10 of the Best Ryokans with Private Onsens in Kyushu

The southern Japanese island of Kyushu is home to verdant forests and dramatic volcanic mountains. It's also famous for its natural hot springs, known as onsen baths, which have long been part of the Japanese wellness experience. Intimate ryokans — traditonal inns — tucked within towns, villages, and the surrounding countryside, offer public and private onsen baths, delicious cuisine and warm hospitality. The top hot spring destinations in the Oita region include coastal Beppu, and smaller, more tranquil Yufuin and Kurokawa Onsen. Our selection of the best ryokans with private onsens in Kyushu features luxurious hideaways for romantic couples as well as a swish seaside spots, perfect for unwinding with a view. Believed to have healing properties, onsen baths are a wonderful part of a rejuvenating Japanese journey!

For Traditional Charm

• Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu is a gorgeous, adults-only ryokan in Kurokawa Onsen. Well located for exploring, this 11-room boutique spot is surrounded by verdant forest. Beamed ceilings, tatami mats and low-level dining tables give rooms with private onsens a traditional feel. The restaurant is excellent.
• Yufuin Sanso Waremokou has steaming outdoor hot spring baths with mountain views, and a terrific seasonal menu — including blowfish and a wide range of sakes. Classic rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and futon beds. The best have hot spring baths of their own.
• Ryokan Wakaba should be top of the list for hikers and birdwatchers, who will appreciate the leafy location. On a 1.6 acre site close to the Tanohara River and various trekking routes, this traditional ryokan has 26 pared-back rooms with low seating areas and tatami matting. Rooms in the new building have private terrace baths. The kaiseki cuisine is superb.

For a Private Hideaway

• Beppu Showaen takes the classic ryokan concept to the next level with individual Japanese houses set amidst lush, manicured grounds. Each house features tatami matting and futon bedding, beautiful garden views and an in-room or open-air hot spring bath. The multi-course gourmet Japanese meals are exceptional — especially when served in the privacy of your own restful hideaway. A charming choice for couples or families and small groups.
• Miyama Sansou resembles a small village, with buildings set between the forest, vegetable gardens and the paddy fields. Individual cottages with private indoor or outdoor onsens promise plenty of privacy, ideal for those looking to unwind in blissful tranquility. Take long walks, hone your fishing skills, or go skiing in the winter.

For Romantic Luxury

• Takefue offers luxurious lodges nestled within an otherworldly bamboo grove. Take restful soaks in private romtemburo outdoor baths, enjoy rejuvenating massages and feast on delectable cuisine at the restaurant. A hugely romantic boutique choice close to Kurokawa Onsen, this is one of our favourite ryokans with private onsens in Kyushu.
• Yufuin Hoteiya is just outside Yufuin, but feels wonderfully quiet. Perfect for those dreaming of an authentic ryokan experience, this sophisticated hotel has tatami mats, paper shutters, and private hot spring baths. Lantern-lit evenings are gorgeous, and the seasonal menu of local dishes is fantastic.
• Yufuin Rikka has just six luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel fuses classic Japanese style with modern minimalism to create more contemporary spaces. Expect crisp white sheets, ergonomic chairs, small balconies and wood-clad walls. Add the gourmet cuisine and private onsen baths, and you're in for a romantic treat.

FOR OCEAN VIEWS

• Umikaoru Yado Hotel New Matsumi is a lovely traditional hotel in Beppu with both communal and private hot spring baths. Gaze out to sea whilst immersing yourself in the restorative waters before retreating to your tatami-matted room. A classic ryokan with impressive sea views and large family rooms. Simple and authentic.
• Amane Resort Seikai fuses cool, contemporary design with traditional Japanese elements to create a luxurious sea-facing base. The 46 rooms and suites are spacious and offer family-friendly options — some also have private terraces with their own open air baths. Unwind at the spa or hot spring baths, and dine on exemplary regional cuisine at the water's edge in Beppu. Smart and soothing.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Kyushu.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see the 14 Best Hakone Ryokans with a Private Onsen or the 11 Best Ryokans in Kyoto.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

  • Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto) 11 rooms from €489

    
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    Cycling  -  Hire bicycles to explore the area on two wheels, cycling both through town and along the river into the surrounding forest

    Honeymoons  -  An adults-only spot with indulgent rooms and suites featuring hot spring baths and delicious cuisine

    Local exploring  -  Brilliantly located for exploring the town, nearby hot springs and restaurants on foot

    Birdwatching  -  Bring your bird book and binoculars to spot local wildlife flitting between the trees

    

    A small traditional Japanese inn set in town yet surrounded by forest. The eleven atmospheric rooms have beamed ceilings, tatami mats and low-level dining tables. Regional dishes are served in the dining room and there are both indoor and outdoor onsens to relax in. A charming, adult-only stay. See More

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  • Yufuin Sanso Waremokou Yufuin (Yufu) 5 rooms from €414

    
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    Museums  -  The Yufuin Motorcycle Museum is less than 2 kilometres away, and makes for a great afternoon out

    Total relaxation  -  With stunning mountain views and a number of hot spring baths this is a very relaxing stay.

    Families  -  Families will appreciate the two-bedroom suites and flexible futon options

    Great walks  -  Stroll along the walking paths surrounding scenic Kinrinko Lake

    

    A boutique property boasting stunning mountain views. Steaming outdoor hot spring baths take advantage of the picturesque setting. Traditionally styled rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and futon beds. Find an exemplary seasonal menu (including blowfish) and a selection of sake. Superb. See More

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  • Ryokan Wakaba Kurokawa Onsen (Minamioguni) 15 rooms from €258

    
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    Groups  -  Groups will appreciate the larger rooms, which have space for 4 futon beds, and the shared onsens

    Back to Nature  -  A tranquil property set within the forest, this is a great choice for hikers and spa-goers

    Other Activities  -  Unwind in the hotel's onsens (hot water spring baths) or enjoy a restorative massage

    Sights nearby  -  The impressive Aso Shrine is a local landmark and well worth visiting

    

    A charming traditional ryokan set in the leafy forest, close to the river.Rooms feature tatami mats, floor-level dining tables and paper shutters - some have private bathrooms. A number of indoor and outdoor hot spring baths will ease any aching muscles. Rural bliss for keen hikers and birdwatchers. See More

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  • Beppu Showaen Beppu (Oita) 11 rooms from €655

    
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    Total relaxation  -  A luxury property set in picturesque gardens, offering a tranquil haven in the heart of the city

    Families  -  Spacious houses with western beds and additional futons are perfect for families or groups

    Sights nearby  -  Take the Beppu Ropeway for panoramic views of the city and the sea

    Other Activities  -  Rakutenchi Amusement Park is just three minutes' walk away

    

    A collection of traditional houses in beautifully manicured gardens. Traditional rooms feature tatami mats, floor-level dining, paper shutters and Japanese art. Each house boasts a healing hot water spring bath and some have space for families. Exemplary regional dishes are served in-room. Superb. See More

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  • Miyama Sansou Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto Prefecture) 16 rooms from €462

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Rooms with private hot spring tubs are perfect for unwinding in traditional, luxurious surroundings

    Country Escape  -  Overlooking a stream, leafy forest and lush green paddy fields, this is a picturesque rural spot

    Skiing  -  Hit the slopes at the nearby Kuju Forest park Ski Area during the winter months

    Great walks  -  Ask the team about marked paths for relaxing walks in the area

    

    A luxurious rural escape built to resemble a small village. Chic individual cottages have minimalist traditional interiors and architecture making the most of the epic views. Rooms feature natural spring hot tubs, western beds and paper shutters. The perfect countryside hideaway for adults. See More

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  • Takefue Kurokawa Onsen (Aso District) 12 rooms from €553

    
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    Spa breaks  -  With a Zen Spa onsite complete with natural hot springs and holistic treaments, book this hotel for a unique spa break

    Romantic Break  -  With luxury toiletries, romantic hot springs and a peaceful setting, book this hotel for a couples' hideaway holiday

    Back to Nature  -  Located on the cusp of a bamboo forest in Shirakawa, this hotel makes a tranquil nature retreat

    Sights nearby  -  Take a day trip to the Tsuetate Hot Spring in nearby Oguni-machi; ask the hotel to arrange a transfer for you

    

    This hideaway hotel is nestled within a native bamboo forest in Kyushu. Guest lodges are equipped with straw sandals, Tempur bedding and bamboo grove water from nearby springs, in addition to a tea box and traditional Yukata gowns. Soak in natural hot springs after dinner at the restaurant. See More

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  • Yufuin Hoteiya Yufuin (Yufu-shi) 14 rooms from €407

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Choose a private annex with a hot spring bath to experience the tranquil magic of the Yufuin thermal region

    Great walks  -  Scenic strolls around Lake Kinrin are particularly special in the early morning

    Hideaway  -  A tranquil rural hideaway close to Mount Yufu, perfect or a relaxed break

    Trekking  -  Hike up Mount Yufu, following trails which begin close to the property

    

    A traditional property located in the picturesque Yufuin area. Japanese style rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and lanterns. The best boast private outdoor hot spring baths. Spend evenings feasting on regional cuisine after a day spent in the great outdoors. A rejuvenating stay. See More

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  • Yufuin Rikka Yufuin (Yufu) 6 rooms from €438

    
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    Foodies  -  This hotel offers a unique menu of contemporary, fusion cuisine, great for travellers looking to sample modern Asian gastronomy

    Romantic Break  -  The modern suites at this hotel are great for a romantic break, offering a blend of Japanese style and Western comforts

    Local exploring  -  This hotel is perfectly placed for sightseeing in and around Yufu, with parking available for guests onsite

    Sights nearby  -  Spend a morning at the Ogosha Shrine, a little-visited shrine close to the hotel which is over 1000 years old

    

    This hotel is a charming 'ryokan' or Japanese-style inn. Set in Yufu, an area renowned for its hot springs, the hotel offers contemporary guestrooms featuring sit-out terraces with open-air baths. Guests love the food at this hotel, a fusion menu of Western and Japanese cuisine. See More

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  • Umikaoru Yado Hotel New Matsumi Beppu (Oita) 35 rooms from €207

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Beautiful baths with ocean views make this a top choice for a restful Beppu stay

    Other Activities  -  Takegawara Hot Springs, famous for its sand bath, is just 5-minutes walk away

    Families  -  Spacious rooms with four futon beds are great for families or groups

    Views  -  Striking ocean views from the hotel's waterfront location

    

    A traditional Japanese hotel boasting an enviable location in the heart of Beppu. Rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and futon beds - Western beds are another option. Outdoor onsens with sea views are a real treat before savouring regional dishes in the restaurant. An authentic stay. See More

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  • Amane Resort Seikai Beppu (Oita) 46 rooms from €224

    
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    Spa breaks  -  A restorative spa hotel with a sea-facing swimming pool, great massages and private onsen baths

    City Style  -  A stylish hotel overlooking the water, this is a brilliant choice for a central Beppu stay

    Trekking  -  Hike up Mount Tsurumi to enjoy spectacular views from the top of the mountain

    Wildlife Area  -  Take the whole family to the Takasakiyama Monkey Park for the afternoon

    

    A sleek luxury property overlooking the ocean. Contemporary rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, enormous terraces and the best boast hot tubs. The design perfectly mixes traditional Japanese with contemporary styles. An elegant restaurant serves up exemplary regional dishes. Fabulous. See More

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Written by Saskia Walker

posted Wednesday, 26th April 2023