Hita Onsen Kizantei Hotel
8,6/10 Excellent - Based on 233 reviews
Hita Onsen Kizantei Hotel sits on the banks of the Mikuma River in Hita, Oita, presenting a mix of traditional Japanese rooms and western-style options that overlook the water. Guest accommodation ranges from standard and moderate Japanese-style rooms to premium Japanese‑western suites and universal‑design rooms; several upper-floor rooms are described with in‑room hot spring facilities. The property emphasises seasonal local cuisine in its restaurants and provides common facilities such as a lobby foot bath, souvenir shop and bike rentals, framed by a riverside setting that ties the hotel to Hita’s historic townscape.
The bathing facilities combine public and private possibilities: a large indoor bath with views over the river and an outdoor rooftop bath are highlighted for open‑air soaking, while specific premium and superior rooms are listed as “with Hot Spring,” indicating in‑room private onsen options for guests seeking a ryokan with private onsen in Oita. The hotel also offers family bathing options and a sauna and lists wellness amenities alongside practical features such as free parking and a shuttle service noted in guest information. These arrangements make the property suitable both for visitors wanting communal onsen experiences and those preferring private in‑room bathing.
Beyond baths and rooms, the hotel programs local experiences tied to the river: houseboat cruises and guided sightseeing suggestions are promoted as ways to engage with Hita’s seasonal scenery, while staff services include multilingual reception and practical guest support. The combination of riverside hot springs, several room formats including rooms advertised as having hot spring baths, and on‑site dining focused on regional produce positions the property as a straightforward choice for travellers searching for a ryokan with onsen in Ōita who want both river views and options for private bathing.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hita Onsen Kizantei Hotel
Positive Reviews
Excellent riverside location and views
Many guests praise the hotel's position on the Mikuma river — rooms, terraces and tubs offer relaxing river views, easy riverside walks and a scenic atmosphere at sunrise/sunset.
Warm, helpful staff and memorable hospitality
Numerous reviews highlight exceptionally friendly staff and owner involvement — staff speak some English, arrange local trips (e.g. museum/pottery visits), offer useful local tips, and go out of their way to assist guests.
Outstanding meals and traditional breakfast
Guests consistently mention very good set meals and an excellent Japanese breakfast. The kitchen is willing to accommodate dietary needs (e.g. vegetarian or allergies) and portions are generous.
Comfortable rooms and ryokan features
Rooms with tatami or mixed Japanese‑Western layouts are described as comfortable with good beds/futons, large bathrooms (in some room types), useful amenities (air purifier, massage chair) and generally clean, well‑maintained interiors.
Convenient complimentary services and value
Reviewers appreciate value for money and extras such as free shuttle service (when working), free bicycle rental, 24‑hour coffee in the lobby and helpful concierge arrangements, which enhance the stay.
Negative Reviews
Aging facilities and visible wear
Multiple guests note that the hotel is older and some areas (hallways, outlets, general facilities) feel dated or worn despite being cared for; expectations should match a historic property.
Small or inconsistent onsen and water issues
Several reviews mention the public/rooftop baths are small, and that outdoor onsens or showers can be insufficiently hot or have weak water flow at times.
Occasional odors or bathroom drainage problems
A few guests reported minor unpleasant smells in-room or from drains and occasional light mold/old‑furniture scents, typically described as temporary or not severe.
Limited nearby dining/nightlife and reservation needs
The town is quiet — guests looking for many shops, bars or late dining may be disappointed; several recommend booking food in advance and note it can be hard to find places to eat at night.
Inconsistent service experiences and guest noise
While many praise staff, isolated reports describe shuttle no‑shows or unwelcoming reception interactions, and others mention noisy or inconsiderate fellow guests affecting the onsen/lounge experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from twin and Japanese-style rooms for two up to family-style rooms that sleep up to five; check each room’s listed capacity when booking.
The property features public hot spring baths, an open-air (rotenburo) bath with river views and a sauna for guest use.
Yes — select premium rooms include private hot spring tubs, while public and open‑air baths are available for all guests.
The hotel can assist with transfers and many guests report a shuttle or pickup service from the local bus/train area; please contact the hotel in advance to arrange collection.
The nearest major airport is Fukuoka Airport (about 60–75 km away); travel time by road or public transport is typically around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on connections.
Staff commonly speak Japanese and there is English support at reception; many guests note helpful English communication from the owner and front desk.
Guests can stay in tatami-style rooms with futon bedding, wear provided yukata, enjoy seasonal multi-course Japanese meals, and take a seasonal riverside houseboat cruise or sightseeing trip arranged by the hotel.
The ryokan sits on the Mikuma River with riverside walks and scenic views; nearby Hita town offers historic streets, parks and seasonal cherry‑blossom spots, and the front desk can recommend local sights.
Standard check‑in is from 15:00 to 19:00 and check‑out is by 10:00; if you expect to arrive outside those hours, notify the hotel beforehand to confirm arrangements.
Pets are not permitted; the ryokan has two on‑site restaurants (plus seasonal houseboat dining) but there are limited shops immediately nearby — the hotel can advise or arrange transport to the nearest supermarket or dining options.