Ryoan Fukinotou
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 80 reviews
Set in a quiet stretch of the Kunisaki Peninsula, this small, wood-built inn sits beside a well-known temple complex and a stretch of walking trails that trace the peninsula’s rural contours. The property presents a traditional layout with tatami rooms and futon bedding arranged in both compact and more spacious configurations, plus a small garden that frames mornings and evenings with bamboo and bird song. Its location makes it a practical base for exploring the peninsula’s temples and coastal scenery while offering the calm that many visitors seek away from larger towns in Ōita.
Facilities are straightforward and focused on a classic ryokan experience: guest rooms include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, a small fridge and electric kettle, and each is equipped with toiletries and a modern bidet toilet. Meals are served in a communal dining area where multi-course, locally sourced preparations are offered at dinner and a simpler breakfast is available; hosts serve these in a way that emphasizes seasonal ingredients from the region. Bathing facilities include an on-site hot spring area, so the property functions as a ryokan with onsen on the Kunisaki Peninsula rather than a purely self-catering lodge; the public baths are described as cedar-lined and are intended for shared use by guests.
Practical details that matter to travelers include free on-site parking and property-wide Wi‑Fi, making the inn accessible for those arriving by car; drives from nearby rail stations and Oita Airport are typically under an hour. The style of service is personal and low-key, reflecting a family-run approach: staff help with local directions, meal arrangements and luggage, and the atmosphere suits guests looking for a measured, rural onsen stay rather than a large-resort experience. For visitors prioritizing a traditional stay with convenient access to local temples and walking routes, this ryokan with onsen in Ōita offers a clear, quietly local option.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryoan Fukinotou
Positive Reviews
Outstanding, locally inspired meals
Many guests praised the food as beautifully presented, abundant and delicious—often highlighting traditional, local dishes (including homemade soba) served at dinner and breakfast.
Warm, attentive staff and hospitality
Staff were repeatedly described as friendly, helpful and highly hospitable; several reviews called the service exceptional and a highlight of the stay.
Peaceful, scenic rural location
The ryokan’s setting beside Fuki‑ji temple and in the countryside was frequently noted as idyllic—great for relaxation, morning zen experiences and nearby cultural walks.
Authentic traditional rooms and comfort
Guests appreciated the traditional Japanese rooms: simple, well‑designed and comfortable with good futons and pillows, contributing to restful sleep and an authentic ryokan experience.
Relaxing onsen facilities
The onsen was considered a strong positive—beautiful baths with cedar scent that rounded off stays and provided a relaxing communal bathing experience.
Negative Reviews
Onsen availability and temperature issues
A few guests reported problems with the baths (e.g., the onsen closed one afternoon for cleaning and at least one report of lukewarm water at night), affecting access or comfort.
Limited English information
Some visitors noted a lack of English signage or information about the local area, which made planning or exploring the surroundings harder for non‑Japanese speakers.
Room size and futon setup for groups
A number of reviewers said rooms could feel small for four adults; some guests also mentioned they were expected to set up futons themselves (though bedding and covers were provided).
Noise/privacy from adjacent rooms
Occasional noise issues were reported, such as sounds from neighboring bathrooms (toilet paper noise) carrying into rooms, which affected quietness for some guests.
Natural‑setting downsides (insects) and temperature control
A few reviewers mentioned spiderwebs or insects around windows—an aspect of the rural setting—and some found the room temperature harder to regulate to their liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style with futons; room types advertised include twin and quadruple layouts, so most rooms accommodate between 2 and 4 guests depending on the room booked.
Yes — the property has an on-site hot spring (onsen) with a public bath for guests to use; private baths are not listed as standard but can be asked about when booking or at check‑in.
The ryokan has an on-site restaurant and offers traditional Japanese meals; breakfast is especially noted and dinner is typically local, multi-course style when included in a plan.
Standard check-in hours are from 15:00 (3:00 PM) to 18:00 (6:00 PM) and check-out is by 10:00 AM.
There is no regular shuttle service advertised; the easiest access is by car or taxi, and the ryokan provides free on-site parking for guests.
The property is best reached by car or taxi from nearby stations — it lies within about a 30–40 minute drive from the nearest JR hubs and is some distance from Beppu and Oita stations, so taxis or a rental car are the most practical options.
Staff support English in addition to Japanese, so basic communication in English is available.
The site lists a public hot spring bath as the main facility; private-reservation options are not guaranteed on standard listings, so request private use directly with the property when you book or at check‑in.
Pets are not allowed at this ryokan.
The ryokan sits next to the historic Fukiji temple and is within driving distance of Taizo-ji Temple, Kinrin-ko/Beppu areas and other local sites; basic shops and convenience stores in Bungotakada are a short drive away for supplies.