KAMENOI HOTEL Aso
8,3/10 Excellent - Based on 1011 reviews
KAMENOI HOTEL Aso sits on the slopes of Mount Aso, offering views across the volcanic caldera and surrounding countryside. The property blends modern resort facilities with ryokan-style touches, providing Japanese tatami rooms, Western twin and mixed-layout rooms, and family or character-themed options. Public spaces include dining halls, a relaxed lobby and terraces that frame the landscape. The hotel functions as a family resort with facilities for couples and groups while retaining traditional elements such as guest yukata and on-site hot spring bathing.
Its bathing facilities draw on a local natural spring: several large communal baths and outdoor baths are arranged to showcase the mountain views, while family-sized private baths are available for those seeking solitude. Some room types include an en-suite bath for private soaks, and the property also schedules gender-separated public onsen hours and reservable family baths to balance privacy and access. For travelers searching specifically for a ryokan with onsen in Aso, the hotel provides both shared and private thermal bathing in Kumamoto.
Dining emphasizes regional produce with buffet and a la carte options that feature Kumamoto specialties and seasonal ingredients; menus commonly highlight local beef, mountain vegetables and coastal seafood. Facilities extend to an indoor pool, a children's play park, meeting and banquet spaces and light recreational options such as a small lawn and nearby walking paths, making the property suitable for short stays or extended family breaks. The hotel maintains practical guest services including multilingual reception assistance and shuttle arrangements from local transport hubs.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: KAMENOI HOTEL Aso
Positive Reviews
Spectacular mountain views
Many guests highlight stunning views of Mount Aso and surrounding volcanoes from rooms and public areas — frequently described as a major reason to stay.
Excellent onsen (hot spring) experience
Reviewers praise the natural hot-spring baths, with multiple indoor baths and a large outdoor onsen; several note memorable experiences (very hot, relaxing) and availability morning/evening.
Generous buffet meals
The dinner and breakfast buffets are regularly mentioned as varied, plentiful and high quality, with options for children and non-Japanese tastes; many guests found the food a strong point.
Spacious, clean and comfortable rooms
Guests report large, clean rooms (including tatami-style options), comfortable beds and good room furnishings that make stays relaxing and family-friendly.
Family-friendly location and service
The hotel is appreciated for being set in nature, offering activities/amenities for children, free shuttle service from Aso Station, yukata robes for guests, and generally helpful or sincere staff.
Negative Reviews
Outdated decor and facilities
Multiple reviews call the property, bathrooms and some furnishings tired or old-fashioned; some say the restaurant feels impersonal or like a canteen and that bathrooms/showers need renovation.
Price versus value concerns
Several guests felt the cost was high for what was offered, particularly noting the buffet/self-service meals and overall value did not always match the price.
Onsen access limitations or disappointment
A number of reviewers mentioned onsen limitations — reduced availability due to renovation, alternating gender time slots, or that the onsen was less impressive compared with other experiences.
Language barrier (limited English)
Some guests noted that staff do not speak much English, which can make communication and some requests more difficult, though visitors often managed regardless.
Some room types lack private bathroom amenities
Several reports point out that certain Japanese-style rooms have no private bath/shower or in-room washbasin, which surprised or inconvenienced guests expecting en-suite facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from double and family rooms to suites with private open-air baths; maximum occupancy varies by room type, so check the specific room details when booking or contact the hotel to confirm.
Yes — the property offers large indoor baths, open-air baths, observation baths with views of Mount Aso, saunas and family bathing areas.
Yes — the hotel provides reservable private baths (several types) for guests; reservations are required and morning and evening time slots are available.
Yes — a free shuttle runs between JR Aso Station and the hotel (about a 5‑minute ride); confirm the current shuttle schedule with the hotel before arrival.
Aso Kumamoto Airport is roughly 40–45 minutes by car; you can also take intercity buses to the nearby Kadode Dominion stop and walk a short distance, or travel to JR Aso Station and use the hotel shuttle.
The hotel provides English information online, but Japanese is the primary language on site; some staff speak limited English, so notify the hotel in advance if you need English assistance.
The hotel has a large buffet restaurant serving local Kumamoto dishes and a variety of breakfast options (including international and vegetarian choices); menus also include child-friendly selections.
Pets are not generally permitted unless a room is explicitly listed as pet-friendly; contact the hotel in advance to confirm its current pet policy and available rooms.
There are convenience stores and shops within a short drive of the hotel; the front desk can provide directions and up-to-date opening hours.
The hotel is a good base for Mount Aso, the five peaks, Sensuikyo Gorge and local hiking; public transport reaches Aso but having a car gives more flexibility to explore the wider area.