Ukiha
8,2/10 Excellent - Based on 74 reviews
Ukiha (瀬音・湯音の宿 浮羽) is a traditional Japanese inn set in the Amagase hot-spring district of Hita, offering a quietly paced stay that emphasizes tatami rooms and simple, service-oriented hospitality. The property presents a mix of classic guest rooms with tatami flooring and practical amenities such as air conditioning, refrigerator and in-room safes, together with shared spaces that open onto mountain and river views. Positioned in a small onsen community, it functions as a ryokan with onsen in Amagase, Hita and suits travellers seeking an authentic, regionally grounded stay rather than urban convenience.
The bathing facilities are a focal point: guests can use a public bathing area and an open-air bath, and the property provides reservable family/private baths for those who prefer a quieter experience. The inn draws on multiple on-site springs to supply the pools, and water is offered with a steady, non-circulated flow typical of traditional kakenagashi practice. Bathing hours and the availability of private baths are scheduled, and the layout intentionally separates larger communal baths from the smaller reservable units so visitors can choose between a social or private bathing rhythm. This ryokan with onsen in Ōita Prefecture balances communal onsen culture with options for privacy.
Meals are served as seasonally structured dinners and breakfasts that highlight local produce, river fish and regional mountain ingredients, often presented in private dining spaces or in-room service where available. Practical conveniences include free on-site parking, complimentary Wi‑Fi and a property shuttle service; check-in is offered in the mid‑afternoon with check-out in the morning. Staff focus on attentive, low-key hospitality, and the setting makes the inn a suitable base for exploring the Amagase hot-spring area and nearby rural attractions in Ōita.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ukiha
Positive Reviews
Delicious, generous meals
Many guests praised the dinner and breakfast as high quality and satisfying, often served in private dining areas; several specifically noted memorable local ingredients and friendly, attentive service during meals.
Warm, attentive staff
Reviewers frequently highlighted helpful, welcoming staff whose service made stays feel personal and comfortable — guests appreciated attentive reception, assistance when lost, and courteous meal service.
Authentic traditional atmosphere
The ryokan’s antique, traditional charm and well‑kept vintage decor were repeatedly enjoyed; guests valued the classic Japanese onsen experience and the calming lobby ambience.
Relaxing onsen and baths
Many found the hot springs and open‑air baths pleasant and restorative; guests liked the overall bathing facilities and the opportunity to unwind after visiting nearby natural sites.
Spacious, clean tatami rooms and good value
Tatami rooms were described as spacious, clean and offering nice views (mountains/river). Several visitors mentioned free parking and that the overall stay represented good value for the price.
Negative Reviews
Confusing location and mapping issues
Multiple guests reported problems with online maps or GPS pointing to another similarly named property or a different town; reviewers recommended clearer address details on booking pages to avoid being misdirected.
Remote / long walk from station
The property is in a rural location; some guests noted a fairly long walk from the train station and limited nearby shops, which can be inconvenient without a car.
Aged facilities and maintenance concerns
Several reviews mentioned older fixtures (toilets, beds, machinery) and issues such as air‑conditioner or room odors and small/private onsen size — suggesting some parts feel dated or need upkeep.
Temperature and comfort/noise issues
A few guests experienced uncomfortable temperatures (cold rooms or bathing areas, or overly warm in‑room AC) and some were disturbed by external noises such as train sounds or loud river flow affecting sleep.
Limited in‑room amenities and drink variety
Some visitors would like more in‑room entertainment options (streaming/YouTube) and a wider selection of alcoholic beverages; a few also noted portion/texture preferences for certain dishes (e.g., rice).
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms include traditional Japanese and mixed-style layouts that accommodate couples, families or groups; some room types sleep up to five guests. No extra rollaway beds or baby cots are available, so please select a room that fits your party size when booking.
Yes — the property offers source-flowing hot-spring facilities including a large indoor bath, an open-air garden (rotenburo) and other feature baths. Public baths are available for regular use by guests.
Yes — private (family) baths are offered and can be reserved in advance through the ryokan or at reception. They are suitable for couples or small groups who want a private bathing time.
A free shuttle service is available from JR Amagase Station; guests should request pickup in advance and provide their train arrival details. Amagase is an easy short walk or a very short drive from the ryokan.
The nearest major airport mentioned is Kumamoto Airport (around 73 km). From the airport take public transport or car toward Hita/Amagase, then the JR line to Amagase Station and the ryokan shuttle or a short taxi for the final leg.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; Korean-speaking staff are sometimes available and English support is limited. Guests who need extra language help are advised to notify the ryokan in advance or use a translation app.
The ryokan serves seasonal Japanese meals (dinner and breakfast), often presented in private dining rooms or kotatsu-style seating, with an emphasis on local ingredients. Guests can request dietary needs in advance.
The ryokan is in the Amagase Onsen area with river and mountain scenery; nearby highlights include Hita city sights, local hiking and cultural sites, and Kinrinko Lake (about 39 km). It's a good base for countryside walks and regional sightseeing.
Use the JR Kyūdai Main Line to Amagase Station (roughly a 10–11 minute walk) or Hita Station (about 15 km away), then take the ryokan shuttle or a short taxi ride. Clear directions and shuttle arrangements are best confirmed with the ryokan before arrival.
Pets are not permitted at the property. There are small shops and convenience stores near Amagase Station, and larger supermarkets and services are available in Hita city for any additional supplies.