Yufuin-Sanso Waremokou
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Yufuin-Sanso Waremokou occupies a quiet hillside setting above the town, arranged as a cluster of wood-and-tatami guesthouses that open onto planted terraces and views toward Mount Yufu. Designed for a private hot-spring stay, the property is described as a ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin: many accommodations include an en-suite hot-spring bath, commonly with both an indoor tub and a small outdoor bath tucked into a garden, while larger communal bathing facilities are also provided for guests who prefer shared thermal space.
Rooms are individually styled with traditional elements—tatami flooring, shoji partitions and low-lying furniture—alongside modest modern comforts such as refrigeration and climate control; several room types accommodate small dogs in designated pet-friendly units. Meals follow seasonal kaiseki and Japanese breakfast formats served in dedicated dining areas or private dining rooms, showcasing local produce and careful presentation. Practical amenities include massage options, on-site parking and a complimentary shuttle service to Yufuin station, making this ryokan with onsen in Ōita a convenient base for exploring the town and surrounding attractions.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yufuin-Sanso Waremokou
Positive Reviews
Attentive, friendly staff and excellent service
Many reviewers praised the staff for being warm, very attentive and service-minded — meeting guests on arrival, accommodating requests, and creating a relaxed, personal experience throughout the stay.
Outstanding meals — quality, variety and presentation
Multiple guests highlighted elaborate multi-course dinners and breakfasts that were high quality, varied and beautifully presented. Several reviews noted that meals (often served privately) were a standout feature and worth recommending.
Private onsens with great views
The in-room/private hot springs — both indoor and outdoor baths — were repeatedly mentioned as a major highlight. Guests enjoyed privacy, the design of the baths, and scenic views (including Mt. Yufu) while soaking.
Clean, comfortable rooms and good amenities
Reviews report spacious, clean and comfortable rooms (some with king beds or massage chairs), provision of yukata, and private patios or garden areas. Overall comfort and room quality were frequently commended.
Quiet, peaceful location with shuttle and good value
Guests appreciated the tranquil, tucked-away setting and considered the property good value compared with pricier ryokans. The complimentary or on-request shuttle to/from the station was noted as helpful given the hillside location.
Negative Reviews
Remote location / uphill walk to town
Several reviewers noted the ryokan is a fair distance from Yufuin town (up to ~30 minutes on foot or uphill), which can be inconvenient if you prefer to walk; however, the property does offer pick-up/drop-off by car on request.
Meal quantity and pacing issues
While food quality is praised, some guests felt portions were overly generous and the pace of service rushed; a few mentioned short meal times and servers hurrying to finish, which reduced enjoyment for some.
Small or awkward bathing areas and booking hassles
A number of reviews mentioned the indoor annex hotbath being small or too hot. The family onsen lacked a clear booking system (requiring guests to check whether it was free), which some found inconvenient or disappointing.
Less traditional / modern feel for some expectations
A few guests felt the property’s newer, modern elements made it less authentically 'ryokan' compared with older traditional establishments, reducing the traditional atmosphere for those seeking that experience.
Minor room decor or bedding issues
Some reviewers mentioned small negatives such as thin futon bedding in certain rooms or furniture/decor that could use aesthetic updates, though these were generally framed as minor compared with overall satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary: many rooms are Japanese-style with futon sleeping and accommodate 2 guests, while some annex rooms and suites sleep up to 4 or more; check the specific room type when booking for exact capacity.
Yes — the property offers public indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, and most detached rooms include private open-air and indoor baths; a family/private onsen can also be reserved subject to availability.
A free shuttle runs to and from JR Yufuin Station (short ride); for airport arrivals you should travel to Yufuin Station by train or bus and then use the ryokan shuttle.
Travel to JR Yufuin Station by limited‑express train or airport bus from Oita or Fukuoka, then use the ryokan’s free shuttle or a short taxi ride to the property.
Staff provide service in Japanese and can assist in English; they are accustomed to international guests and can help with basic English requests.
Check‑in is from 15:00 (guests are asked to inform the ryokan of arrival time) and check‑out is by 10:30; note you should arrive by the listed dinner cutoff (around 17:30) if you plan to eat at the ryokan.
Small dogs are permitted in designated pet‑friendly rooms (restrictions apply, such as weight limits and rules for shared areas); inform the ryokan in advance if you plan to travel with a pet.
The ryokan serves a traditional multi‑course kaiseki dinner and Japanese breakfast using local ingredients; please advise dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so the kitchen can accommodate them where possible.
The property sits on a hill above Yufuin with panoramic views; nearby highlights include Lake Kinrinko, the Yufuin museum area and local craft shops, while the town center is a short shuttle or taxi ride away (walking is uphill and takes longer).
Private/family onsen use is offered but may require checking availability on arrival or advance request; for groceries, shops and many restaurants are concentrated in Yufuin town and are reachable by the shuttle or a short drive.