it is always maintained to the utmost professional standards, but it’s really the little things that stand out, from the distinct Japanese architecture throughout, to the gorgeous Japanese ceramics used for meals.
The ryokan is located in a quiet location, however it’s also only a 10-minute walk away from Beppu station, and there is free bicycle rental as well. To spoil its guests even more, you can book a massage treatment at any time, and also make use of their public indoor hot spring (which is open 24-7), or book their outdoor hot spring bath for private use.
Book It Now: Yamada Bessou Ryokan
This architecturally stunning ryokan is for those who are after the premium comfort factor. Located only a 15-minute drive from JR Beppu Station, you’d be forgiven if you somehow forgot and believed that that you’re lost somewhere deep and high up in the mountains with nothing but you and nature for miles and miles.
Honestly, you will look and feel like a millionaire staying at this ryokan.
Everything – from the incredibly high ceilings to the expansive balcony views to the gorgeous wooden decking to lifestyle magazine-like furnishing – just screams ‘sleek’.
The guest rooms here offer private semi-open air baths that boast views of the sea or the mountains, and there is also a larger, incredibly breathtaking communal bath that is available from 7:00am to 10:00am and from 3:00pm to 11:00pm.
Guest Tips: Whilst this place is a popular place for couples and possibly small groups, it is not recommended for families with children. If you’re a social media addict, this place offers plenty of opportunities for incredible photos to be taken. It is recommended that you hire a car due to the location of the property.
Book It Now: Terrace Midoubaru
Clean, comfortable, well-presented – Kappo Ryokan Kannawa Bettei is a hot spring that will cater to the masses. With the unique low-ceiling layout, its charm resonates off every timber wall, shoji sliding door, and cobblestone footpath. It’s located in an area that exudes peace and tranquility – you’ll feel at one with nature here.
There are also options for those who prefer to sleep on western bedding configurations instead, however, all rooms provide spacious sleeping and lounging areas as well as a private hot spring bath. For an even more special experience, there is a larger hot spring bath which can be reserved at the front desk for private use.
Guest Tips: The communal public bath is open from 3:00pm until 12:00am. If you don’t have your own rental car, this is a good option as it’s within walking distance to the bus stop to get to various attractions as well as the Hells of Beppu.
Book It Now: Kappo Ryokan Kannawa Bettei
For a super modern Japanese inn experience, Hana Beppu, located in the city centre, is a great option. For starters, its interior is reminiscent of the cool and clean minimalistic design of Muji – no traditional dark timber here!
Rather than going for a super nostalgic look and feel, here, you’ll find comfort in knowing that all facilities and features of the ryokan are of premium quality and also make for great photo opportunities.
The number one reason why people choose this place, however, is definitely because of its superb location. Situated amongst Beppu Park, Beppu Tower, B-Con Plaza and Takegawara Onsen, amongst many other attractions, this is a great option for those who prefer convenience over a full-on experience.
Guest Tips: If you’re looking for a kid-friendly accommodation option, Hana Beppu is a great affordable choice.
Book It Now: Hana Beppu Ryokan
Ryotei Matsubaya is like a ryokan straight out of an anime. Stunning wallpaper, lush Japanese quilt covers, authentic classic Japanese decor, and stunning ambient lighting are what sets this ryokan apart from many others. Whilst it’s got quite a historical look and feel, there is nothing that feels outdated about this accommodation.
There are various natural hot spring baths onsite (some available for private reservations), various Japanese and Western-style rooms to choose from, car rental onsite, and even massage options available to be booked at the reception if you’d like.
It is recommended that you have a rental vehicle if you want to stay here; it is a 7-minute drive from JR Beppu Station, a 15-minute drive from Beppu Ropeway Station, and 15-minute drive from Jigoku-Meguri Hot Springs.
Book It Now: Ryotei Matsubaya Ryokan
This quaint Ryokan is the way to go if you’re after a no-frills, down-to-earth traditional Japanese inn experience that won’t break the bank but will still effortlessly transport you back to historic Japan.
It makes up for its relatively small size by offering the utmost attention by staff members, consistent high quality Japanese cuisine, gorgeous private onsen in guest rooms, and wonderfully ambient atmosphere.
This accommodation is a bit further away than many others, but it’s a small price to pay for the ultimate relaxation getaway amongst the charming leafy greens and fresh air that you should only really get to experience in Japan’s countryside.
Guest Tips: Make sure you attend the daily breakfast, it’s 10/10!
Book It Now: Beppu Nagomitsuki Ryokan
Beppu Showaen is considered one of the top picks in the entirety of Beppu, and for good reason. Its beauty goes above and beyond what is expected of a traditional Japanese inn, with multiple, limitless photo opportunities amongst its garden and cobblestone trails.
There are also hot spring onsens available in each guest room as well as massage services available (to be booked with the front desk).
The interior is decked out to be reminiscent of historic Japan, with tamami flooring, traditional futon bedding configuration, low tables and seating, and Shoji sliding doors. What’s special about the meals here is that they’re served right in the guest rooms by a ‘Nakai’ (personal attendant) – what an experience!
Guest Tips: If you go for a walk around during the day, you might get to witness monkeys hopping from roof to roof! If you have time, go for a stroll and appreciate the time and effort placed into creating the Zen gardens of this accommodation – they’re stunning.
Book It Now: Beppu Showaen Ryokan
We saved the best (view) for last – if you’re the type to prioritise a completely breathtaking view above all else, then Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei is an absolute must! Located (surprise, surprise) right by the sea means that you’ll get commanding views of the water from many points of the hotel.
Not all rooms offer sea views; however, the mountain views are not too shabby themselves. The rooms themselves are impressively large and spacious.
The highlight of this hotel would definitely be the public hot spring baths available. There is one communal bath that is available from 3:00pm until 9:30am the next day, and there is also a rooftop open-air bath that is open from 3:00pm until 12:00am, and then from 4:00am until 9:30am.
To be honest, the rooftop onsen is what gets people talking. The uninterrupted views of the ocean that stretch into the horizon will simply take your breath away.
Book It Now: Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei
The hot springs of Beppu are known far and wide across Japan for their beauty and unique characteristics. Similarly, Tenku Yubo Seikaiso is an impressive ryokan with beautiful architecture and unique features that make it a highly sought-after accommodation choice in Beppu.
At first glance, you’d imagine that Tenku Yubo Seikaiso is your typical ryokan; however, it is relatively larger than most other ryokan options and offers so much more on its platter.
Guests have a range of rooms to select from, from rooms with calming views of Beppu Bay to rooms with exciting views of the city. They also offer rooms that come with an ashi-yu (foot bath) on the balcony, so you can pamper those sore feet after a full day of exploring.
Additionally, some rooms come with their own private open-air bath, which is a massive treat!
True to its location, if you haven’t booked a room with a private onsen, there are plenty of other options. Tenku Yubo Seikaiso boasts public hot spring baths for all guests to enjoy at any time (which are gender-separated).
If you’re not quite ready to bare it all just yet, have a look at booking one of the four private hot spring baths that the ryokan has on offer. They come at a small additional fee, but to experience the hot springs of Beppu in your own privacy is priceless.
Breakfast is included for all rooms, and we highly suggest that you don’t miss out on the delectable Japanese breakfast served every morning.
Book It Now: Tenku Yubo Seikaiso
Being able to witness the soft glow of Beppu City from the balcony as it lights up at night is just one reason to visit Chobo-no-Yado Shiori. Of course, the main reason would be that it is actually a superb ryokan that offers all the features and amenities for a heavenly stay!
Chobo-no-Yado Shiori is a 1-minute ride away via a free shuttle from JR Beppu Train Station. The accommodation boasts an outdoor and indoor public onsen bath, private onsen baths that can be reserved by guests, and stunning Japanese-style guest rooms with breathtaking ocean views.
Guests Tips: You will need to take the free shuttle to the city centre if you want to wander around the shops, etc, as it may be a little far on foot. It’s a small and cozy ryokan, so you will likely be able to book a slot for the private onsen; simply make a reservation at the front desk as you check in.
Book It Now: Chobo-no-Yado Shiori
There are so many ryokans available in the little city of Beppu that you will most likely be confused when initially looking at options, however, we’re confident that the list above contains a great variety of the best of the best, so rest assured, if you’re selecting one of the above, you’ll be in good hands.
From super traditional and evoking nostalgic emotions to incredibly modern and sleek architecture that pays homage to Japanese aesthetics, you are absolutely spoilt for choice when it comes to the most beautiful Japanese traditional inns in Beppu.
If you want more travel tips about this city, make sure you read our blog post the 15 best things to do in Beppu!
After choosing your favorite inn, make sure to also check out these 10 rules to know before you stay at a Ryokan: Ryokan Etiquette.
And if you are looking for more places to visit in this part of Kyushu, feel free to also check out Yufuin Onsen and Kurokawa Onsen.
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