Sanso Tensui
9,8/10 Exceptional - Based on 194 reviews
Sanso Tensui sits tucked into a wooded slope above a river in Amagase, where a planted approach and quiet gardens set the tone for a measured, traditional stay. Rooms are laid out in refined Japanese style with tatami and futon options; a small set of newer “luxury” suites add inner baths and private open-air tubs framed to catch views of the nearby waterfall. The property balances a restrained, seasonal aesthetic with practical comforts, and its public areas are intentionally compact so the landscape remains the principal focus of the visit.
Bathing is the defining feature here: the ryokan operates multiple gender-separated outdoor baths and indoor pools alongside five reservable private baths that guests may use without extra formality, making it a strong ryokan with private onsen in Ōita for travellers seeking solitude. The water is drawn from the local Amagase hot-spring sources and several tubs are positioned to look out over the gorge and a small cascade, so quiet hours and the flow of the river shape the bathing experience. The inn also offers shuttle pickup from the nearby station and on-site parking to simplify arrival.
Meals emphasize local produce and seasonal presentation, with the option in some room categories of in-room kaiseki service that allows a leisurely rhythm after bathing. A modest lounge and shop provide post-bath refreshments and regional goods, and the staff maintain a paced, attentive service that supports relaxation rather than formality. For visitors exploring Kyushu’s onsen circuit, Sanso Tensui reads as a carefully calibrated ryokan with onsen in Ōita that foregrounds natural setting, multiple private bathing options and quiet, room-focused hospitality.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sanso Tensui
Positive Reviews
Exceptional service and attentive staff
Many reviews highlight extremely friendly, warm and helpful staff who go above and beyond (welcome at the station/parking, surprise upgrades, personalised meal adjustments), making stays feel memorable and effortless.
Outstanding food (kaiseki) and seasonal ingredients
Guests consistently praise the dinner and breakfast—beautiful presentation, delicious traditional kaiseki courses and use of seasonal local produce that elevated the overall experience.
Beautiful, tranquil location and nature views
The ryokan’s setting in nature, gardens, waterfalls and misty surroundings is repeatedly described as breathtaking and peaceful, contributing strongly to the atmosphere and relaxation.
Excellent onsen facilities, including private baths
Reviews mention multiple public onsens and reservable private baths that are clean, scenic and magical; private in-room baths are particularly praised and valued by couples and families.
Well-maintained traditional rooms and thoughtful amenities
Rooms are described as spacious, tastefully decorated and clean; guests appreciated upgrades, private bath rooms with great views, and modern comforts within the traditional ryokan setting.
Negative Reviews
Location/access can be tricky
A few guests found the property hard to find on foot (around a 30-minute walk from the station); however, the hotel provides a free taxi/shuttle which mitigates this issue.
Limited onsen toiletries/aftercare products
Some reviewers noted the onsen areas have limited skin-care items (suggestions include adding body lotion dispensers or more cleansing options after baths).
Pricey for families
Several guests commented the ryokan is expensive for family stays, though most still felt the experience justified the cost.
External surroundings may seem modest at first
One review mentioned the community outside the property appears somewhat spare or in disrepair on arrival, creating a mild contrast with the exceptional experience once inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from small 2-person tatami rooms up to larger suites and a detached villa that sleep 4–8; many standard rooms accommodate 2–5 guests.
The property has multiple public baths, an open-air bath (Taki-kan-an) with views of Sakura Falls, and five guest-only private (family) baths.
Yes — the ryokan offers several private/family baths that guests can reserve, and some room types include a private open-air bath.
Yes — the ryokan provides complimentary pick-up from the nearest JR station (JR Amagase) and Booking notes free organised transport to/from the station.
Typical routes are by car or train to JR Amagase Station (the hotel offers station pick-up); from Fukuoka it is about a 1.5‑hour drive and other regional airports require onward train or car transfer.
Japanese is the primary language; staff can assist in English to varying degrees and the property provides some English information.
Expect traditional kaiseki multi-course meals using local ingredients, tatami rooms and yukata, and the option for in-room meals with higher-tier room types.
The ryokan overlooks the Amagase hot‑spring area with views of Sakura Falls; the surrounding Hita/Amagase area offers scenic river walks, local hot‑spring attractions and regional sightseeing.
Typical check‑in is in the mid‑afternoon and check‑out is late morning; sources list check‑in around 15:00–17:00 and check‑out roughly 08:30–11:00.
Pets are not permitted; there is free private parking on site; for groceries or larger stores guests will find small shops and supermarkets in Amagase or Hita town a short drive away.