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!
Beppu (Oita)
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.
Beppu (Oita)
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.
Beppu (Oita)
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.
Kurokawa Onsen (Minamioguni)
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.
Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto)
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.
Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto Prefecture )
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.
Yufuin (Yufu)
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.
Yufuin (Yufu-shi)
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.
Kurokawa Onsen (Aso District)
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.
Yufuin (Yufu)
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.
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