Hatago Kayausagi
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 135 reviews
Hatago Kayausagi is a small traditional inn set beside a mountain stream near Hita, blending a thatched-roof main house and timber-built annexes. The property presents a relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere with carefully chosen antiques and handmade touches that define each of its 13 guest rooms; some face the river while others sit within landscaped courtyards. Positioned as a ryokan with onsen in Ōita, the inn emphasizes a quiet, restorative stay framed by rural scenery and seasonal light.
Accommodation is divided between six rooms in the original thatched main building and seven detached cottages, several of which include both indoor baths and private open-air baths; these annex baths are supplied by a flowing natural hot spring. Room types range from compact single tatami rooms to two-storey maisonettes, and the detached units offer differing bath sizes and views so guests can select a layout that suits privacy and group size. For travellers seeking seclusion, the property functions as a ryokan with private onsen in Ōita Prefecture, with a small number of rooms offering en-suite open-air bathing.
On-site amenities include a public indoor bath and an outdoor bath, free on-property parking and a pickup service from Hita transport hubs by prior arrangement; reception operates with a mid-afternoon check-in window and a late-morning checkout. Meals focus on seasonally sourced local produce prepared as multi-course dinners and breakfast; private dining options are available in designated rooms. Staff provide practical assistance with local directions, luggage handling and arranging nearby sightseeing, making the inn suited to visitors who want a traditional hot-spring experience outside urban centres.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hatago Kayausagi
Positive Reviews
Outstanding staff and hospitality
Many reviews highlight exceptionally friendly, attentive and communicative staff; hosts went the extra mile (pickups, flexible timings, helpful service), creating memorable, warm hospitality.
Excellent onsen experience
Guests praised both public and private onsen options — high quality hot springs, beautiful outdoor baths and private onsen availability for a relaxing, authentic experience.
Delicious, abundant kaiseki meals
Dinner and breakfast were repeatedly described as superb, elaborate and delicious (many finished everything), with high-quality, thoughtfully prepared courses.
Charming traditional atmosphere and thoughtful details
The ryokan’s vintage, traditional design, attention to detail (ikebana, unique furnishings, thoughtful amenities) and peaceful atmosphere were frequently praised as authentic and beautiful.
Smooth communication and convenient pickup
Reviewers appreciated clear communication before arrival, easy check-in, and a courtesy pickup service from the station which made reaching the property straightforward despite its rural location.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited nearby scenery
The property is in a quiet, rural area; some guests found the immediate surroundings less scenic (dry river, nearby industrial/backdrop once leaving the gardens) and noted limited daytime activities.
Some room comfort issues
A few guests reported minor room drawbacks such as tatami/room smell, rooms feeling cold or dark due to traditional styling, dry air (suggested humidifier), and a squeaky larger bed.
Private indoor onsen temperature
A reviewer noted the private indoor onsen could be very hot; while not a major issue (private outdoor onsen available), temperature control was mentioned as a concern.
No en-suite bath in some room types
Certain room categories have no attached bath, requiring use of the communal onsen — important to note for guests expecting an in-room bathtub.
Layout/accessibility concerns in some units
A few mentions of steep stairs in duplex rooms and rough footing in one outdoor bath; these could be inconvenient for guests with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms vary: standard Japanese-style rooms sleep 2–3 on futons, while larger annex houses or suites can accommodate up to about 5 guests using beds plus futons. Check the specific room type when booking for exact capacity.
Yes — the property offers communal indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, and some room types or annex units include a private open-air bath. Towels and basic bath amenities are provided.
The ryokan provides a pickup service from JR Hita Station if you request it in advance (service generally runs until early evening). There is no regular airport shuttle; most guests arrive via Kumamoto or Fukuoka airports then transfer by train to Hita Station.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 (3:00 PM) and the front desk asks arrivals to notify their estimated time; check-out is by 11:00 (11:00 AM). If you have dinner included, inform the ryokan of earlier arrival as meal timing may require it.
Primary language is Japanese, but staff commonly handle basic English and are experienced with international guests. If you need assistance in English, note it when you book or contact the ryokan in advance.
Children are welcome, though policies on bedding and charges vary by room type and age; cribs and extra beds are generally not available. Pets are not allowed, but service animals are accepted—confirm details before arrival.
The ryokan serves traditional multi-course kaiseki dinners made from seasonal local ingredients and offers breakfast on-site. Guests with dinner included are usually asked to check in by around 18:00 to ensure meal service.
There is no supermarket on the property, but Hita town has convenience stores and local shops a short taxi ride or walk away for basic supplies. Larger grocery options are available in the town centre.
Nearby points of interest include Yaba‑Hita‑Hikosan Quasi‑National Park, Hita Gion Museum, and local craft and brewery sites within a few kilometres. The ryokan is a convenient base for exploring Hita’s historic streets and natural scenery.
Some room types include a private open-air bath and the property offers private-bath options in certain accommodations; communal baths remain available to all guests. Ask the ryokan when booking to reserve any private-bath rooms or time slots.