Tenku Yubo Seikaiso
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 633 reviews
Tenku Yubo Seikaiso sits on Beppu’s waterfront and presents a focused, sea-facing ryokan experience centered on bathing and seasonal Japanese cuisine. Accommodation ranges from tatami-style sea-view rooms to western-style options, with several room types offering semi-open-air balconies and private hinoki tubs that look across the bay. A rooftop observatory branded “Tenku-Yubo” provides bookable charter open-air baths for panoramic views day or night, positioning the property as a ryokan with private onsen in Beppu.
Bath facilities combine a modest indoor public bath, a shoreline footbath and multiple private options: four rooftop open-air baths that can be reserved as kashikiri (charter) units, plus in-room semi-open-air baths finished in hinoki wood for a fragrant, private soak. All bathing areas draw from natural hot-spring sources and private rooms are equipped with essential toiletries and washlet toilets; the rooftop baths are noted for unobstructed views of Beppu Bay. These features make the property a practical ryokan with private onsen in Ōita for couples and small groups.
Dining emphasizes regional produce through multi-course kaiseki menus that often include Bungo beef and local seafood, served in dining areas or as set courses, with breakfast options provided. The ryokan also operates with some privacy-minded practices—such as optional self-service futon setup in certain rooms—while offering onsite conveniences like Wi‑Fi, parking and the ability to reserve private baths by time slot. Its central location keeps Beppu’s main attractions within easy reach, making it a convenient base for exploring the city’s onsen circuit.
Highlights of this ryokan
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Review summary for: Tenku Yubo Seikaiso
Positive Reviews
Spectacular sea views and sunrise
Many guests praised the hotel's location right on the ocean, noting fantastic bay and sunrise views from rooms, balconies and some onsen areas.
Delicious, well-presented meals
Reviewers repeatedly highlighted excellent breakfast and kaiseki-style dinners—beautiful presentation, variety and overall high quality.
Variety of onsen options and relaxing baths
Guests appreciated on-site bathing options: private outdoor onsen rentals, in-room onsen/foot baths with sea views, and enjoyable public baths for relaxation.
Attentive and helpful staff
Staff were described as very friendly, attentive and helpful (assisting with taxis and speaking good English), contributing strongly to a positive stay.
Spacious traditional rooms and comfortable bedding
Many reviewers liked the roomy tatami-style rooms, neat cleanliness in most rooms, comfortable ryokan mattresses and overall traditional decor.
Negative Reviews
Building and facilities feel dated
Several guests mentioned the hotel is somewhat old or tired-looking and could benefit from refurbishment (corridors and some public areas noted).
Onsen access, size and booking limits
Some reviewers found the men's bath underwhelming, private onsens a bit small for groups, and noted inconvenient booking rules (e.g. limited booking windows or morning-only reservations for private baths).
Meal accommodation and inconsistent satisfaction
Although meals are often praised, there were comments that the hotel did not proactively ask about allergies/intolerances, and a few guests found some dishes—especially breakfast—disappointing.
Maintenance and cleanliness issues in spots
A minority reported maintenance problems (a faucet not working, lack of a sink in some bathrooms) or areas that could be cleaner, indicating occasional inconsistencies in upkeep.
Operational inconveniences and extra charges
Guests reported practical annoyances such as only one room key provided, extra charges for certain items (e.g. juices), and the need to pre-book dinner or onsen slots which reduced flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are mainly Japanese-style and Western-style and typically accommodate two to three people; some rooms offer futons for flexible sleeping arrangements. Check the specific room description when booking for exact maximum occupancy.
The property has gender-separated public baths, semi open-air baths in some rooms, a rooftop footbath, and private open-air baths with sea views. Onsen etiquette is observed and bathing areas provide towels and basic toiletries.
Yes — there are four rooftop private baths that can be booked for timed, private use; reservations are made at check‑in or with the front desk. Availability is limited, so request it early during your stay.
The ryokan does not advertise a dedicated airport shuttle; Oita Airport is about a 40‑minute drive or bus trip to Beppu. Guests commonly use airport buses or taxis to reach Beppu and then walk or take local transport to the ryokan.
The ryokan is within walking distance of JR Beppu Station (around a 10‑minute walk) and a short walk from Beppu Kitahama bus stop (a few minutes). Local buses and trains connect Beppu with regional sights and Oita Airport.
The official information and reservation pages are available in English, and staff offer basic English assistance; for specific language needs please contact the ryokan in advance. Telephone reception hours are listed around late morning to evening, so call ahead for special requests.
Check‑in is available from 3:00 PM; check‑out is in the morning — please confirm exact check‑out time on your booking confirmation. The ryokan can hold luggage before check‑in and after check‑out on request.
The on‑site restaurant serves a Japanese breakfast and a selection of Japanese and fresh seafood dishes for dinner; traditional kaiseki multi‑course dinners are available on request. Dining formats may be communal or served in a dining room depending on your booking.
Pets are generally not accepted; contact the ryokan in advance if you must bring a service or assistance animal. Private dining and private onsen options can be arranged by request, and convenience stores and supermarkets are within walking distance for basic supplies.
The ryokan is a convenient base for exploring Beppu’s hot‑spring areas and local attractions, with restaurants and shops within easy walking distance. Regional buses and JR trains provide access to popular sites, so plan day trips from the ryokan using Beppu Station or nearby bus stops.