Minshuku Shiroyama
8,3/10 Excellent - Based on 17 reviews
Minshuku Shiroyama is a small countryside guesthouse set on the slopes of the Kuju range near Kuju Flower Park in Ōita Prefecture. The property combines traditional Japanese-style rooms with futon bedding and a renovated western-style twin room; some room types are described with private bathrooms while other listings note shared facilities. Meals are served by reservation as multi-course local menus using regional ingredients. Public areas include a sitting room and a garden that opens onto mountain views, offering a quiet base for hikes and flower displays.
The property operates a natural hot spring (gensen kakenagashi) with an indoor thermal bath and an outdoor open-air bath; the bathing facilities are used by guests and occasionally by locals, so use may be communal rather than private. If you are searching for a ryokan with onsen in Ōita, this minshuku provides a straightforward, source-fed hot spring experience rather than in-room private baths. Guests report the water flows directly from the source and draws visitors for a soak after outdoor activities.
Practical details and guest reports note free on-site parking, basic free Wi‑Fi in some rooms, and staff who primarily speak Japanese; a local bus stop lies within a short walk and provides a limited connection to Taketa station. The property functions as a low-key, locally focused accommodation useful as a base for the Kuju mountains, nearby Nagayu and Lamune hot-spring areas, and Kuju Flower Park. Guests are advised to confirm meal and bathing times in advance when reserving.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Minshuku Shiroyama
Positive Reviews
Generous, high-quality meals
Multiple guests praised breakfast and dinner for large portions, varied courses and local specialties; several reviews highlighted excellent taste and substantial servings.
Warm, helpful hosts and service
Hosts were described as polite, friendly and very helpful (e.g., accommodating late arrivals and preparing takeaway onigiri), creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Clean, comfortable and thoughtfully designed rooms
Visitors noted rooms were clean, spacious and some recently renovated with considerate design details that enhanced comfort.
Relaxing onsen (indoor and outdoor)
Many guests enjoyed the hot spring facilities — the indoor and outdoor baths were found relaxing and well maintained, with several specifically appreciating the outdoor section.
Peaceful rural setting with useful guest amenities
The property’s quiet countryside location was valued for its tranquillity; guests also appreciated conveniences like free tea/coffee, private dining rooms, and proximity to a bus stop (despite limited schedules).
Negative Reviews
Remote location and limited transport
Several reviewers warned the ryokan is in a rural area with infrequent public transport (about two buses a day) and difficulty arranging taxis, making a car preferable for flexible travel.
Limited nearby dining options
Because the property is outside town, on-site meals are effectively the main option; guests noted few alternatives for eating locally.
Outdoor onsen temperature inconsistency
A few guests reported the outdoor hot spring was not hot enough or a bit cool, so bathing comfort may vary.
Shared/common toilet facilities
At least one review mentioned that toilets are communal rather than en-suite, which may be inconvenient for some visitors.
Occasional noise from neighbouring rooms
One guest reported being disturbed by a neighbouring room’s alarm in the morning, indicating some potential for noise transmission between rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms accommodate 2–4 guests depending on the room type (twin, triple, quadruple); children are not permitted and no extra beds are available.
Yes — the property has a natural hot spring with indoor and outdoor baths that are shared by guests.
The property advertises public (shared) baths; private or reservable baths are not listed, so contact the host directly to ask about private-use options.
The nearest major airport noted is Kumamoto (around 67 km); typical access is by train to Taketa station followed by a local bus or taxi for the final leg.
There’s no regular hotel shuttle; a local bus stop is within a short walk with limited daily services to Taketa station and taxis are available for more flexible transfer times.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; English is limited, so a translation app or simple Japanese phrases can be helpful.
Check-in is between 15:00 and 18:00, and check-out is between 07:00 and 10:00.
Pets are not permitted on the property.
Meals (traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner) are offered by prior reservation as a half-board option; please request meals when booking your room.
The ryokan is a good base for the Kuju mountains and Kuju Flower Park, local farms and scenic drives, with day-trip options to Beppu and Mount Aso for hiking and onsen visits.