Boyokaku
8,2/10 Excellent - Based on 43 reviews
Perched on a coastal promontory of Amakusa, Boyokaku presents a measured blend of traditional Japanese accommodation and resort-style amenities. The property faces the East China Sea, with rooms and public terraces arranged to capture evening light and coastal panoramas; a garden and sun-facing terraces create quiet spots to watch fishing boats and sunset colors. Accommodation options include classic tatami-style rooms and Western-style twin rooms, some rooms offering private balconies with uninterrupted sea views. Seasonal features such as an outdoor swimming pool and bicycle rental extend the range of daytime activities, and on-site dining focuses on local seafood and seasonal produce presented in a straightforward, regionally rooted style.
The bathing facilities are a central element of the guest experience: the ryokan offers a range of communal bathing options including a large indoor bath, a garden-style open-air bath with coastal sightlines and a sauna, all maintained for public use rather than as exclusively private suites. These arrangements make Boyokaku a practical choice for travelers seeking a ryokan with onsen in Kumamoto who want a substantial bathing area combined with thermal and relaxation facilities. Bathing etiquette is observed throughout the property, and the layout separates wet areas from dining and sleeping spaces to preserve comfort for all guests.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Boyokaku
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen experience
Multiple guests praised the hot spring baths as very good and relaxing, often highlighted as a key reason for visiting and enjoying their stay.
Delicious, well-presented meals
Many reviews specifically praised the kaiseki dinners and breakfasts for being tasty, plentiful and attractively presented, with several guests mentioning memorable meals and window seating with sea views.
Attentive, friendly staff and hospitality
Numerous guests commented on polite, caring service from the team (including the proprietress), noting thoughtful gestures, warm greetings and overall strong omotenashi that made stays comfortable.
Lovely sea views and sunsets
Several reviewers enjoyed rooms with ocean views and beautiful sunset scenery from dining areas or rooms, which contributed positively to their impression of the property.
Spacious or upgraded rooms for some guests
A number of guests reported satisfactory room sizes, and at least one noted being upgraded to a better room than booked, enhancing their comfort and experience.
Negative Reviews
Facility and decor aging
Multiple guests felt parts of the hotel and some rooms were dated or slightly run down, suggesting the property could benefit from updates or refurbishment.
Small or awkward room bathrooms/toilets
Several reviews described in-room bathrooms or toilets as narrow, cramped or difficult to use, and some guests were uncomfortable with the layout or size of toilet facilities.
Onsen/drainage issues in public baths
At least one guest reported drainage problems in part of the large public bath that caused cold spots on feet and reduced enjoyment of the onsen; another noted the onsen lacked a scenic view.
Pricing transparency and perceived value
Some guests felt the stay was a bit expensive for the standard offered; one mentioned staff quoted add-on meal prices excluding tax and was disappointed at checkout, affecting perceived value.
Limited/pricey shop and exposure to elements
A couple of comments noted the hotel shop had few items and high prices, and one review mentioned wind-driven sea spray reaching the roadside parking on very windy days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms include Japanese-style rooms that can sleep up to three on futons and twin rooms for two; family-room options are available and children over three are treated as adults; no extra beds or baby cots are provided.
Yes — Boyokaku offers natural hot‑spring baths including indoor and open‑air (roten) baths and a sauna; private or family baths may be reservable on request.
Transfer service is offered from Amakusa Airport and main ports with prior reservation; otherwise taxis or rental cars are the usual options and drive time from Amakusa Airport is roughly 25–40 minutes.
Staff at the property speak Japanese and English.
Guests can expect tatami Japanese‑style rooms, seafood kaiseki‑style meals, wearing yukata, onsen bathing, and scenic ocean‑view sunsets.
Nearby highlights include Amakusa coastal viewpoints and sunsets, Oe (Oe‑Tenshudo) Church, Sakitsu Church, and parts of Amakusa National Park.
The most convenient options are rental car or taxis; the ryokan offers bicycle rentals for short rides and local buses serve the main towns.
Check‑in is generally from 15:00 to 20:30 and check‑out from 07:00 to 10:00; please notify the ryokan in advance if you expect to arrive late.
Pets are not permitted at the property; private or family baths may be available by request — contact the ryokan to arrange a reservation.
There is an on‑site restaurant serving local seafood and breakfast, and small restaurants and shops are nearby; the front desk can point you to the nearest supermarket.