徳の宿 ふぶ庵
9,4/10 Exceptional - Based on 92 reviews
徳の宿 ふぶ庵 (Fubuan) is a compact, all-detached ryokan set on the slopes above Beppu, where villa-style units blend traditional Japanese materials with contemporary comforts. The property operates on a room-only basis, prioritizing solitude and the bathing experience rather than meal service, and most suites pair a continuously flowing kakenagashi indoor bath with a semi-open-air tub. Rooms emphasize tatami flooring, low furnishings and quiet, uncluttered lines, creating a calm retreat for visitors seeking focused relaxation. This layout makes it a practical choice for travelers looking for a ryokan with private onsen in Beppu.
Accommodations include two-storey maisonettes with separate living and sleeping levels and single-level flats, suited to couples or small groups. Standard in-room amenities include air conditioning, complimentary Wi‑Fi, refrigerator, microwave and electric kettle, plus secure storage and a flat-screen TV; bedding can be Western-style beds or futons on tatami. The in-room baths draw directly from a local thermal source and are operated as kakenagashi, so the water flows continuously rather than being recirculated. Private terraces and modest views over the town and nearby hills reinforce the sense of seclusion.
On the practical side, the property provides on-site parking and straightforward access to Beppu’s hot-spring circuit and nearby sightseeing spots, making day trips convenient for those with a car. The detached, small-scale layout suits travelers who prioritize uninterrupted soaking time and privacy over full-board ryokan dining; a variety of local restaurants and small shops are within easy reach. For a short urban onsen stay or a quiet base to explore the region, the in-room kakenagashi baths and villa-style rooms position this ryokan with private onsen in Ōita as a focused option for guests seeking solitary bathing and a restful atmosphere.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: 徳の宿 ふぶ庵
Positive Reviews
Private onsen facilities
Many guests praised having private baths in the room—often both an indoor and outdoor onsen—calling them relaxing and a highlight of the stay. Several reviews mention two separate onsen experiences in one villa and large, easy-to-use spa facilities.
Friendly, attentive staff and host
Multiple reviews note the host and staff were very kind, helpful and attentive—providing local tips, showing how the room/onsen works, arranging transport and making guests feel welcome.
Clean, well-equipped rooms
Guests reported clean accommodations with useful amenities such as a fridge, oven or microwave for convenience-store food, high-tech toilets and provided entertainment. Overall cleanliness and practical equipment were highlighted positively.
Traditional Japanese charm and comfortable sleeping
The ryokan's traditional Japanese decor and layout were appreciated—tatami areas, futons described as comfortable, and a pleasant mix of traditional and modern style that many found authentic and enjoyable.
Peaceful location and views
Reviewers enjoyed the quiet, relaxing setting with nice views over the city from balconies or onsens. Several mentioned free parking and proximity to local onsen areas and restaurants as convenient benefits.
Negative Reviews
Location and transport can be inconvenient
Some guests found the property a considerable walk from main bus or train stops (one reported ~25 minutes uphill) and recommended a car or taxi for easier access to Beppu's main areas.
Occasional onsen/technical issues
A few reviews mentioned technical problems with the thermal baths during their stay, indicating that the onsen facilities can occasionally require maintenance.
Traditional layout may lack comfortable seating
A number of guests noted the very traditional setup (tatami and futons) meant there were limited comfortable chairs or conventional living-room seating, which made long periods of sitting or relaxing indoors less comfortable for some visitors.
Cleaning schedule / room access inconvenience
At least one guest was asked to vacate the room for an extended cleaning window (around four hours), which they found inconvenient when hoping to use the balcony tub or relax in the room between stays.
Minor maintenance and older-amenity issues
A few small issues were reported such as an entrance lock that could be improved and occasional faint smell of smoke or older fittings in some rooms—these were mentioned rarely but noted by some guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most room types accommodate up to five guests; exact bedding (futons or beds) depends on the room type, so check the room description before booking.
Each detached room has its own private hot-spring baths, typically an indoor bath and a semi-open (outdoor) bath fed by natural flowing spring water.
There is no regular airport shuttle; the nearest airport is Oita Airport (about 35 km). Guests usually arrive by train plus taxi or by car, and you may contact the ryokan in advance to ask about private pickup options.
Check-in is from 16:00 to 19:00 and check-out is by 11:00; please inform the property of your expected arrival time if you will arrive late.
Staff provide guest assistance in English to a useful degree and are reported to be helpful with directions and local recommendations.
You will stay in detached Japanese-style villas with tatami and private hot-spring baths, offering a ryokan atmosphere focused on relaxation rather than included meals.
The ryokan is close to Kannawa and the Beppu 'Hells' (Jigoku Meguri); many sights are a short taxi ride or a reasonable walk, and having a car makes exploring the area easier.
Pets are not permitted on the property. Each room’s onsen is private for guest use; whole-property rental requests should be arranged directly with the ryokan in advance.
Yes — the ryokan operates a room-only (no-meals) style and allows food brought in or delivered, though strong-odour items and open BBQ are discouraged; convenience stores and supermarkets are within a short drive and staff can advise nearby options.
Top nearby sights include the Beppu Jigoku (Hells) area, Kannawa hot-spring district, Yukemori observatory and local museums; the ryokan staff can suggest routes and dining spots to complement your visit.