Ikkoten
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 133 reviews
Ikkoten is a compact, luxury ryokan set at the foot of the Yufu mountain range in Yufuin, offering ten detached cottages across landscaped grounds. Each cottage blends modern and traditional design and many feature semi-open-air baths fed directly from a natural alkaline spring, creating an intimate ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin experience framed by views of Mount Yufu. The property reserves just ten groups a day, so accommodations range from simple annex tatami suites to two larger villa types suited to families or small groups.
Rooms are furnished with tatami areas, large windows and thoughtful amenities; the two villa types measure about 158 m² and 122 m² respectively, while several annex rooms are smaller and more compact. On-site bathing includes in-room private baths, reservable family open-air baths with mountain vistas and a public outdoor bath, all supplied from the property’s natural hot spring known for its gentle, skin-softening alkaline water. Communal facilities include a light-filled lounge with terrace views, a courtyard garden that links the cottages, and a recently added dog run for guests travelling with pets.
Dining focuses on seasonal kaiseki prepared with local Ōita ingredients and served in carefully presented courses that reflect each season; staff can assist with nearby restaurant reservations and arrangements. Practical details: the ryokan is a short drive from JR Yufuin Station and the Yufuin interchange, offers limited complimentary parking, free Wi‑Fi in common areas, and a typical mid-afternoon check-in with late-morning check-out. For travelers seeking a discreet and restorative stay, Ikkoten presents itself as a ryokan with private onsen Ōita that emphasizes privacy, attentive service and the surrounding scenery.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ikkoten
Positive Reviews
Attentive, helpful staff (good English)
Multiple reviews praise polite, hardworking staff who provide excellent service, assist with reservations, accommodate dietary requests, and communicate well in English — contributing strongly to guests’ positive experience.
Private onsen and family-bath options
Guests repeatedly highlight private indoor/outdoor baths in the rooms and a reservable family onsen; families appreciated privacy and the ability for children to enjoy the hot springs safely.
Beautiful, tranquil location and views
The ryokan is described as secluded and picturesque, surrounded by forest and mountains with views of Mt. Yufu; many reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere and changing seasonal scenery.
High-quality, well-presented meals (kaiseki)
Numerous guests rave about the food — multi-course kaiseki dinners and breakfasts were called delicious, beautifully presented and memorable, with several noting generous portions and accommodating chefs.
Charming property and thoughtful amenities
Reviewers appreciate the resort’s character (private houses, gardens), useful amenities such as samue/geta/slippers, complimentary beverages and toiletries, plus extras like a library, bar and small thoughtful touches that enhance the stay.
Negative Reviews
Noise and thin walls / roadside rooms can be loud
Some guests reported very thin walls between houses and rooms located near the driveway, hearing traffic and outside noise that disturbed the expected tranquility.
Value concerns — price vs. perceived service/quality
A few reviewers felt the stay was expensive for the level of service or room condition they received, expressing disappointment relative to expectations at this price point.
Inconsistent food experience for some guests
While many praised the cuisine, others found the food underwhelming or of lesser quality/taste than expected; a small number also mentioned portion sizes being too small or overwhelming multi-course meals for some family members.
Accessibility and room layout issues
Traditional house layouts and villas with multiple floors or tight bedrooms were noted as difficult for guests with mobility issues or elderly family members; some rooms felt cramped for three people.
Limited transport support and taxi availability/costs
Several guests noted there is no pick-up/drop-off service, taxis in the area are scarce, and drivers or transfers to the airport could be very expensive, making access less convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms typically accommodate 2–4 guests; many annex rooms combine beds and futons and there are family-room options for larger groups.
Yes — the property uses natural hot spring water and offers public indoor and open-air baths; several rooms and detached villas also include private onsen or family baths.
There is no regular airport shuttle; most guests arrive by taxi from Yufuin Station or arrange a private transfer, and the ryokan can assist with arrangements on request.
Staff commonly speak some English and regularly assist international guests; please notify the ryokan in advance if you need specific language support.
A traditional ryokan atmosphere with tatami and detached annex rooms, mountain views, kaiseki-style meals featuring local Oita ingredients, and onsen bathing.
The ryokan is close to Yufuin town and its shops, Kinrinko Lake and scenic views of Mt. Yufu, making it a good base for short walks and local sightseeing.
Ikkoten is about 2.5–3 km from Yufuin Station (roughly a 10–15 minute taxi ride) and approximately 50–55 km from Oita Airport; a car or taxi is the most convenient option.
Standard check-in is from 15:00 to 17:00 and check-out is by 11:00; contact the ryokan ahead of arrival if you need to request different times.
Private and family baths are available and many rooms feature their own onsen; pets are allowed with advance notice, so inform the ryokan when booking.
Meals are served on-site (multi-course kaiseki dinner and breakfast) with options for special diets if requested; convenience stores and town shops in Yufuin are a short drive away for other supplies.