Fujiya
9,4/10 Exceptional - Based on 85 reviews
Fujiya sits quietly in the heart of the Kurokawa hot-spring neighborhood, offering an intimate, wood-accented ryokan with onsen in Kurokawa, Kumamoto. The property comprises a small number of traditionally styled rooms that blend tatami and low-profile furnishings with modern conveniences; several rooms open toward the river or green slopes, and each room is presented with the deliberate simplicity and seasonal touches typical of the area. The atmosphere leans toward relaxed hospitality rather than formality, making it well suited to travelers seeking an authentic, understated ryokan experience in a compact, walkable hot-spring village.
Bathing facilities center on Kurokawa’s mineral-rich thermal waters: guests have access to a public hot-spring bath and a family-style private bath option, allowing for both communal and secluded bathing according to preference. Onsen use follows local etiquette and the property participates in the area’s cooperative bath-hopping culture, so it’s straightforward to combine an overnight stay here with visits to other nearby baths. Care is taken to maintain clear changing and bathing areas, and private-bath bookings are possible for guests who want a quieter, more intimate soak; this combination positions Fujiya as a compact ryokan with private onsen Kumamoto visitors appreciate for flexibility.
Practical conveniences are straightforward and dependable: rooms typically include climate control, a TV, kettle and basic toiletries, while the ryokan offers luggage service, free on-site parking and Wi‑Fi. Dinner is usually available when reserved with the room and emphasizes regional ingredients prepared in a seasonally aware style; guests checking in later in the evening should confirm meal arrangements in advance. With its central location in the Kurokawa quarter, the inn makes a convenient base for exploring local trails, onsen streets and broader Aso-region attractions while returning each evening to a calm, restorative hot-spring stay.
Highlights of this ryokan
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Review summary for: Fujiya
Positive Reviews
Friendly, attentive staff
Many reviewers praised the staff for being kind, polite and helpful — assisting with luggage, explaining details in English when possible and providing attentive service throughout the stay.
Traditional, charming building and riverside location
Guests repeatedly mentioned the ryokan's old‑world charm, attractive traditional décor and excellent location right by the river/creek with pleasant views from rooms and balconies.
Excellent food and dining experience
Numerous comments highlight delicious, plentiful meals — especially the breakfasts and multi‑course dinners — and a memorable, traditional dining setup that felt special.
Good onsen options and relaxing baths
Reviewers appreciated the onsen experience, including private family baths and access to outdoor baths nearby; baths were described as nostalgic, relaxing and not overcrowded.
Cozy, comfortable rooms with nice views
Many guests found the rooms comfortable and cosy, noting comfortable futons/beds, well‑decorated interiors and rooms with pleasant river views that enhanced the stay.
Negative Reviews
Not suitable for those wanting modern facilities
Several guests warned that the ryokan is intentionally traditional and may lack modern conveniences; travellers expecting contemporary facilities could be disappointed.
Noise and thin walls in places
A number of reviews reported noise issues — from footsteps above, nearby guests, or an external generator for some rooms — which disturbed sleep for some visitors.
Some rooms are small or have awkward layouts
Certain room types (split‑level rooms, four‑person rooms or budget single rooms) were described as tight, low in headroom or cramped, and some lack good views.
Language and occasional service inconsistencies
While many staff were praised, a few reviewers noted limited English from some team members and occasional lapses in hospitality or pre‑arrival communication compared with other local ryokans.
Dinner availability and off‑site open‑air bath arrangements
A few guests experienced days when in‑house dinner service was unavailable, and the open‑air rotenburo is sometimes at a nearby ryokan (small and without showers), which surprised or inconvenienced some visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacities vary by type; some Japanese-style rooms sleep up to four on futons while others are for two; children cannot stay and there are no cots or extra beds.
Yes — the ryokan offers hot spring bathing with gender-separated public baths and onsen facilities for guests.
Some room types and private-bath options are offered, but availability is limited so please request or confirm a private or in-room bath when you book.
No, pets are not permitted on the premises.
There is no regular public airport shuttle; guests normally use taxis, car rental or local buses, and the property can advise or help arrange pick-up if contacted in advance.
Kumamoto Airport is approximately 55 km away; most guests travel by rental car or taxi (free on-site parking is available), or use a combination of regional buses and taxis to reach the ryokan.
Japanese is the primary language; staff generally provide basic English assistance and will try to help international guests when possible.
Yes — the ryokan serves traditional meals on site, and dinner must be booked as part of a plan in advance if you wish to dine there.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out is by 11:00; guests must notify the ryokan of arrival time and check in by 18:00 if they expect to have dinner, as late arrivals may affect meal service or bookings.
Fujiya sits in the Kurokawa Onsen area with easy access to local hot-spring walking routes; Mount Aso is about 40 km away and Kinrin (Kinrinko) Lake about 48 km, while dining options in the village are limited so plan ahead for meals and supplies.