Yufuin Inakamura Inakaso
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 27 reviews
Yufuin Inakamura Inakaso is a compact, family-run ryokan set on the slopes above the town of Yufuin, offering straightforward, traditionally styled rooms that emphasize mountain views and a calm, rural setting. The property maintains a small scale with limited daily guests, which helps preserve quiet evenings and clear views of the surrounding hills; communal spaces are modest and focused on comfort rather than luxury. Practical amenities include on-site dining, complimentary parking and air-conditioned rooms, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions such as the lake and local museums.
The accommodation is noted for its hot-spring facilities, operated principally as private, reservable baths rather than large communal halls, so guests who seek seclusion can book a family or couple session; this setup is characteristic of some countryside inns in the area and suits those prioritizing privacy. Meals are served on-site in a simple Japanese style and many guest reports highlight warm hospitality and attentive staff; reviewers also note the onsen temperatures can run hot and that staff guidance on use is helpful. This property functions effectively as a ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin.
For planning, the ryokan generally opens check-in in the mid-afternoon and asks guests to depart by mid-morning; arrivals are easiest by taxi from the town center and there is room for private car parking for guests who prefer driving. The location’s rural quiet and proximity to walking trails and small cultural sites make it a practical choice for travelers seeking an unpretentious hot-spring stay rather than an urban resort; in short, it presents a straightforward ryokan with private onsen in Ōita prefecture suited to visitors who value privacy and local atmosphere.
Highlights of this ryokan
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Review summary for: Yufuin Inakamura Inakaso
Positive Reviews
Authentic traditional ryokan and onsen
Multiple guests praised the ryokan's traditional, rustic atmosphere and its beautiful semi-outdoor/private onsen set on the hillside, offering a very authentic hot-spring experience.
Private onsen with great views
Reviewers liked that the onsen can be used privately or reserved, often noting lovely mountain views, fresh air and a peaceful setting while bathing.
Very kind and welcoming host
Many comments highlighted the owner/hostess as extremely friendly, helpful and accommodating, contributing strongly to guests’ positive experiences.
Excellent, plentiful meals
Dinners (including yakiniku/BBQ and local dishes) and breakfasts were frequently described as tasty and generous, making meals a standout feature.
Quiet location, clean and spacious rooms
Guests appreciated the peaceful, nature-surrounded setting, clean and roomy accommodations with good vistas and comfortable facilities.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and transport difficulties
Several guests reported the property is far from Yufuin center/station, with long uphill/downhill walks, few buses, limited taxi availability and recommended arranging transfers in advance.
Onsen temperature and usability issues
Some reviewers found the onsen water very hot or variable in temperature and said there was no clear explanation on how to adjust/cool it down.
Limited connectivity and modern conveniences
Multiple guests noted there is no Wi‑Fi and poor mobile data reception in rooms; the property is described as basic with minimal modern amenities.
Occasional kitchen/service limitations
A few visitors reported the kitchen or local restaurant was closed during their stay or that meal options/portions were not flexible (very large portions), which was inconvenient for some.
Accessibility and basic facilities
Some found the building basic or drafty (older tatami rooms), stairs to upper floors difficult for guests with mobility issues, and payment options limited (cash preferred), reducing convenience for certain travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most published room types accommodate up to three guests (three futons). Extra beds are not available and children aged 6 and over are accepted.
The property has a hot spring with a semi-open-air bath; guests report the onsen can be used privately by reservation with the host. Ask at check-in to reserve private use.
The property may offer pick-up from Yufuin Station on request, so contact the ryokan in advance to arrange transfer; there is no guaranteed regular airport shuttle listed. From Oita Airport and other hubs, public buses or trains to Yufuin Station are the usual options.
The closest airport is Oita (about 45–55 km); many guests take the limousine bus or train to Yufuin Station and then a short taxi or arranged transfer to the ryokan. Travel times vary by route, so allow around 1–2 hours from regional airports.
Staff are primarily Japanese and English may be limited; several reviews advise using a translation app or simple Japanese phrases for smoother communication.
This is a small, family-run ryokan offering a traditional, home-style Japanese stay with Japanese lunch and dinner served on site; meals are described as generous and locally influenced. The atmosphere is rustic and personal rather than hotel-like.
The ryokan is close to Yufuin highlights such as Lake Kinrin, Yufuin Showakan (museums) and various shops along Yunotsubo-dori, all within a short drive or a moderate walk. Mount Yufu and local art museums are also popular nearby sights.
The property is in a quieter hillside area roughly a 15–20 minute walk from the main Yufuin area; taxis are quick (around 5–10 minutes) and local buses are limited. If arriving by train, plan a short taxi or arranged pick-up from Yufuin Station.
Standard check-in hours are 15:00–18:00 and check-out is by 10:00 (some listings show a check-out window starting at 07:00). If you expect to arrive late or need dinner served, notify the ryokan in advance as late arrivals may prevent evening meals being provided.
Private onsen use can usually be arranged with the host, but pets are not permitted on the property. There are shops and convenience stores in central Yufuin, but the immediate area around the ryokan is quiet and has limited nearby supermarkets.