Beppu Showaen
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 410 reviews
Beppu Showaen occupies a landscaped estate of gardens and streams where nine detached, single‑house guest buildings are set apart to maximize privacy and quiet. The property presents itself as a ryokan with onsen in Beppu, Ōita, offering a mix of indoor hinoki baths and carved rock open‑air baths embedded into each cottage’s layout so guests can soak while overlooking garden features. Grounds and room layouts emphasize traditional materials and a restrained aesthetic: tatami flooring, low tables with zabuton cushions and sliding screens create a calm, domestic atmosphere rather than a standard hotel corridor experience.
Accommodation is intentionally house‑like: rooms are arranged as standalone units with traditional futon bedding, a small refrigerator, flat‑screen TV and an electric kettle with Japanese teas; many cottages include an in‑room hot spring bath while others open onto private outdoor baths. The onsen water is drawn from a local source described on site for its skin‑softening properties, and guests may reserve a larger communal hot spring for exclusive use at check‑in, an option that underlines its appeal as a ryokan with private onsen in Ōita for those seeking solitude. Amenities include gender‑specific toiletries, complimentary green tea in the lobby and options for in‑room massages.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Beppu Showaen
Positive Reviews
Very friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviewers praised the warm, helpful and welcoming staff — from reception and servers to owners who offered station transfers and personalized service, making guests feel cared for.
Excellent meals (kaiseki) and breakfast
Many guests highlighted high-quality, beautifully presented kaiseki dinners and very good traditional Japanese breakfasts; several called the food a trip highlight.
Outstanding onsen facilities (private & public)
Guests enjoyed spacious private in-room onsens, reservable family/private baths and large public baths; the onsen experience was frequently described as relaxing and authentic.
Beautiful, tranquil setting and gardens
The property’s gardens, stone steps, koi pond, waterfall and mountainside location create a peaceful, scenic atmosphere; guests appreciated the serenity and natural surroundings (some even saw monkeys on the grounds).
Spacious, authentic traditional rooms and comfort
Reviewers liked the well‑maintained traditional rooms with tatami, roomy baths, comfortable futons and generally spacious, characterful accommodations that felt authentic.
Negative Reviews
Some areas feel dated and need renovation
Several reviews noted worn or slightly old‑fashioned decor and equipment, suggesting parts of the property could benefit from refreshing or renovation.
Remote location and access
Multiple guests mentioned the hotel is set a bit away from main tourist spots; it can be a 20–25 minute uphill walk from the station and taxis were not always visible (although staff sometimes provide transfers).
Occasionally worn furniture or fixtures
Some reviewers observed tired or worn furniture and fixtures in rooms or common areas, contributing to the impression of aging in places.
Mixed perceptions of meal value
While many celebrated the food, at least one guest felt the meals did not match the price, indicating occasional variability in perceived value.
Natural tub conditions and ambient sounds
A few guests reported minor onsen issues such as algae in tubs (likely natural mineral effects) and noted nighttime sounds (river/waterfall, insects) that sensitive sleepers might find noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Occupancy varies by room type; options range from small 2-person villas to larger detached rooms that sleep up to 4 guests using futons or beds. Check the room description when booking for exact capacity.
Yes — each detached room features its own natural hot-spring bath, either an indoor hinoki tub or an outdoor rock open-air onsen. Larger public baths are also available and can be reserved for private use at check-in.
Yes — the ryokan offers a complimentary shuttle from JR Beppu Station on request; please arrange it at least 24 hours before arrival.
By car, Oita Airport is about 50 minutes and Fukuoka Airport about 2 hours; the ryokan is roughly an 8-minute drive from JR Beppu Station. Take train or bus to Beppu Station and use the free shuttle or a taxi for the final leg.
Staff are highly rated for service and primarily speak Japanese; English support is limited but the team is accustomed to international guests. Contact the ryokan ahead if you require English assistance.
Traditional multi-course kaiseki meals using seasonal Oita ingredients are served, typically in your room by a private server (nakai). The ryokan can accommodate common dietary requests if informed in advance.
Rakutenchi amusement park is about a 3‑minute walk, and other local sights include Beppu Park, Umitamago Aquarium, and the Beppu "hells" thermal sites within short drives. The property’s setting also offers scenic views over Beppu and the sea.
Free on-site parking is provided for guests arriving by car, and taxis are readily accessible from Beppu Station. Local buses and the station shuttle are convenient for short trips.
Standard check-in is from 14:00 (final check-in 18:00) and check-out is by 10:00; you must notify the ryokan in advance of your expected arrival time. If you expect to arrive after 18:00, contact the property to confirm arrangements.
You can reserve the larger public bath for private use at check-in; pets are not permitted on the property. Convenience stores and supermarkets are located in Beppu city near the station for any supplies you need.